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As a parent, watching your child or teen suffer from mental health problems can be distressing. As the rates of mental health problems in teens continue to rise, many parents find themselves struggling with how to support their kids properly.
Teens are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues. They face several challenges related to school, peers, and society that may also contribute to this spike. Recognizing the signs of mental illness and strategies to support their mental health can help parents provide intervention to ensure their teens get the necessary treatment.
Understanding The Current State of Kids Mental Health
Teens are in a sensitive stage of development. They are going through biological changes that can affect brain development, while also exploring their identity and place in the world. This can make them more susceptible to developing mental illness.
Some of the most common mental health problems in teens include:
Causes of Mental Illness in Teens & Kids
There are many reasons teens can struggle with their mental health. Some teens are at a higher risk of developing mental illness due to genetics, hormones, or underlying trauma. Some of the common causes of mental health problems in teens include:
- Family history of mental illness
- Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
- Childhood trauma
- Puberty
- Low self-esteem
- Social media
- Peer conflict
- Victim of bullying
- Hormonal imbalances
- Academic stress
- Medical injury or chronic illness
Signs of Mental Illness in Teens
It’s important for parents to recognize potential signs of mental illness in their teens. Sometimes symptoms manifest as physical, emotional, or behaviors. By being mindful of the red flags of teen mental health, parents can provide quicker intervention and support. Some common signs of mental illness in teens include:
- Sudden decline in school
- Isolation
- Changes in sleep/appetite
- Rapid mood swings
- Irritability or aggression
- Violent outbursts
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
- Low self-esteem
- Physical symptoms without a direct cause (stomach problems, headaches, sweating, trembling, muscle & joint pain, etc)
- Substance abuse
- Self-harm
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation
How To Support A Teen With Mental Health Issues
Parents may not always understand why or how their teen is suffering from mental health issues. Many teens may feel alone in their struggles, ashamed, or embarrassed to reach out for support. Recognizing red flags, starting conversations around mental health in the home, and validating what your teen is feeling can be a good place to start when supporting them.
Actively listen
Listen to their problems and what they are experiencing. Actively listening means withholding judgment, avoiding interrupting them, and focusing on both what they are saying & nonverbal cues. You may ask questions to further explore the source of what they are feeling or provide clarifying statements to ensure you understand what they are saying. This can go a long way in helping your teen to feel understood and not alone in their struggle.
Validate Emotions
Sometimes opening up for teens can be extra difficult as it puts them in a vulnerable position. Parents may be quick to respond with “You have nothing to worry about”, “Focus on the positive”, or “It could be worse”. These statements are unhelpful and can push your teen further into isolation. Some helpful statements parents can use to validate the struggles of their teen include:
- “I understand that must feel stressful”
- “It’s okay to feel that way”
- “What can I do to support you?”
Foster Mental Wellness
Create a home environment that promotes healthy practices for good mental health such as mindfulness activities in the home. These can include journaling, meditation, art, dance, movement, and deep breathing exercises.
Teach Boundaries
It is helpful for teens to know when to set limits. This can help with their social media usage, finishing homework, or building healthy relationships. Teaching your teen boundary-setting phrases can help them manage their time better, increase the quality of their relationships, and help with the pressure they face on their mental health.
Model Positive Mental Health Practices
One of the most influential ways kids & teens learn is through observation. It is important for parents to model healthy habits related to mental wellness in the home so their teen embodies the same. This can look like staying calm during conflict, taking time each day to practice mindfulness, and creating a home culture that encourages practices that support overall health (sleep, nutrition, exercise).
Mental Health Support for Teens in Texas
If you identify warning signs of mental health problems 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.
Bipolar Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health.
Leslie received a Bachelor of Arts from Texas Tech University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Leslie approaches clinical work through the lens of person-centered and utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. As a leader, Leslie values the relationship she has with her clinical team and prioritizes their needs for the success of the girls’ campus. When not at work Leslie enjoys volunteering at her church and spending time with her husband and fur baby, Sabel.
