While adolescence brings about its own set of challenges, it's essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues in teens. The Mental Health Commission of Canada recently revealed that a staggering 1.2 million children and youth in Canada experience mental health issues annually. Further emphasizing the urgency, a survey conducted by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) found that a third of Ontario secondary school students report moderate to severe psychological distress.
What Signs Might Suggest that a Teen is Struggling?
As parents or guardians, it's natural to encounter challenges in deciphering between normal adolescent behavior and potential mental health struggles. Adolescents undergo significant transitions during puberty, grappling with identity formation, social dynamics, and familial relationships. Yet, how do you tell the difference between typical teen behavior and potential red flags? A good starting point is keeping an eye out for:
Mood Swings: Sudden shifts in mood like irritability, anger, or sadness without an obvious cause. If these moods persist, it's time for a check-in. Keep an eye on their mood over the coming days and weeks.
Sleep Troubles: Difficulty falling or staying asleep might indicate your teen is struggling with overthinking, depression, or anxiety.
Changes in Eating Habits: Whether it's binge eating or a loss of appetite, shifts in eating patterns could be a sign your teen is struggling. Be sure to have an open conversation with them.
Loss of Interest: If they're withdrawing from activities they once loved or avoiding social interactions, it could be a red flag.
Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach-aches, or tension in the body could be physical manifestations of mental health challenges.
Academic Decline: Missing assignments or a drop in grades could signal they're having a tough time.
Suicidal Thoughts or Self-Harm: If they've expressed thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate professional help. It's crucial to prioritize their safety.
So your Teen is Showing Some Signs of a Mental Health Challenge, What's Your Next Step?
We encourage caregivers to initiate discussions about mental health early and frequently, regardless of whether their child or teen is currently facing difficulties. Normalizing these conversations helps teens feel comfortable turning to you when they need support. This dialogue becomes particularly crucial when you've noticed your teen seems to be struggling. Start by asking them how they're feeling, and keep the lines of communication open. Here are some ways to enhance your ability to listen attentively and respond empathetically:
Engage your teen with open-ended questions and truly listen to their responses. It's not just about hearing; it's about understanding what they're trying to express. Remember, their perception is their reality, and even if you may see things differently, their struggles are valid.
Avoid passing judgment or dismissing their concerns. Life can feel overwhelming for adolescents, and it's essential to acknowledge and validate their feelings.
Establish clear limits, boundaries, and expectations for your teen. Structure provides a sense of security and helps them understand the boundaries, even if they test them from time to time. Boundaries serve as a safety net for them to navigate the world.
Be available when they need someone to talk to, even if it means late-night conversations. It shows that you care and are invested in their well-being.Â
Encourage your teen to take on more responsibilities and make their own choices. Allow them to make mistakes and provide support as they learn and grow. Making mistakes is a natural part of life and essential for personal development.
Seeking Professional Help
Don't hesitate to reach out to your teen’s doctor for guidance. A proper evaluation can provide clarity on the situation and offer suitable next steps tailored to your teen and family's needs. With this knowledge, health-care providers can offer strategies and resources to support young people and caregivers. They will work with caregivers and teens directly to decide on the best approaches to addressing their mental health struggles. It is also important to let young people know of other services they can access for support, such as Kids Help Phone, which is available via text or phone 24/7.
A certified Youth Mental Health Specialist can also be a vital resource in your teen’s support network. At Eras Therapy and Wellness, we recognize the unique challenges that come from being a young person in today's society and prioritize helping your child or teen flourish through life's ups and downs. Whether it's grappling with anxiety, facing the unknowns of depression, wrestling with ADHD, or simply navigating the twists and turns of growing up, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. We are here to guide, support, and empower young minds to not just survive but to thrive.
We can help support young people with:
School & Academic issues
Bullying
ADHD
Anxiety
Social Anxiety
Depression
Sports and performance issues
Anger
Emotional Dysregulation
Friendship and relationship issues
Family problems
Self esteem issues
Body image and disordered eating
Traumatic experiences and trauma
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Learn more about Child and Teen Therapy
Eras Therapy and Wellness is an Ontario based virtual therapy practice for kids, teens and adults. We specialize in anxiety, adhd, self-esteem and trauma and offer psychotherapy as well as EMDR that is collaborative, empathetic and effective. If you are ready to heal from your past and feel hopeful for your future, book with Eras Therapy and Wellness HERE
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