We all know that adolescence is a time of change in life and that, in many cases, problems and difficulties can arise.

Many adolescents present changes and alterations in their mood , in their body and in their daily behaviour and habits, but these are not the only factors that can explain the appearance of certain mental health problems.

Adolescence and mental disorders

It should be taken into account that adolescents who have some kind of mental health problem do not usually express their concern about it directly , which can make it difficult to notice that something bad is happening to them.

As part of the inseparable biochemical alterations of this life stage, adolescents often suffer severe changes in their mood, as well as the effects of volatile social relationships. It is at this time that we begin to disassociate ourselves from the protection of parents in order to start looking for links with friends of our own age, and welcoming references in other areas of life: teachers, television idols, musicians…

A Vital Turbulent Stage

Although abrupt mood swings are quite frequent during adolescence, we must be vigilant, since they can warn us of an underlying mental health problem . If these mood changes are extreme, with violent behaviour or frequent crying, we could be facing a case that requires professional intervention.

20% of adolescents, according to official figures, develop a psychopathology. Most of them also debut before the age of 15, but are not referred to a mental health professional until years later, when the problem may have become entrenched and is more difficult to treat.

The 10 Signs That a Teenager Has a Mental Health Problem

In the words of Dr. Aaron Krasner, a psychiatrist specializing in adolescent behavior and director of the Life Service at Silver Hill Hospital in New Cannan, Connecticut, he explains

“Only one in five adolescents with mental health problems is detected and referred to the appropriate professional (psychiatrist or psychologist) to treat their need. There are cultural elements that stop us from providing the necessary help to adolescents, and we must improve this”.

One of the ways to improve the detection of the behaviours, habits and specificities of young people that can warn us that they have some psychological condition is to describe the 10 signs that can indicate that something is wrong .

Self-harm, suicide attempts, or self-destructive behavior.

2. Frequent changes in your physical health, or appearance

3. Aggression, frequent anger and poor impulse control.

4. New groups of friends not recommended.

5. Changes in your body weight.

6. Neglect of personal hygiene.

7. Inability to cope with problems or daily activities

8. Flirting with alcohol or other drugs.

9. Episodes of threats and problematic relationships.

10. Frequent nightmares.

Other signs and observations to take into account

There are also other signs that, although not conclusive, may show us that the teenager may be suffering from some complicated situation. For example, if their school performance or behaviour at home or at school has undergone a significant change .

Another obvious sign is depressive symptoms, especially when mood and heaviness last for more than three weeks. This can also go hand in hand with lack of appetite, sleep disturbances or problems, and recurring thoughts of death, according to Krasner.

The importance of the family context

It should always be taken into account that mental health problems during adolescence often have a negative impact on family dynamics , and can cause tension among several family members. It is vitally important that the family remains united and does everything possible to improve the adolescent’s state of mind, both by promoting good harmony in the home and by seeking professional help if the circumstances require it.

If you know a teenager who is having a hard time and has some of the signs and symptoms described above, keep your communication open with him or her and consult a mental health professional.