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Mental Health Treatment For Teens: Which One Should You Go For?

The teenage years can be a positive time for growth and self-discovery, but this sensitive period of development can also make teens more vulnerable to developing mental health (MH) problems. 

There are a number of treatments that exist to support teens with their Mental Health problems. Treatments can vary, and depend on their current struggles. Below we will explore a few of the most common mental health issues facing teens today and some common treatments to support them. 

Common Mental Health Issues in Teenagers 

Mental health issues in teens are common; 14% of the global population aged 10-19 experience some kind of MH problem. 

Teens are going through a vulnerable stage of development. Teens are exploring their identity and place in the world, while their brains are experiencing rapid biological changes and influxes of hormones. This can make them more susceptible to developing mental health issues.  

There are many Mental Health problems that can develop in teens. These can be influenced by their genetics, hormones or social circumstances. The three most common are: 

Signs A Teen Might Suffer From A Mental Health Condition 

It’s important for parents to recognize when their teen may be struggling with MH problems so they can intervene to provide support. 

Some common signs a teen may suffer from a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety or bi-polar disorder include:

Depression

Low-self esteem, isolation, low-mood or sadness, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts or self-harm

Anxiety

Tension, constantly worrying, increased heart rate, headaches, stomach problems, sweating or skin flushing, dizziness

Bi-Polar Disorder

Rapid shifts in mood between depression and mania, impulsivity, low-mood, substance abuse, racing thoughts

Treatment Approaches for Mental Health Issues 

MH treatment includes a variety of approaches. Treatment depends on the needs of your teen, their condition and symptoms. It may consist of individual or group therapy, medication, and self-help tools. 

Some common treatments used to help manage MH problems in teens: 

  • Individual therapy: These forms of talk therapies help identify negative thought patterns, build healthy coping strategies, manage emotions and develop goals. 
  • Group therapy: This can help your teen connect with others who are struggling with the same problems. 
  • Medication: This could include antidepressants, mood stabilizers or anti-anxiety meds to treat chemical imbalances and manage symptoms. 
  • Self-management tools: Taught in therapy sessions to ease symptoms. Some include journaling, meditation, movement, art, etc. 

How to Identify The Ideal Treatment For Your Teen 

A licensed mental health professional will work with your teen to understand their unique needs, symptoms and goals to develop a best plan of action for treatment. In some cases, more than one treatment may be provided (ex: antidepressants paired with talk therapy). 

Seeking Professional Help

If you identify warning signs of an underlying mental health problem in your teen, it’s important to reach out for professional mental health support to help find the best plan of treatment. 

At Clearfork Academy our team of compassionate, licensed therapists understands the complex nature of mental health problems in teens. Reach out to our Admissions team to learn more.

Sources 

Mental Health of Adolescents. 2021. World Health Organization. 

Major Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. 

Anxiety Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. 

Bipolar Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. 

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