Teen mental health is a critical issue that impacts countless young lives. In today’s fast-paced and pressure-filled world, it’s more important than ever for parents, educators, and caregivers to understand how to help teens with mental health issues effectively. By providing the right support and guidance, we can make a significant difference in promoting healthy emotional development during the adolescent years.
The most common mental health issues that affect teenagers are anxiety disorders, mood disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and eating disorders.
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, are the most prevalent mental health issues among adolescents, affecting one in eight teens at any given time. These disorders can significantly interfere with important areas of functioning such as school, work, and relationships with family and peers.
Teen mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, affect up to one in four adolescents by their late teenage years. Teen depression is more common in female adolescents than in male adolescents. Teens with mood disorders frequently self-medicate with alcohol and other substances and are at increased risk of suicidal behavior.
Approximately 1 in 20 adolescents meet the clinical criteria for ADHD. Teens with ADHD tend to be easily distracted, inattentive, and emotionally immature, leading to behavioral and educational problems. They also have an increased tendency for risk-taking behavior, including risky sexual behavior.
Other less common but significant mental health issues in teens include panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and autistic spectrum disorders.
Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for that may indicate a teen is struggling with mental health issues:
There are several ways parents, caregivers, and other adults can help support teen mental health:
1. Check-in
Check-in with your teen regularly. Ask how they’re feeling and what’s going on in their life. Pay attention to changes in their behavior.
2. Listen More
Listen more than you talk, and validate their feelings. Encourage them to keep talking by saying things like “Tell me more” or “I understand you feel left out”.
3. Help Your Teen Learn
Help your teen learn about and label their emotions. Encourage them to accept all emotions and come up with healthy coping strategies.
4. Model Healthy Habits
Model healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and managing stress. These habits are important for both physical and mental health.
5. Establish Routines
Establish routines and spend quality time together as a family, such as having regular meals or a weekly game night.
6. Limit Screen Time
Limit screen time and encourage creative activities like art, music, journaling, and spending time outdoors.
7. Help Build Friendships
Help your teen build friendships and community connections, which can provide a strong support system.
8. Know The Signs
Know the warning signs of mental health issues, such as persistent sadness, severe mood swings, sudden fears, irritability, trouble sleeping, or avoiding activities they used to enjoy.
9. Screen
If you notice warning signs consistently, consider having your teen screened for mental health issues. Free, anonymous screenings are available at MHAScreening.org.
10. Help Build Friendships
If a teen shows signs of being in a mental health crisis, such as talking about wanting to die, giving away prized possessions, or engaging in self-harm, get immediate help. Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Remove access to lethal means like firearms and pills.
There are various types of treatment available for teen mental health issues, depending on the specific disorder and its severity. Some common treatment approaches include:
Psychotherapy
Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy involves working with a mental health professional to address emotional and behavioral challenges. It can be done in individual, family, or group settings. Evidence-based psychotherapies for teens include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and interpersonal therapy (IPT).
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of mental health disorders. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and stimulants for ADHD are examples of commonly prescribed medications for teens. It’s important to work closely with a psychiatrist or other medical professional to monitor the effectiveness and potential side effects of any medication.
Family-based interventions
Family therapy and parent training can be effective in addressing mental health issues that impact the entire family. These interventions focus on improving communication, problem-solving skills, and family dynamics to create a supportive environment for the teen.
Residential treatment
In some cases, a teen may require more intensive treatment in a residential facility. These inpatient mental health programs provide 24-hour care and support, along with a structured environment for therapy and skill-building.
Complementary and alternative therapies
Some families may choose to incorporate complementary or alternative therapies, such as art therapy, music therapy, or mindfulness practices, into their teen’s treatment plan. While these approaches can be helpful for some individuals, it’s important to discuss their use with a mental health professional.
Join us in our adolescent inpatient mental health program and kickstart the journey to a happier, healthier self. Reach out today to chat with our team to get started. Let’s take this step together towards brighter days ahead.
It’s important to know when to seek professional help for a teen’s mental health issues. Consider consulting a mental health professional if:
Early intervention can prevent mental health issues from worsening and improve the chances of a positive outcome.
At Mission Prep, we understand the unique challenges teens face when dealing with mental health issues. Our inpatient mental health treatment programs in California and Virginia are designed to provide comprehensive, individualized care in a supportive and structured environment. By integrating various therapeutic modalities, educational support, and family involvement, we focus on promoting long-term recovery and well-being.
If your teen is struggling with mental health issues, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Mission Prep today to learn more about our adolescent mental health programs and how we can support your teen on their journey to recovery.
Find out if Mission Prep is right for you by reaching out to us and speaking with one of our admissions representatives.