Adolescence is a transitional stage from childhood to adulthood that takes place between the ages of 13-19. This is a time of many changes and challenges and a crucial time for mental, social and emotional well-being and development, yet half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, one in five adolescents has had a serious mental health disorder (such as anxiety or depression) at some point in their life and most cases go untreated and undetected. Not addressing adolescent mental health conditions can be life threatening (suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15-19 year olds) and can extend into adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to live a fulfilling life as an adult (World Health Organization).
There are many risk factors that can impact your adolescent’s mental health including:
Poor peer relationships/poor social skills, bullying, strained relationship with parents/family, traumatic childhood, physical/sexual/verbal abuse, death of a loved one, divorce/separation, family conflict, substance abuse, low self-esteem, parent with a mental health disorder, parental drug use, school failure and poverty .
Mood swings and wanting alone time are common during adolescent years, but crying easily or wanting to be alone all of the time is not. Below are signs to look for if you may be concerned for your child’s mental health:
- Social Withdrawal
- Trouble Concentrating
- Change in School Performance
- Isolation
- Loss of Interest in Activities
- Social Anxiety
- Low Self-Esteem/Negative Self-Talk
- Trouble Sleeping
- Crying Easily
- Bullying
- Substance Abuse
- Self-Harming Behaviors
- Sexual Risk Taking Behaviors
- Acting without regards to consequences/Aggressive Behaviors
- Addiction to Electronics
- Loss of Weight (Eating Disorders)
- Thoughts of Death or Suicide
- Unexplained Aches or Pains
What can parents do to ensure that their teen is healthy mentally? First, love and accept your child just the way they are. Talk to them, ask questions (listen, but don’t judge), acknowledge their accomplishments, get to know them, create a safe home environment and give them an outlet to express their feelings. Encourage regular exercise, eating a healthy balanced diet, getting enough sleep, limiting screen time and engaging is social activities/hobbies. Social engagement is important for adolescent mental health.
If your child continues to exhibit concerning behaviors, reach out to a mental health professional for help. You don’t have to go through difficult times on your own. Make mental health a priority. You can find me at www.wholeisticyou.com or reach me by email at hello@wholeisticyou.com