229 Manitoba Street, Bracebridge, Ontario P1L 1S2, Canada
When do young people need help?
How do I know when it is time to get help?
When Is It Time to Reach Out for Help?
Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth and challenge. From balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and friendships to navigating peer pressure, resisting substance use, and processing complex emotions, relationships, or news, it’s no surprise that teens sometimes feel overwhelmed.
As a parent or caregiver, it’s natural to wonder, “When does my teen need professional support?”
Teens may not always voice their struggles, but they often hope their parents will notice and take action. Recognizing and addressing mental health concerns early helps teens feel seen, supported, and understood. This builds trust, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and fosters lasting emotional well-being as they navigate the challenges of growing up.
What are the signs?
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Frequent anger, irritability, or family conflict.
- Stress, anxiety (including social anxiety), or impulsive behaviors like stealing or running away.
- Loss of interest in activities, lack of motivation, or low energy.
- Depression, crying spells, or low self-esteem.
- Physical symptoms like dizziness, irregular menstruation, or poor sleep, which may signal underlying issues like anxiety, depression, or eating disorders.
- Changes in eating habits (e.g., restricting food, binge eating, or avoiding meals).
- Self-harm indicators, such as wearing long sleeves in warm weather or repetitive injuries.
- Substance use or unusually high energy and racing thoughts.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities.
- Difficulty coping with major life changes, such as the loss of a loved one or moving schools.
- Difficulty focusing or staying engaged in conversations or activities
- Avoiding social interactions or significant changes in social behavior
- Unexplained physical ailments (e.g., headaches, stomach aches) that may be linked to stress or emotional distress
- Extreme mood swings or emotional outbursts that seem out of character
- Changes in academic performance or attendance
If you’re worried your child may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or an eating disorder, these signs can help you identify when to seek support.
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