More focus has been placed on teens' mental health challenges in recent years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have concerns about unusual changes in your teen’s health or behaviors, there are warning signs you need to know about.
At Revolution Psychiatric & Addiction Treatment, we make mental health services available to adolescents aged 13-17 who are struggling under the weight of depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions.
Richard Repass, MD, can also provide counseling and other therapeutic services for parents who need support as they face complex family challenges.
Teens may not feel comfortable telling you that they are struggling, but there are often warning signs that show up in their attitudes and behaviors. As it can be difficult to distinguish between typical teen behavior and a serious medical condition, we’ve highlighted some signs to watch for.
Here are six potential signs that your teen needs help:
Teens who feel depressed or anxious may change their daily habits, such as sleeping too little or too much, skipping meals, and not engaging in their favorite hobbies.
Mental health issues can make your child feel overwhelmed by their usual activities. They may frequently cancel plans with friends, avoid family members, and spend more time alone.
Anxiety, depression, and other untreated mental health issues can have a negative impact on a child’s academic success. They may stop doing homework, have a noticeable drop in their grades, or start skipping school.
Feeling overwhelmed can cause some teens to hit or cut themselves, leaving behind noticeable injuries or scars. They may resort to wearing long sleeves or pants to hide the marks, even when the clothes seem inappropriate for the weather.
Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs may be a choice your child makes to better cope with their emotions. Keep an eye out for intoxicated behaviors, missing alcohol or medications in the home, and hidden drug supplies in your child’s room or personal items.
In some cases, parents do everything they can to create a safe space for their teen to speak up about what’s bothering them. But kids with mental or emotional trauma may still refuse to discuss their issues freely.
Protecting your child’s mental wellness is just as important as protecting their physical health. If you feel your teen needs help, you can reach out to our Revolution Psychiatric & Addiction Treatment staff for help.
We can provide any guidance you need to talk to your teen about scheduling a mental health evaluation. Through the Washington State Healthcare Authority’s Family Initiated Treatment (FIT) program, you can access a comprehensive mental health evaluation and substance abuse assessment with Dr. Repass.
If you have urgent concerns about your child’s safety due to self-harm or suicidal threats, bring them to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911. Dr. Repass can meet with you to discuss your options for follow-up care for your teen, yourself, and other family members.
We offer a range of treatments, including psychiatric counseling and medications to help teens find lasting relief of mental health symptoms. Dr. Repass also specializes in addiction medicine to assist kids who are abusing alcohol or drugs.
Call us at Revolution Psychiatric & Addiction Treatment in Mercer Island, Washington, today to schedule a consultation for your teen.
