5 Signs of Poor Mental Health in Teens

Does something seem off with your teen? Poor mental health is a serious concern that is affecting more than 1 in 3 teens between the ages of 12 and 17 today. Navigating the teenage years can feel like a rollercoaster.

There is a whirlwind of emotions, school pressures, and social dynamics constantly shifting expectations and influencing behaviors. There will be peaks, and there will be lows but due to the developing adolescent brain, teens may suffer disproportionately from poor mental health.

Watch out for these common signs that your teen's mental health is suffering.

1. Drastic Changes in Mood and Behavior

Teens are known for their mood swings, but pay attention to extreme and sudden changes. According to SAMHSA, more than 5 million teens have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year and many more report frequent episodes of persistent sadness or hopelessness.

If your usually cheerful teen becomes persistently sad, anxious, or irritable, it’s worth investigating. Similarly, if they suddenly lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, this could be a red flag. It’s not just about the occasional bad day – look for patterns over weeks or months.

These changes may also be related to a co-occurring substance abuse issue as the teen seeks out ways to self-medicate poor mental health.

2. Withdrawal from Friends and Family

Social interactions are a big part of a teen’s life. If your teen starts to isolate themselves, avoiding friends and family, it’s a sign something might be wrong. They might spend more time alone in their room, skip social events, or show disinterest in conversations. This withdrawal can be a way of coping with underlying issues like depression or anxiety.

Withdrawal might look like:

• Quitting Sports Teams

• Ending Friendships

• Offering Minimal, Short Responses

• Avoiding Family Activities

• Decreased Participation in Household Chores

• Spending More Time Alone in Room

3. Changes in Sleeping and Eating Habits

Did you know that 9% of Americans suffer from disordered eating habits? This is a serious condition leading to poor physical and mental health and may lead to premature death. Eating disorders are just one end of a spectrum of mental health conditions that affect sleeping and eating habits.

Sleep and nutrition are fundamental to mental health. If your teen is sleeping too much or too little, it can be a sign of distress. Similarly, drastic changes in eating habits – whether it’s a significant increase or decrease in appetite – can indicate an underlying problem. Keep an eye out for these shifts, as they can affect their overall well-being and daily functioning.

4. Decline in Academic Performance

A sudden drop in grades or lack of interest in school can be a major indicator of poor mental health. Teens struggling with mental health issues might have difficulty concentrating, lack motivation, or feel overwhelmed by academic pressures.

If you notice a significant decline in their performance or hear from teachers about concerning changes, it’s time to step in and have a conversation.

5. Expressions of Hopelessness or Self-Harm

This is one of the most critical signs to watch for. If your teen talks about feeling hopeless, worthless, or expresses thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s essential to take immediate action.

These expressions are cries for help and should never be ignored. Seek professional help right away and ensure your teen knows they have your unconditional support.

Taking Action-Help Your Teen Today

If you notice these signs, the first step is to communicate openly with your teen. Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their feelings. Let them know it’s okay to ask for help and that you’re there for them no matter what.

Seeking professional help is crucial. A counselor, therapist, or psychologist can provide the necessary support and tools to help your teen navigate their mental health challenges. Schools often have resources, so don’t hesitate to reach out to school counselors as well.

Need help? Speak with an admissions specialist at Teen Challenge Adventure Ranch today. We can help you navigate your treatment options and decide if Christ-centered residential treatment is the right choice for your teen.