Teen Mental Health: Warning Signs & How Parents Can Help

The teenage years are a time of tremendous change—physical, emotional, and social. While some mood swings and challenges are normal parts of adolescent development, it can be difficult for parents to know when their teen is struggling with something more serious.

At Healing Therapy Center, we work with many families navigating the complexities of teen mental health. Understanding the warning signs and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in your teenager's wellbeing.

The Teen Mental Health Crisis

Teen mental health challenges have been rising steadily, with rates accelerating in recent years. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 3 high school students experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Factors contributing to this crisis include:

· Increased academic pressure

· Social media and online pressures

· Reduced in-person social connections

· Uncertainty about the future

· Family stressors

· Identity and developmental challenges

Common Mental Health Challenges in Teens

Depression

Teen depression may look different from adult depression. Watch for persistent irritability, withdrawal from friends and activities, declining grades, changes in sleep or appetite, and expressions of hopelessness.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues in teens. This can include generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, or specific phobias. Anxiety may show up as avoidance of school, social situations, or activities they once enjoyed.

ADHD

While often diagnosed in childhood, some teens aren't identified until the increased demands of middle or high school reveal their struggles with attention, organization, and impulse control.

Eating Disorders

Teens are particularly vulnerable to eating disorders, which can include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or other disordered eating patterns. These conditions are serious medical and mental health concerns requiring specialized treatment.

Self-Harm and Suicidal Thoughts

Some teens cope with emotional pain through self-harm or may experience suicidal thoughts. These are serious warning signs that require immediate professional attention.

Warning Signs Every Parent Should Know

While every teen is different, the following changes may indicate your teenager is struggling:

Behavioral Changes:

· Withdrawal from friends and family

· Dropping activities they used to enjoy

· Declining academic performance

· Changes in sleep patterns (too much or too little)

· Changes in eating habits

· Increased secrecy or lying

· Risk-taking behavior

Emotional Changes:

· Persistent sadness or hopelessness

· Increased irritability or anger

· Excessive worry or fear

· Emotional outbursts disproportionate to situations

· Expressing feelings of worthlessness

· Talking about death or suicide

Physical Signs:

· Frequent headaches or stomachaches

· Unexplained weight changes

· Fatigue or low energy

· Neglecting personal hygiene

· Signs of self-harm (cuts, burns, unexplained injuries)

How Parents Can Help

1. Create Open Communication

Let your teen know you're available to listen without judgment. Choose low-pressure moments for conversations (like during car rides). Ask open-ended questions and really listen to the answers. Avoid minimizing their feelings or jumping to problem-solving mode.

2. Stay Connected

Maintain family routines and rituals. Show interest in their world—their friends, music, interests. Spend quality time together, even if it's just watching their favorite show. Connection is protective against mental health struggles.

3. Model Healthy Coping

Teens learn from watching adults. Talk about how you manage stress. Demonstrate healthy habits like exercise, adequate sleep, and limiting screen time. Show them it's okay to ask for help when needed.

4. Set Reasonable Expectations

Balance high expectations with emotional support. Focus on effort rather than just outcomes. Help them manage their schedule to avoid burnout. Recognize that their mental health matters more than perfect grades or achievements.

5. Monitor Social Media Use

Have ongoing conversations about online life. Set boundaries around screen time and device use. Know what platforms they're using. Watch for signs of cyberbullying or negative online experiences.

6. Know When to Seek Help

Don't wait until things are severe. If you notice persistent changes lasting more than two weeks, declining functioning at school or home, or any signs of self-harm or suicidal thoughts, seek professional help promptly.

The Benefits of Teen Therapy

Therapy provides teens with:

· A safe, confidential space to express themselves

· Tools to manage difficult emotions

· Strategies for handling stress and pressure

· Support navigating relationships and identity

· A neutral adult perspective outside the family

· Early intervention that can prevent more serious problems

Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health Journey

At Healing Therapy Center, our therapists specialize in working with adolescents and their families. We offer both individual therapy for teens and family therapy to help improve communication and strengthen relationships.

We provide in-person sessions at our Dearborn, Michigan office and telehealth therapy throughout Michigan—which many teens actually prefer for its convenience and privacy.

We accept most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Priority Health, McLaren, and HAP. Schedule an appointment today or call us at (313) 654-1915. Your teenager's mental health matters.