Adolescent and Teen Issues

Adolescents are at a time in their lives when they are experiencing significant changes and can be under a lot of pressure. Friends, school, and family issues are just some of the many things that are on their minds. These pressures can show themselves in a variety of ways, and can cause teens to act out, become withdrawn, or show other signs of frustration, anxiety, or depression. Some youth may even be facing serious mental health issues or disorders.

In the process of growing from a child to an adult, most teens will have trouble coping at some time, or they may exhibit behaviours which are of concern to their parents, family members, or teachers. Depending on their home or school situation, some adolescents may face more problems than others. Some youth may be facing psychological disorders that parents may not notice or do not want to acknowledge. Be aware that some of these disorders may be predisposed based on family history of having these issues genetically.

Teens may have also experienced traumatic situations that can seriously affect their ability to cope and have a strong affect on their mental wellness.

Some issues adolescents may be facing today include:

• Abuse (emotional, physical, or sexual)
• Bullying
• Communication difficulties
• Parent’s divorce and separation
• Extended family difficulties
• Learning disorders
• Loss of a loved one or pet
• Blended family issues
• Peer pressure
• Peer relationships
• Pressure to perform (in school, on the stage, or on the sports fields)
• Sexuality or gender issues
• Sibling rivalry

Symptoms & signs of mental health challenges in adolescents

Emotional symptoms

• Symptoms of overwhelming anxiety
• Symptoms of depression
• Lack of concentration
• Trouble performing in school
• False sense of bravado
• Mood changes
• Lack of concentration
• Behaviour changes
• A sudden change in marks or performance
• Damaging behaviour (to self, others, or property)
• Acting withdrawn – spending a lot of time alone
• Lack of interest in the world around them
• Trouble with the law or at school

Physical symptoms

• Weight loss or weight gain
• Headaches
• Frequent stomach aches
• Self-harm
• Changes in sleeping habits
• Common physical symptoms of anxiety or depression
• Substance use

When is it time to get help?

If you notice your child is exhibiting some of the symptoms listed above and their daily activities are being affected, or if you notice mood or personality changes, see their marks suddenly drop or a decline in their performance on sports teams or at other activities, are alerted by a teacher or coach’s concerns, or if your child just seems to be “off’, it may be time to seek help.

Adolescent challenges treatment methods

There are several effective treatment methods for treating the mental health challenges that teens may face. The therapist will discuss the best options for each individual’s circumstance. Some treatment methods that are typically successful in treating adolescents include:

• Psychotherapy is a broad term that encompasses numerous styles of therapy and uses verbal or nonverbal communication with a client to help treat psychiatric problems, behavioral issues, personality disorders, and various other types of emotional distress. This form of personal counselling is based on an interpersonal relationship, as opposed to the alternative chemical or physical forms of therapy.
• Mindfulness therapy is an approach to treatment that focuses on how people’s thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behaviour and how they perceive themselves, others, and the world. The ability to be in the moment, to acknowledge and regulate your emotions helps you to break free from negative thought patterns.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach to treatment that focuses on how people’s thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behaviour and how they perceive themselves.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a treatment method that’s similar to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) but emphasizes building skills to manage stress, emotional response and regulation, mental health issues, and the psycho-social aspects of relationship building.

What will my child get out of treatment with Insight Psychological?

Getting to the root of the issue is the best approach in helping your teen work through the stressors, challenges, and/or traumatic situations they may be experiencing. Meeting with a psychologist who specializes in adolescent and teen issues is a great first step to determine the best types of therapy for your child. Our child psychologists also treat children after traumatic events. If the child has just lost a parent or family member, or has been abused, it is advisable to have them see a psychologist. Professional help will allow teens who are struggling to process the traumatic event (if there is one) and transition into the new changes in their life.

Insight has many therapists that can support you on this journey. You can book online or call us to set up an appointment for counselling  – in-person, online (video), or telephone.