The teenage years are difficult for both teens and their parents. As your child enters these confusing years it is important that you know what they are dealing with, but it is also important that you carefully watch for signs of emotional or mental problems. Is your teen struggling? There are signs you should be aware of, including:
Suicide Jokes or Comments- In the past few months has your teen commented or joked about committing suicide? Now is the time to consider outside help for the young adult in your life. Would you be surprised to learn suicide is a leading cause of teen death? This is one reason it is so important for parents to be aware of a teenager's thought process. Moreover, teens do not tend to joke about suicide and if they are mentioning it they are probably contemplating.
Alcohol and Drugs- It is not uncommon for teenager's to experiment with drugs and alcohol, at least once or twice, and parents usually do not know. Statistics say boys will try alcohol around age 11 and girls by age 13. Have you noticed a drastic change in your child's personality or judgement? Bloodshot eyes, frequent vomiting or stomach illness are all signs they may be drinking or doing drugs. Of course, legal issues and falling grades are also prime indicators that your teen is testing their wings by experimenting with drugs, alcohol or both.
Sullen or Listless- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness are common companions to depression, as is a sullen or listless demeanor. Teen's often struggle with depression which can range from mild to severe. If you notice your happy child is now an angry teenager who is constantly putting themselves down, it could be time to ask for help. Depression can leave kids feeling helpless and all alone.
Bully- Just because your teenager is not a bully at home, does not mean the same is true at school. Many parents are shocked to learn their teen is taunting and tormenting classmates. There are times when this type of cruelty can boil over to the family pets, some kids will torture, abuse or kill small animals. Research has proven that this type of behavior is likely to escalate as children get older, leading to violent behavior with other people. A personality or behavior disorder is often diagnosed in these cases.
Ups and Downs- No one is in a good mood all the time, but when a teenager is depressed one minute and extremely happy the next, you could be dealing with bipolar mood disorder. A period of depression followed quickly by a period of mania is a classic sign. Mania periods are times when your teen will be very active, excited and happy. They may find it hard to concentrate or sit still, like they are bursting with energy. During either period you should notice a marked change in demeanor and judgement, they may sleep less and take more risks than normal.
As a parent it is your responsibility to be there for your kids, and when there is a possibility of emotional or mental health problems this is even more important. Correcting the problems is much easier when you catch them early on, so pay attention for signs. If you notice any of the above with your teenager, reach out for help sooner rather than later.
Suicide Jokes or Comments- In the past few months has your teen commented or joked about committing suicide? Now is the time to consider outside help for the young adult in your life. Would you be surprised to learn suicide is a leading cause of teen death? This is one reason it is so important for parents to be aware of a teenager's thought process. Moreover, teens do not tend to joke about suicide and if they are mentioning it they are probably contemplating.
Alcohol and Drugs- It is not uncommon for teenager's to experiment with drugs and alcohol, at least once or twice, and parents usually do not know. Statistics say boys will try alcohol around age 11 and girls by age 13. Have you noticed a drastic change in your child's personality or judgement? Bloodshot eyes, frequent vomiting or stomach illness are all signs they may be drinking or doing drugs. Of course, legal issues and falling grades are also prime indicators that your teen is testing their wings by experimenting with drugs, alcohol or both.
Sullen or Listless- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness are common companions to depression, as is a sullen or listless demeanor. Teen's often struggle with depression which can range from mild to severe. If you notice your happy child is now an angry teenager who is constantly putting themselves down, it could be time to ask for help. Depression can leave kids feeling helpless and all alone.
Bully- Just because your teenager is not a bully at home, does not mean the same is true at school. Many parents are shocked to learn their teen is taunting and tormenting classmates. There are times when this type of cruelty can boil over to the family pets, some kids will torture, abuse or kill small animals. Research has proven that this type of behavior is likely to escalate as children get older, leading to violent behavior with other people. A personality or behavior disorder is often diagnosed in these cases.
Ups and Downs- No one is in a good mood all the time, but when a teenager is depressed one minute and extremely happy the next, you could be dealing with bipolar mood disorder. A period of depression followed quickly by a period of mania is a classic sign. Mania periods are times when your teen will be very active, excited and happy. They may find it hard to concentrate or sit still, like they are bursting with energy. During either period you should notice a marked change in demeanor and judgement, they may sleep less and take more risks than normal.
As a parent it is your responsibility to be there for your kids, and when there is a possibility of emotional or mental health problems this is even more important. Correcting the problems is much easier when you catch them early on, so pay attention for signs. If you notice any of the above with your teenager, reach out for help sooner rather than later.
About the Author:
Thank you to Kathy at Innovative Medical. This idea originated from Innovative Medical Services - The Pinnacle Schools reviews and complaints of mental health problems for teenagers
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