Counseling for Teens

During the adolescent years, crucial mental, social, and emotional developments occur which lay down the groundwork for healthy behavior patterns in life as an adult. We usually consider normal teen behavior as irritability, moodiness, and changes in social behavior. Though these are common markers of going through adolescence, they can also be signs of a more serious mental health disorder.

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According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one in five adolescents have a diagnosable mental health disorder, and more than one in four show mild symptoms of depression.

How to Recognize When Your Teen Needs Counseling

These mental health warning signs can be difficult to distinguish sometimes. We need to be exceptionally diligent as adults and monitor our teens closely. Because their brains are still developing, and because of the hormonal changes they are experiencing, they are more susceptible to mental health issues, such as depression. 

 

Adolescents are also more likely to utilize unhealthy or dangerous coping mechanisms to deal with their feelings, like drug use, self-­mutilation, or engaging in risky sexual behaviors. The short-­term side effects of an untreated mental health disorder in teens can be poor grades or tension within the family or other relationships. Some effects however are much more serious and irreversible. Suicide is the third highest cause of death for teens in our country. For many individuals dealing with a mental health disorder as an adult, symptoms first emerged in the teenage years.  If you suspect that your teen is experiencing something more than typical adolescent issues, consider counseling. Avenues has multiple providers in both the Medina and Akron Offices who work well with teens.