Recognizing Mental Health Symptoms In Teenagers

By Melanie Fraim, MEd, LPC

Potomac Psychological Center, LLC

. http://www.potomacpsychologicalcenter.com/

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Recognizing Mental Health Symptoms In Teenagers

Adolescence can be a challenging time for many teens and their loved ones as they try to successfully navigate the many developmental changes that occur during these years. As a result, parents and care-takers often struggle to differentiate between typical adolescent behavior and symptoms that may indicate a more significant mental health concern. Concerning symptoms and behaviors include

Frequent irritability and/or

agitation

Anger management problems

Loss of pleasure in activities usually enjoyed, without replacement of another pleasurable activity

Lack of motivation

Decrease in social interaction and/or frequent isolation

from others

Shift to a more negative

peer group

Mood problems and/or difficulty self-regulatig emotions

Feelings of hopelessness and/or worthlessness

Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and/or easily distracted

Decrease in school performance and/or attendance

An “I don’t care” attitude

Change in sleep patterns – hypersomnia(sleeping too much) or insomnia

Change in appetite either a significant increase or decrease

Self-harm behaviors

Suicidal thoughts, statements, and/or behaviors

While many of these behaviors on their own may seem typical for teenagers, the presence of multiple symptoms may be cause for concern. Some of the common mental health concerns for teenagers include anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and trauma/stressor-related disorders.

Seeking help from a mental health professional is an important first step in assessing and diagnosing these concerns. Once the initial evaluation is completed, your mental health provider will work with you to develop and implement an appropriate plan for treatment. For more information about mental health and treatment, go to www.mentalhealth.gov.