Table of Contents
What Is Mental Illness?
Are you a parent or guardian wondering what the term mental illness means for your teen?
Adolescence is a period marked by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes, making teens more vulnerable to mental health issues.
Mental illness refers to a wide range of mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior in teens.
These can include depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, and schizophrenia, among others.
Recognizing and addressing mental health issues early in adolescence is key because their bodies, brains, and personalities are still growing and forming.
Untreated mental illness can lead to severe consequences, including poor academic performance, strained family and social relationships, substance abuse, and even suicide.
Early intervention and treatment are vital in preventing these outcomes.
The stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents teenagers and their families from seeking help.
Parents, educators, and healthcare providers need to create an environment where teens feel safe to express their mental health concerns.
Open communication, education about mental health, and accessible treatment options are key to supporting adolescents in navigating these challenges.
By acknowledging and addressing mental health issues, we can help teens develop into healthy, resilient adults.
Types of Mental Illness in Teens
Mental health concerns are increasingly prevalent among teenagers, with a range of conditions affecting this age group.
Understanding these conditions is key for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to provide appropriate support and intervention.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues in teenagers.
They encompass a range of conditions, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Specific phobias
Teenagers with anxiety disorders often experience intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.
These feelings are often accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and fatigue.
Anxiety disorders can significantly impact a teenager’s school performance, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
Depression
Depression is a serious mood disorder characterized by:
- Persistent feelings of sadness
- Hopelessness
- Lack of interest or pleasure in activities
It’s more than just a bout of the blues; depression in teenagers can manifest in various ways, including:
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased energy
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
In severe cases, it can lead to thoughts of death or suicide.
Depression in teens is often underdiagnosed and can be mistaken for typical adolescent moodiness.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, are prevalent in teenagers, particularly among females, though males are also affected.
These disorders are characterized by an obsessive focus on weight, body shape, and food, leading to dangerous eating behaviors.
These behaviors can significantly impact physical health and are often associated with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is commonly diagnosed in childhood but can continue into adolescence and adulthood.
It is characterized by a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior.
Teens with ADHD may struggle with low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and poor performance in school.
Bipolar Disorder
This disorder is marked by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly.
Bipolar disorder in teens can be hard to distinguish from other problems that may occur in this age group.
Substance Use Disorders
While not always classified strictly as a mental illness, substance use disorders often co-occur with mental health conditions in teenagers.
These disorders involve the use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications in a way that is harmful to the individual.
Schizophrenia
Though less common in teens than in adults, schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally.
It can result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and extremely disordered thinking and behavior.
Each of these conditions requires a different approach to treatment and support.
Caregivers and professionals need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these disorders to provide timely and effective interventions.
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes significantly for teenagers with mental health issues.
Signs of Mental Illness In Teens
Recognizing the signs of mental illness in teenagers is crucial for timely intervention and support.
As parents or caregivers, being aware of these red flags can help in identifying potential mental health challenges and seeking appropriate help.
Here are some key warning signs to look out for:
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Drastic changes in sleep habits, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping, can be indicative of mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Parents should monitor their teen’s sleep patterns and take note if there are significant deviations from their normal routines.
Withdrawal from Social Activities
If a teen suddenly loses interest in spending time with friends or participating in activities they used to enjoy, it might signal a problem.
Parents should gently encourage open communication to understand the reasons behind this withdrawal.
Decline in Academic Performance
A noticeable drop in grades or loss of interest in schoolwork can be a sign of underlying mental health issues.
Parents should approach this with understanding and avoid punitive measures, focusing instead on supportive dialogue to uncover potential stressors or difficulties.
Changes in Eating Habits
Significant weight loss or gain, or an unhealthy preoccupation with food and body image, could be signs of eating disorders.
Parents need to observe these changes without judgment and seek professional advice if eating disorders are suspected.
Mood Swings and Irritability
While mood swings can be part of normal teenage development, extreme or persistent changes in mood may be cause for concern.
Parents should look for patterns of moodiness that are intense and prolonged, which could indicate depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health issues.
Substance Abuse
Experimentation with alcohol or drugs can sometimes be a coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues.
Parents should be alert to any signs of substance abuse and address it in a non-confrontational manner, focusing on understanding and support.
Self-Harm
Behaviors like cutting or self-inflicted injuries are serious warning signs of mental distress.
Parents should approach this issue with utmost sensitivity, seeking professional help immediately.
Expressions of Hopelessness or Suicidal Thoughts
Any talk of hopelessness, helplessness, or mentions of suicide should be taken very seriously.
Parents should provide immediate emotional support and seek professional intervention.
Practical Advice for Parents
Communication: Maintain open and non-judgmental communication with your teen. Regular check-ins and an open-door policy can encourage them to share their feelings.
Education: Educate yourself about the symptoms and signs of different mental health conditions.
Professional Help: Do not hesitate to seek professional help if you notice any concerning signs. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
Supportive Environment: Create a supportive and understanding home environment. Show empathy and patience as your teen navigates these challenges.
Monitor Online Activity: Be aware of your teen’s online activity, as excessive use of social media can sometimes contribute to mental health issues.
This also includes understanding the impact of online learning on teens’ mental health and how you (as a parent) can them mitigate the stress that comes along with that.
It’s important to remember that these signs do not confirm a mental illness but are indicators that your teen might need help.
As a parent, your support, understanding, and proactive approach can make a significant difference in your teen’s mental health journey.
How Mental Health Issues can Lead to Substance Abuse
The correlation between mental health issues and substance abuse in teenagers is a significant concern.
Adolescents often turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism for their mental health struggles.
This intersection of mental health and substance abuse is known as a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis.
Teenagers experiencing mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders may use substances to self-medicate, seeking temporary relief from their symptoms.
For instance, a teen with anxiety might use alcohol to feel less inhibited in social settings, or one with depression might turn to drugs to escape feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
This self-medication, however, can quickly lead to substance abuse and addiction, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates the original mental health issue.
Substance abuse in turn can worsen mental health symptoms.
It can lead to increased feelings of anxiety or depression, interfere with normal brain development, and even trigger new psychiatric symptoms.
Furthermore, substance use can impede the effectiveness of mental health treatment, complicating the recovery process.
Recognizing and addressing mental health issues early in teenagers is crucial to prevent the onset of substance abuse.
Effective mental health treatment, supportive environments, and education about the risks of substance abuse can mitigate the likelihood of teenagers turning to drugs or alcohol.
Early intervention for mental health conditions can significantly reduce the risk of subsequent substance abuse, underscoring the importance of comprehensive mental health care in adolescence.
By tackling mental health challenges head-on, parents, educators, and healthcare providers can play a critical role in preventing the development of co-occurring disorders in teens.
The Stats and Facts
The prevalence and impact of mental health issues in teenagers are increasingly recognized as critical concerns.
Recent statistics and studies highlight the urgency of addressing these issues to support the well-being of young people.
World Health Organization (WHO)
- Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, contributing to 13% of the global disease burden in this age group.
- Depression is among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents.
- Suicide ranks as the fourth leading cause of death among 15-19 year-olds.
- The leading causes of adolescent mental health issues are depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders.
These stark statistics emphasize the importance of addressing mental health in adolescents for their long-term well-being.
The consequences of unaddressed adolescent mental health conditions extend into adulthood, impacting physical and mental health and limiting life opportunities.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
The figures below from NIMH highlight the widespread nature of mental health issues among young people:
- An estimated 49.5% of adolescents have had any mental disorder.
- Alarmingly, of these, an estimated 22.2% have severe impairment.
- The most common conditions reported were:
- Anxiety disorders (31.9% of adolescents),
- Behavior disorders (19.1%)
- Depressive disorders (14.3%)
JAMA Pediatrics
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated mental health challenges for teenagers.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association: Pediatrics found that depressive and anxiety symptoms in adolescents have doubled during the pandemic.
25.2% of teens experienced depressive symptoms and 20.5% experienced anxiety symptoms.
This increase is attributed to the social isolation, disruption of routines, and educational uncertainties caused by the pandemic.
SAMHSA
Substance use among teenagers with mental health issues is also a significant concern.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that in 2019, 36.7% of U.S. adolescents aged 12-17 reported using alcohol or drugs in the past year
Among these, a substantial proportion struggle with mental health disorders.
These statistics and facts from such credible sources reveal the critical nature of adolescent mental health concerns.
They emphasize the need for accessible mental health services, early intervention strategies, and ongoing support for teenagers.
Addressing these mental health challenges is not just crucial for the well-being of individual teenagers but is also fundamental to the health of our broader communities.
A Teen’s Primary Care Doctor Can Make The Diagnosis
A primary care doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing mental health issues in teens.
Often the first point of contact, they can identify early signs of mental health concerns during routine check-ups or when a teen presents with symptoms.
These doctors can conduct initial assessments, provide referrals to mental health specialists if necessary, and monitor the teen’s overall health.
Parents need to maintain proactive communication with their teen’s primary care doctor, sharing any concerns or changes in behavior, to ensure timely and effective mental health care.
Open communication helps in creating a comprehensive care plan that addresses the teen’s unique needs.
How Clearfork Academy Can Help Your Teen with Mental Health
Clearfork Academy is an outdoor adventure program that serves adolescent boys and girls who are 13- 17 years old.
We provide substance use treatment and help for teens experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, dual diagnosis, and self-harm, among others.
We offer a Christian faith-based, therapeutic environment for youth struggling with the physical, mental, social, and spiritual bonds of chemical dependency and mental health.
It is a structured and supportive environment to includes individual, family, and group therapies, and evidence-based programming.
Our experienced, licensed counselors are compassionate and skilled in working with teens in our ranch setting that offers outdoor adventure activities.
Key Takeaways
- Mental illness refers to a wide range of mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior in teens.
- Recognizing and addressing mental health issues early in adolescence is key because their bodies, brains, and personalities are still growing and forming.
- Understanding mental health conditions that teens may face is key for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to provide appropriate support and intervention.
- Recognizing the signs of mental illness in teenagers is crucial for timely intervention and support.
- As a parent, your support, understanding, and proactive approach can make a significant difference in your teen’s mental health journey.
- Adolescents often turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism for their mental health struggles.
- Teenagers experiencing mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders may use substances to self-medicate, seeking temporary relief from their symptoms.
- Recent statistics and studies highlight the urgency of addressing these issues to support the well-being of young people.
- A primary care doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing mental health issues in teens.
- Clearfork Academy is ready to help if your teen is struggling with these signs of mental health issues.
World Health Organization (WHO). Nov. 2021. Mental Health of Adolescents
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Statistics
Madican. S., et al. May 1, 2023. Changes in Depression and Anxiety Among Children and Adolescents From Before to During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics
2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Originally from the Saginaw, Eagle Mountain area, Austin Davis earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in Cleveland, TN and a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Church of God Theological Seminary. He then went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the State of Texas.
Austin’s professional history includes both local church ministry and clinical counseling. At a young age, he began serving youth at the local church in various capacities which led to clinical training and education. Austin gained a vast knowledge of mental health disorders while working in state and public mental health hospitals. This is where he was exposed to almost every type of diagnosis and carries this experience into the daily treatment.
Austin’s longtime passion is Clearfork Academy, a christ-centered residential facility focused on mental health and substance abuse. He finds joy and fulfillment working with “difficult” clients that challenge his heart and clinical skill set. It is his hope and desire that each resident that passes through Clearfork Academy will be one step closer to their created design.
Austin’s greatest pleasures in life are being a husband to his wife, and a father to his growing children. He serves at his local church by playing guitar, speaking and helping with tech arts. Austin also enjoys being physically active, reading, woodworking, and music.
