Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Teens

The teenage years are a period of intense growth and change, both physically and emotionally. With these changes can come a range of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression to more severe issues like suicidal thoughts. 

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. A 2011 to 2021 report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) showed that 13% of high school girls and over 20% of LGBTQ+ teens had attempted suicide, with 30% of girls and 45% of LGBTQ+ teens seriously considering it. As parents, recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles in teens is crucial. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing these challenges from escalating and can save lives.

Warning Signs

Recognizing the early warning signs of mental health struggles in teens is the first step toward intervention. While each teen is different, and not every sign indicates a serious issue, some common behaviors and symptoms can signal that a teen is struggling.

The American Psychological Association lists several warning signs that may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Know that while not everyone exhibits the same signs, these are surely cause for concern:

• Physical changes in appearance or hygiene
  • Noticeable changes in grooming habits, such as neglecting personal hygiene or changes in clothing style, can indicate underlying issues.
• Increase in alcohol or drug use
  • Sudden or increased use of alcohol or drugs can be a sign of attempting to cope with emotional pain or distress.
• Sudden drop in grades
  • Struggling to concentrate, falling grades, or a lack of motivation to complete schoolwork may be signs of an underlying issue.
• Social withdrawal
  • A sudden loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as sports, hobbies, or socializing with friends, can be a red flag.
• Talking about suicide or preoccupation with death
  • Any mention of death, dying, or suicide, whether serious or in passing, should always be taken seriously.
• Risky or reckless behaviors (such as reckless driving or unsafe sex)
  • Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse, self-harm, or reckless driving, is a major warning sign.
• Self-harm behaviors such as cutting
  • Visible signs of self-harm, such as cuts, burns, or other injuries, are serious indicators that require immediate attention.
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having nothing to live for
  • This also includes frequent or extreme mood swings, persistent sadness, or irritability.
• Researching suicide methods and/or acquiring weapons
  • Conducting research on suicide methods or obtaining items that could be used for self-harm is a critical warning sign that should be addressed immediately.

How to Intervene

If you notice any of these signs in a teen, it’s essential to take action. Early intervention can help prevent the situation from worsening and provide the teen with the tools they need to cope with their feelings in a healthy way.

1. Start the Conversation: Approach your teen with compassion and concern. Let them know that you’ve noticed changes in their behavior and that you’re there to help. It’s important to listen without judgment and to take their feelings seriously.
2. Seek Professional Help: Encourage your teen to speak with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. If they are hesitant, offer to help them find a suitable professional or to accompany them to their first appointment.
3. Create a Supportive Environment: Ensure that your teen feels supported at home. This means being patient, offering encouragement, and being available to talk whenever they need to.
4. Educate Yourself: Learn more about mental health and the specific challenges that teens may face. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to support them.
5. Encourage Healthy Habits: Help your teen develop healthy coping strategies, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices.

In an emergency, call 911 or take your child to a hospital or crisis center for evaluation. “988” is also the official Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Whether you or your child are facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, their team of counselors will be there anytime you need them. 

Recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles in teens and intervening promptly can be life-saving. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help guide the teens in your life toward a healthier future. Remember, it’s never too early to start the conversation, and your support can make all the difference.