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Teens are one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to developing mental health problems. Their brains are extra sensitive—influenced by hormones, biological changes, and the social challenges of being a teen. Some of the most common mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety cause problems for teens in school, relationships, and the home.
Understanding how mental health affects teens is not only important for parents, but also for healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders. Recognizing the signs of mental health problems and how they impact their lives can help us create more effective strategies to support them.
The Current State of Mental Health in Teenagers
Teens today face the added pressure of growing up in a fast-paced world filled with technology, a culture of social media and hypersexualization as well as worries about the future of the economy & climate. Many teens struggle with anxiety related to their future, depression from COVID-related isolation, and inaccessible services in their community.
According to the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, about 1 in 5 teens suffer from at least one mental health disorder. These numbers may be even higher if we consider teens who are undiagnosed, hesitant to reach out for services or get support.
Causes of Teen Mental Health Problems
The causes of teen mental health problems can range from biological such as puberty or genetics, to environmental such as family instability or trauma. There are many factors that can trigger mental health disorders in teens. Some of the most common include:
- Trauma
- Genetics & family history of mental illness
- Abuse
- Hormones and puberty
- Low self-esteem
- Social media use
- Bullying, gossip, problems with peers
- School stress
- Drug or alcohol use
- Medical injury or chronic illness
Signs of Mental Illness in Teens
It’s important for adults to recognize signs of mental health problems in teens. Some common signs include:
- Sudden academic decline
- Social Isolation
- Rapid mood swings or aggressive outbursts
- Changes in sleep/appetite
- Tension, persistent worrying, racing thoughts
- Violence
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
- Negative self-esteem
- Shaking, sweating, or trembling
- Frequent stomach or headaches
- Substance abuse
- Self-harm behaviors
- Suicidal thoughts
How Mental Health Affects Teens
Mental health affects teens deeply and is just as important as caring for their physical health. Teens are a vulnerable demographic when it comes to developing mental health disorders due to the sensitive nature of their brains. Unresolved mental health problems in teens can cause problems in school, their future in the workplace, and relationships, increase the risk of substance abuse, and even lead to chronic disease.
In Their Family Setting
It’s normal for teens to be moody or go through episodes of shutting themselves away in their rooms. However, if you notice your teen has become extra isolated, and aggressive, or experiences more than the typical teenage mood swing they could be struggling with a mental health problem. If it feels like your teen is cutting off relationships with family and causing destruction in the home, there is most likely something going on more serious under the surface.
In Their School Setting
Unresolved mental health problems can largely impact the teenage academic journey. A sudden decrease in grades, frequent arguments with teachers, or problems with peers can all be a sign of an underlying mental health issue.
Most Common Mental Health Disorders in Teens
Teens can struggle with any of the same mental health disorders as adults, and many disorders begin to present during development. Some of the most common ones in teens include depression (20%), anxiety (31.8%), ADHD (10%), and Trauma (anywhere from 5-15%).
Depression | Hopelessness, sadness, fatigue, negative self-esteem, low mood, changes in sleep/appetite |
Anxiety | Tension, persistent worrying, sweating, trembling, increased heart rate or breathing, imagining worst-case-scenario situations |
ADHD | Inability to focus, may struggle in school, impulsive or reckless behavior |
Trauma | Flashbacks or nightmares, unexplained physical symptoms, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, heightened emotional reactivity. |
What Can We Do
It’s important for both parents and any adult in the community who works with teens to understand effective strategies for supporting them.
As Parents
Parents often know their teens the best and play a large role in shaping their mental health. Aim to create a safe & nurturing environment in the home where your teen can talk freely about their mental health.
If you are concerned about your teens’ well-being, reach out to your family doctor or the school counselor for mental health service recommendations. Some common treatments for teens include medication, CBT, or group therapy.
As A Community
Communities can increase programs that offer support for teens outside of school and the home. These may include peer mentor programs, activity-based programs, or events that promote identity exploration & growth.
Schools also fall under the community umbrella and play a large role in supporting the mental health of their students. Community leaders can consider funding schools to provide more mental health screenings, ensuring there are enough guidance counselors, and better health curriculums that cover the complexity of teen development & mental health.
When To Seek Professional Help
If you identify warning signs of a mental health problem in your teen, reach out for professional support to help find the best plan of treatment. At Clearfork Academy our team of compassionate, licensed therapists understands the complex nature of teenage mental health disorders. Reach out to our Admissions team to learn more.
Sources
Anxiety Disorders. National Institute of Mental Health.
Major Depression. National Institute of Mental Health.
Prevalence and Trends in Diagnosed ADHD Among US Children and Adolescents. National Library of Medicine.
PTSD in Teenagers. YouthOutreach Services.
Mike grew up on a dairy farm in Parker County, Texas. At the age of 59, he went back to college and graduated 41 years after his first graduation from Weatherford College. God placed on his heart at that time the passion to begin to help others as they walked from addictions, alcoholism, and abuse of substances. He is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and in the past few years he has worn many hats, from intake and assessment, group counseling, individual and family counseling, intensive outpatient and now he is working with clients, therapist, and families on discharge planning and aftercare. He also coordinates our Alumni Outreach Program.
