Teen Angst or Warning Sign? How to Tell if Your Child Needs Counseling

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Acknowledging That Your Teenager Needs Help Can Be Tough.
In many cases, we blame ourselves for any issues with our children, and that’s especially true in this case. However, seeking help can be very important. The teenage years are particularly tumultuous, and addressing such issues incorrectly can leave a lasting impact.

Things to Ask Yourself
You should ask yourself some important questions when you’re considering the mental health of your child. After all, it can be hard to distinguish the signs from normal teen behavior. Begin by examining your teen’s daily life and asking:

  • How is my child doing in school? If your teen is struggling to maintain grades, there could be bigger issues at hand.
  • Do I know what’s happening in my child’s life? It’s normal for teens to keep some details from their parents, especially about relationships, but it’s not good to be completely in the dark. You should have some ideas about what your child is doing, such as upcoming sporting events or a school play.
  • Do they have friends? Sometimes it’s hard for teenagers to get along with one another, but every child needs a couple of close companions.

In many cases, answering these questions can put your mind at ease. If not, it’ll help you place your concern where it belongs and sharpen your awareness. If you’re not satisfied with the answers to these questions, it’s time to pay closer attention to your teen’s behavior.

Warning Signs of Mental Distress
Finding signs of mental illness may seem terrible, but treating disorders early is one of the most effective ways to manage them. With that in mind, you should keep an eye out for:

  • Depression symptoms, such as listlessness or loss of interest.
  • Illegal activities – smoking marijuana, stealing, breaking and entering, etc.
  • Running away or disappearing for periods of time.
  • Changes in eating habits – skipping meals or vomiting after food.
  • Self-harm – this often presents as cutting, but can include blunt force and burning.
  • Extreme anger or violent behavior.
  • Behavioral changes.
  • New friends or noticeable changes in existing ones.
  • Alterations of behavior or mood.

If you notice these signs, don’t panic. Make an appointment for your child to see a counselor and begin talking to them about your concerns.

Additional Resources:
http://www.drugrehab.us/news/9-signs-teen-needs-mental-health-evaluation/
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/teen-depression-signs-help.htm

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