Parenting a teenager can be a job with many challenges and uncertainties. One of the important things every parent should know is how to tell the difference between normal teen behavior and what could be a sign of a deeper mental problem.
Mood swings and new interests are totally normal during the teenage years, but some behaviors could be indicators that your teen needs professional help. Below, this behavioral health specialist in Northwest Indiana is going to highlight some potential red flags to be mindful of.
Spotting early warning signs in teen behavior
From school stress to social challenges, teens go through a lot. Sometimes, these pressures can show up in ways that indicate a need for more support:
Anxiety – If your teenage child is so anxious that it affects their eating or focus, that’s clearly a big red flag. Feeling nervous before a test or event is one thing, but constant anxiety needs attention from a behavioral health specialist in Northwest Indiana.
Depression – If your teenage child shows a lack of interest in their favorite activities, has trouble focusing, or pulls away from friends and family, they could be suffering from depression. Unaddressed depression can lead to serious outcomes like suicidal thoughts, which is why you need to consult a behavioral health specialist in Northwest Indiana if you start seeing these signs.
Changes in appetite and eating habits – Teens tend to eat differently at different times, but major changes could point to something like an eating disorder.
Substance use – Signs of substance use (whether as a coping mechanism or due to peer pressure) are also something you need to watch out for. These can show up as changes in friendships, behavior, or physical appearance.
Trouble at school – If your teen’s grades suddenly drop, they refuse to go to school, or they quit school activities, they might be struggling with depression or anxiety.
Sleep problems – If your teen is sleeping too much or too little, that can also be a sign of issues like depression or anxiety.
Low self-esteem – Teens compare themselves to others and they do this a lot- especially in these social media days. As a result of this, they might start seeing themselves negatively or even engage in self-harm behaviors. Self-harm is a serious warning sign that needs immediate action. Pay attention if your teen wears long sleeves to hide scars and injuries.
Paranoia and intrusive thoughts – Being constantly paranoid or stuck in negative thoughts can really affect your teen’s daily life.
How parents can help their teens
If you want to help your teen through tough times, simply start by talking to them. Create a space where they feel safe to share their feelings and experiences without fear of being judged. This way, you can spot any problems early, and your teen can freely express what’s on their mind.
Encouraging a healthy diet is also very important. Make sure your teen is eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which will help both their physical and mental health. Doing fun activities as a family that builds confidence can also really help. All you need to do is make sure these activities are something your teen really enjoys.
Setting limits on screen time is also a must. Establish clear rules about how much time everyone spends on devices. This helps keep a healthy balance and sets good habits for the whole family. For more personalized guidance, consider talking to a behavioral health specialist in Northwest Indiana. They can provide expert advice tailored to your family’s needs.
Looking for an Affordable Behavioral Health Specialist in Northwest Indiana?
Are you ready to sit down with a behavioral health specialist in Northwest Indiana who can help you support your teen through challenging times? If so, our team at 219 Health Network is here to help. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to get started.