We are fortunate enough to live in a time where the topic of mental health is no longer taboo. Today, parents are able to better understand common mental struggles such as anxiety and depression, and how they affect our teens.
Understanding teen mental health struggles sets you both up for better communication and healing.
How common is mental illness in teenagers?
It’s becoming increasingly common for teenagers to experience periods of anxiety and depression. A rollercoaster of hormonal emotions coupled with many new life experiences, pressures and tumultuous transitions, make teens a vulnerable group.
As a result, teens are more susceptible to mental health illnesses. These struggles could be triggered by the
pressures of studying, questions of the future and the daily navigation of peers and puberty.
Teen mental health illness on the rise.
In today’s
age of technology, many studies have found that teens are even more likely to develop anxiety, depression or eating disorders. Twenty-first century struggles such as cyberbullying and social media comparison have added new pressures on a young teen’s plate.
Signs of mental health illness in teens.
As a parent, you’ll easily differentiate between a moody teen and a depressed one. While mood swings are normal and nothing to worry about, it’s important to be aware when something more serious is going on.
Some of the symptoms of mental health illness include:
● Changes in sleep patterns
● Lack of energy, drive or motivation
● Inability to concentrate or complete takes
● Social withdrawal
● Changes in appetite
● Thoughts or mention of suicide or self-harm
● Loss of self esteem
● Dramatic decline in academic performance
How to help a struggling teen.
If you pick up on continued behaviours that seem different to a normal amount of irritation or apathy, rather confront the issue head on instead of leaving it too late. Here are some steps you can take to support your teen in such scenarios:
1.
Open and honest communication. Communication is key to helping your teen navigate through a difficult time. Together, you can find positive ways to overcome mental health challenges. Chat to them about your own adolescent fears so that they don’t feel judged, abnormal or alone.
2. Be patient. While the teenage years aren’t easy for anyone, it’s important to be gentle and patient with your teen in order to foster an open relationship. What may seem to be a simple problem to you, could feel like the end of the world to them.
3.
Stay aware. Be attentive to your teen during these transitory phases, so that you’re able to pick up on any danger signs as early as possible. The sooner you can confront the issue, the better chance your teen has of finding suitable treatment.
While teen mental illness is becoming increasingly common, so is access to the right types of treatment. Should you feel that your child is exhibiting worrying behaviour, you can seek extra professional help. Your GP will be able to recommend relevant specialists or therapists to support both you and your teen through rocky waters.
