Identifying Mental Health Concerns in Teenagers

As the school year begins, many parents may find themselves asking, “Is my child doing OK?” It’s a simple yet daunting question, and identifying if your child is struggling with their mental health can be even more challenging. What signs should you look for, and how can you best support them if you suspect an issue? School, sports, clubs, friendships, and social activities are all part of a teenager’s life, often bringing joy and fulfillment. However, these same things can also contribute to stress, anxiety, and sadness. So, how can parents identify potential mental health concerns, and what steps should they take to help when needed?

BE SUPPORTIVE AND OPEN TO COMMUNICATION

The most crucial thing parents can do is offer unwavering support. Remember your teenage years - navigating life, wanting to fit in, and needing to be heard. Your child needs to know they can trust you with their thoughts, concerns, and questions without fear of judgment. Building an open line of communication early in adolescence is critical to maintaining that connection throughout their teenage years and beyond. While the parent-child boundaries must be respected, your child should feel comfortable talking to you freely. By fostering this environment, you set both of you up for long-term success. There are also clear signs you can watch for that may indicate underlying mental health concerns, including:

SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

If your child becomes more withdrawn, loses interest in activities they once enjoyed, sleeps excessively, or has difficulty sleeping, appears restless, is indecisive, or experiences sudden weight changes, they may be dealing with depression. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), depression is diagnosed when five or more of these symptoms occur over a two-week period and represent a change in how your child normally functions. While it can be hard to distinguish typical teenage mood swings from depression, knowing these diagnostic criteria can help you better assess the situation.

RECOGNIZING ANXIETY

Excessive worry, trouble controlling anxious thoughts, fatigue, restlessness, muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty concentrating may point to anxiety. These symptoms often manifest in specific situations like tests, public spaces, large groups, or performance settings, such as sports. According to DSM-5, anxiety is diagnosed when excessive worry occurs most days for at least six months, accompanied by three or more additional symptoms. Understanding these patterns can help you distinguish true anxiety from everyday stress, worry, attention-seeking, or fear.

IDENTIFYING EATING DISORDERS AND BODY DYSMORPHIA

If your child becomes overly concerned with their appearance, frequently talks about their body, skips meals, or excuses themselves to the restroom right after eating, they may be struggling with an eating disorder. These disorders are complex and challenging to treat because individuals often don’t see themselves the way others do. Early identification and intervention are essential to helping your child navigate this serious issue, which can be lifesaving.

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD

Opening up about mental health can be difficult for anyone, especially teenagers. They may feel isolated, unworthy, or different from their peers. It’s important to remind your child that it’s OK not to be OK and even more OK to ask for help. Talk openly with your child about their feelings and experiences. Contact a healthcare provider for guidance if you feel additional support is necessary.

It is important for children to have a trusted adult in their life - whether a parent, teacher, mentor, or healthcare provider. As someone who has personally dealt with anxiety and body dysmorphic disorder, I know how valuable it is to have someone to confide in. I strive to be that person for those in our community who need extra help. Every mental health journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. At Canyon Medical, we are dedicated to finding the right approach for each of our patients, ensuring that both parents and children feel supported and empowered to achieve success.