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Understanding Normal Teenage Behavior vs. Problems with Their Mental Health: When to Seek Help


teenagers hanging out looking at a laptop screen

Teenagers go through a lot of changes as they grow up. With all the physical, emotional, and social shifts, it can be tough to tell the difference between typical teenage behavior and signs of a mental health issue. In this blog, we’ll explore what’s considered “normal” for teens and when it’s time to seek professional help.



Typical Teenage Behavior: What’s Normal?

As teens develop, it’s normal for them to test boundaries, become more independent, and experience mood swings. Here are some common behaviors you might see that are usually part of normal growth:


  • Moodiness: Hormones and stress from school or social life can cause teens to have mood swings. While they might seem irritable or distant at times, these feelings usually pass.

  • Spending More Time Alone: Teens often pull away from family to spend more time with friends or on hobbies. This need for privacy is normal as they figure out their own identity.

  • Struggling with Identity: It’s natural for teens to question who they are. They may experiment with different styles, friend groups, and activities as they try to discover themselves.


While these behaviors can sometimes be challenging for parents, they’re typically part of growing up. However, when these behaviors become extreme or last for a long time, they could be a sign of a deeper mental health issue.


Red Flags for Teenage Mental Health Concerns

Knowing when your teen might need extra help can be difficult, but there are clear signs that may indicate something more serious is going on. These include:


  • Changes in Sleep Patterns: If your teen is consistently sleeping too much, having trouble falling asleep, or staying awake all night, it could be a sign of depression or anxiety. Sleep problems are often tied to mental health issues and shouldn’t be ignored.

  • Constant Sadness or Irritability: While it’s normal for teens to feel down every now and then, if your child seems sad, hopeless, or angry for weeks at a time, it could be more than just teenage moodiness. Long-lasting sadness can be a sign of depression or other mood disorders.

  • Social Withdrawal: If your teen is pulling away from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy, it may be time to take a closer look. Social isolation can be a sign of depression, anxiety, or even early signs of more serious conditions like psychosis.

  • Sudden Decline in School Performance: Struggling to focus, sudden drop in grades, or skipping school altogether can indicate underlying mental health issues, like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or depression.

  • Risky or Self-Harming Behavior: If your teen engages in dangerous behavior, such as substance use, self-harm (like cutting), or other reckless activities, it’s essential to seek help immediately. These behaviors can be signs of serious emotional distress or mental illness.

  • Talking About Death or Suicide: If your teen talks about feeling worthless, wanting to die, or mentions suicide, it’s critical to get help right away. According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-24. Never ignore these signs.


When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice any of these signs in your teenager, it may be time to reach out for professional support. Mental health professionals can assess your child, provide a diagnosis if needed, and create a treatment plan that could include therapy, medication, or other interventions.


According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 50% of adolescents will experience a mental health condition at some point. Early intervention can make a huge difference in your child’s long-term mental health and well-being.



 

At our psychiatry clinic, we specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults. We understand the challenges that come with growing up, and we’re here to provide support for both your child and your family. If you have concerns about your teen’s mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer evaluations, medication management, and therapy referrals to help guide your teen toward a healthier future.

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