Your teenager used to talk to you about everything. Now, they spend hours alone in their room. They snap at you for asking them about their life. Their grades are dropping. You wonder: Is this normal teenage behavior, or should I be worried?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering this. Many parents find it difficult to understand whether their teen is just going through a phase or facing real behavioral health challenges.
Understanding why they’re acting this way is the first step toward getting help, and that’s where Alter Behavioral Health comes in.
Common Types of Teen Behavioral Health Issues
Teenagers can face many behavioral health problems. Some of the most common issues include:
Depression
Depression looks different for every teen. Some teens may feel persistent sadness for weeks or months. Others may suddenly lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. They might sleep too much or too little.
Anxiety
Anxiety causes constant worry and fear in teens. Teens with anxiety may avoid school or hanging out with friends because they feel scared or nervous.
Attention Problems
Attention problems like ADHD make it hard for teens to focus or complete tasks. They may have trouble following instructions or may act without thinking.
Behavioral Disorders
Behavioral disorders cause teens to break rules or have angry outbursts. They may argue with adults or refuse to follow directions.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders change how teens think about food and their bodies. They may have unhealthy eating patterns.
Substance Use Problems
Substance use problems happen when teens use drugs or alcohol. This serious issue can affect their health, school, and relationships.
Signs of Behavioral Problems in Teenagers
Figuring out if your teen needs help doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some warning signs to look for:
- Random mood swings
- Pulling away from family and friends
- Grades dropping or skipping school
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Angry outbursts or violent behavior
- Talking about feeling hopeless or wanting to hurt themselves
- Using drugs or alcohol
- Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no clear cause
If you notice several of these signs, it’s time to act. Trust your instincts as a parent. You know your child best.
Causes of Teen Mental Health and Behavioral Challenges
Many things can lead to behavioral health problems in teenagers. Understanding these causes can help you support your teen better.
Biological Factors
Your teen’s brain is still developing. The limbic system (the part that controls emotions) isn’t fully grown yet. This makes teens more likely to act on feelings without thinking.
Genetics play a role, too. If mental health problems run in your family, your teen has a higher chance of experiencing them.
And hormonal changes during puberty affect mood and behavior. These natural changes can make emotions feel more intense.
Environmental Factors
Stress from school or family problems can overwhelm teens. They may not know how to cope with difficult situations in healthy ways.
Trauma from past experiences can affect teen behavior. This includes things like abuse, loss of a loved one, or witnessing violence.
Cyberbullying on social media is more common than many parents realize. According to a 2018 study, teens who experience cyberbullying are twice as likely to harm themselves.
Teen Anxiety and Depression Symptoms
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common problems teens face today. Here are some common symptoms:
Anxiety Symptoms
- Constant worrying about many things
- Feeling restless
- Trouble concentrating or sleeping
- Avoiding situations that make them nervous
Depression Symptoms
- Feeling sad or empty most days
- Not enjoying things they used to love
- Eating much more or much less than usual
- Sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping
- Feeling tired all the time
- Thoughts about death or suicide
If your teen shows these symptoms for long periods of time, reach out for help right away.
How to Help a Teenager with Behavioral Issues
You can make a real difference in your teen’s life. Here are some ways to help:
Communication and Connection
Create a safe space where your teen can share their feelings without judgment. Ask questions, but don’t pressure them to answer. If they decide to respond, pay attention and listen to them carefully.
Don’t forget to stay calm if they act out, and spend quality time with them, even if they seem uninterested.
Healthy Habits
Encourage healthy habits. Make sure your teen gets enough sleep, eats well, and stays active. These basics help support mental health.
Limit screen time. Set reasonable limits on phone and social media use, especially before bed.
Professional Support
Get professional help if needed. Don’t try to handle everything alone. Reaching out to professionals at Alter Behavioral Health can help your teen and create a healthier home environment.
Teen Behavioral Health Treatment Options
Many effective treatments exist to help teens with behavioral health challenges:
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy gives teens a safe place to talk about their feelings and learn new skills.
Family therapy involves the whole family in treatment. This helps improve communication and solve problems together.
In group therapy, teens connect with others facing similar challenges. They can share experiences and support each other.
Medical and Intensive Treatment
Medication can help with some conditions like depression, anxiety, or ADHD. A doctor can determine if medication is right for your teen.
Intensive programs offered at Alter Behavioral Health provide more support for teens who need extra help. These programs offer structured treatment in a safe environment.
Preventing Behavioral Health Problems in Adolescents
While you can’t prevent all behavioral health problems, you can lower the risks:
- Build open communication with your teen from an early age
- Teach healthy ways to handle stress and other strong emotions
- Create a supportive home environment
- Monitor your teen’s activities and friendships without being controlling
- Address problems early before they get worse
- Keep connected with your teen’s school and activities
When teens feel loved and supported, they’re more likely to come to you when problems arise.
When to Seek Professional Help for Teen Behavior
Some situations require professional help right away. Seek immediate help if your teen:
- Talks about suicide or hurting themselves
- Has severe mood swings that affect daily life
- Uses drugs or alcohol regularly
- Shows signs of an eating disorder
- Experiences hallucinations or delusions
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Reach out to a mental health professional.
Your Teen’s Path Forward Begins Today
Watching your teenager struggle is hard. But remember, behavioral health challenges can be treated. With the right support, your teen can learn to manage their symptoms and thrive.
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Our team at Alter Behavioral Health understands what you’re going through and is ready to help.
Contact us today to speak with a professional who can answer your questions and explain your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do teen behavioral health problems usually start? Most behavioral health problems begin between the ages of 12 and 18.
Are behavioral health problems in teens common? Yes, about 1 in 5 teens experiences a mental health or behavioral problem.
Can teens outgrow behavioral health issues? Some teens do improve as they mature, but many need treatment.
Should I tell my teen’s school about their behavioral health problems? Yes, schools can provide support and accommodations. Work with your teen to decide what information to share.Does insurance cover teen behavioral health treatment? Most insurance plans cover mental health treatment. Check if your insurance covers programs at Alter Behavioral Health here.
