7 subtle signs your teen’s struggling with mental health (but might not even know it)
Teens, these days, juggle a lot in their lives including school, part time jobs, social engagements, sports, and other activities. As a teen’s parent, teacher, coach, or other significant adult, you realize that what you see and hear from teens may not reveal the full story of what is happening in their lives and how they feel about it. So how can you recognize signs of mental health struggles versus regular teen behavior?
Questions answered in this article:
- What are the subtle signs I can look out for in my teen?
- When should you be worried about a lack of motivation?
- What can I do to help them feel better?
On and under the surface
Teens can be open, guarded, or private in what they communicate, especially to adults. At times, they seem accessible. Some may even over-share. While at other moments, a good part of what they’re thinking or feeling stays inside. In fact, parents, teachers, coaches, tutors, and caregivers—those that see the teens consistently–must be keen observers who link words, behaviors, and actions to know what’s really going on with teenage kids’ mental health. In the case of teens, what you see and hear on the outside may not always be an accurate window to what’s happening on the inside.
7 teen behaviors that may signal your teen needs an assist
Because teens don’t always communicate their feelings directly, changes in their behavior can provide tips that they might need help. While you want to respect your teen’s privacy, you need to figure out if your teen is getting what they need, and you want to be familiar with the signs young adults may show when they’re struggling with their mental health.
- Changes in eating
If you realize your teen is eating more or less than their norm or ignoring meals altogether, this can signal a change in their mental health. You may notice they’re now skipping breakfast or not joining family members for meals. - Fluctuations in sleeping habits
A change in your teen’s sleeping habits can signal anxiety. However, as they age, teens naturally experience a change in circadian rhythms which encourages them to stay up later. Their bodies tell them to go to sleep around 10:00 to 11:00 p.m., about two hours later than when they were younger.
- A shift in socializing
Either no longer spending time with their friends, or now hanging out with friends they didn’t previously, can be a sign that something is changing with your teen. You should consider if they are with friends who are a good influence or support system. If you notice your teen becoming less social, more withdrawn, or isolated, this can signal depression or another issue that needs your involvement. - Lack of motivation
Sometimes lack of motivation and “laziness” get fused when we’re observing others. Asking questions about why teens aren’t meeting their responsibilities or doing the things they used to enjoy may reveal that they’re struggling with feeling motivated or having a purpose. Try a light touch and offer to help them.
If you notice that they are skipping hygiene basics like showering, brushing teeth, and changing clothes, this can be a sign they are having larger issues than getting their day going or just getting through it. - Risky behavior
Signs that your teen may need help include a rise in risky behavior. It’s not uncommon for teens to experiment with substances like alcohol or marijuana. If their use ramps up, is preferred over other activities, is relied upon to go to sleep, or somehow results in negative outcomes, your teen could be choosing substances to help cope with mental health issues.
- Increased negative feelings
When teens experience anxiety, worry, agitation, anger, aggression, or other “bad” emotions, they often can’t explain how or why they feel these. They also may not be aware that sadness and shame often get expressed as anger. If their feelings become more constant or invasive, help them find resources and learn strategies to deal with their deeper feelings. - Declining school performance
Changes such as not being able to focus on learning, missing classes or deadlines, and getting lower grades can signal that a teen is struggling with mental health. Encourage them to get help so they can start feeling better.
Other risky behaviors like speeding while driving, driving while intoxicated, running away, or meeting with strangers via social media means it’s time to get them help.
Approaching your teen with your concerns can be tough. Remember that caring for our mental health is as important as caring for our bodies. As you talk, it can be easy for both parties to be misunderstood. Be genuine, ask open-ended questions, and give your teen time to think. Recognize that time for silence can be part of the conversation.
We’ll help you and your teen through this
Don’t wait for things to get worse (nothing’s easier in crisis mode.) Your mental health is just as important as theirs so give us a call and see just how good it can get. Contact us to book your consultation.
Here’s what you can expect from your sign up process:
- You’ll call in, and our admissions team will help you schedule the initial consultation within 48 hours
- During the in-person or virtual consultation, one of our therapists will help determine which program (or trusted partner) will be the best fit for your situation
- You’ll show up to your first session (probably a little freaked out, and that’s totally fine), listen to others’ stories, and start gaining tools you can apply that same day
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We’re rooting for you!
Sanare Today is a mental health provider offering IOP, PHP, and outpatient therapy programs for adults dealing with childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. We offer therapy in Philadelphia, PA; Wilmington, DE; Raleigh, NC and beyond. Get in touch with us here!