Mental health disorders in teens are not something that’s normal or expected. It’s a misconception to believe that teens are just “going through something” or will grow out of whatever they are facing. The fact is, the teen years are hard, and for many people, it’s made more challenging based on the factors around them.
The World Health Organization shares that one in seven people between the ages of 10 and 19 struggle with a mental health disorder, which is about 15% of all of those around the world that have such a disorder. Untreated severe disease has made suicide the third leading cause of death among those who are between the ages of 15 and 29.
Considering how common it is, it’s critical to know why this is happening so you can engage with your own teens to support their needs. It’s not always possible to eliminate all risks of stress or environmental trauma. Yet, by understanding the most common causes of mental health disorders in teens, it’s possible to advance your ability to recognize and get your child help.
Factors That Impact Mental Health in Teens
The onset of mental health challenges in teens is often a combination of factors. It’s true that your child’s brain is going through incredible changes during this time, especially as they learn how to become an adult, make life-changing decisions, and embrace the world around them. But what’s putting your child at risk? Consider the following.
1. The Impact of Technology on Teen Mental Health
Having a cell phone or using a computer isn’t a problem. What is a concern is the types of interactions that teens have within the digital world that cause the underlying mental health disorders they have.
It’s critical to arm yourself with knowledge about social media and youth mental health. A resource from the US Department of Health and Human Services offers a starting point for exploring this complex and critical area. It’s not about banning their access to social media but instead about knowing how to stay vigilant and putting protections in place.
2. Environmental Trauma and Teen Mental Health
Trauma occurs when the brain does not properly process a situation in a healthy manner, leading to an unresolved concern that can resurface later. It can be brought on by various types of interactions and experiences during teen years, including:
- Seeing assaults on friends and family
- Loss of a close family member in an unexpected event
- Physical, emotional, mental health, sexual, or other forms of abuse
- First-hand experience with natural disasters
- Watching a family member, friend, or even a stranger die
You may be unable to shield your child from these events. Yet, when they are exposed, it is critical to know the signs of how children and teens respond to events that create trauma. When you see those signs, take action to get them support. Don’t assume they will recover on their own.
3. Chronic Stress
Imagine the intense stress you felt in high school. Now, realize that today’s teen typically has more opportunities to feel that type of intense stress on a chronic basis. Some of the most common causes of this stress include:
- Bullying
- Demands on social media
- Cultural expectations
- Social expectations
- Low self-esteem brought on by appearances or family circumstances
Chronic stress can be a significant contributor to mental health disorders development in teens if they do not get the support they need to navigate these challenging situations. Loneliness, self-judgment, and the demons at school or work can become challenging for anyone to navigate. Your teen needs support as they do so.
When to Get Your Teen Mental Health Support
If you notice the following happening to your child, now may be the best time to take action:
- Drastic changes in behavior
- Talking about suicide or hurting others
- Sadness that seems to last a week or more
- Frequent stomach aches or headaches
- Outbursts of anger and frustration
- Loss of interest in activities they enjoy
- Hurting themselves
You do not need numerous warning signs and indications that something is wrong to get your child into therapy. If you’re thinking about it, take action. Our teen therapy programs are available to those who are up to the age of 17 who may be having acute psychiatric problems related to depression or other disorders. Our team is always available to meet with you to discuss the level of care available to your child.
You can schedule an assessment with the team at Willow Creek Behavioral Health in Green Bay, Wisconsin today. When you do, you open the door to empowering your child to get the care and support they need. Contact us now to learn more.
