Teenagers experience many changes in the process of becoming young adults, from physical and hormonal to social, mental, and emotional. Mood swings and behavior issues are not uncommon, therefore it can be difficult for a parent to know when their teen needs counseling. Knowing the signs and symptoms of serious mental health issues in teens can ensure early intervention and better outcomes.
Counseling can be helpful for many teens regardless of any mental health condition or behavioral issues. Processing tough experiences, handling negative thoughts, and learning to improve self-talk with a licensed mental health professional can be stabilizing and encouraging for many adolescents. But if you notice your child’s issues have become severe, treatment can provide a pathway to healing that can make a significant difference in their lives.
What You’ll Learn
- How many teens are experiencing mental health issues?
- How do parents recognize typical teen behavior and when there may be a mental health concern?
- What are some signs my teen could use counseling or treatment?
- What are the different types of mental health professionals?
Quick Read
The teenage years are a tumultuous time filled with physical, emotional, and social changes. While mood swings and behavioral issues are common, it’s crucial for parents to recognize when these signs may indicate a deeper mental health concern. Counseling can be a beneficial resource for many adolescents, providing them with a safe space to process difficult experiences, manage negative thoughts, and improve self-talk. If a teen’s issues escalate, seeking professional help can pave the way for healing and significant life improvements.
Statistics reveal that mental health issues are prevalent among teens, with 1 in 7 children ages 10–19 experiencing such challenges. The most recent data from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says 40 percent of students have persistent sadness or hopelessness, and 20 percent have contemplated suicide. Parents should be vigilant for specific signs that may indicate their teen could benefit from counseling, such as persistent depressed mood, increased anxiety, social isolation, extreme irritability, and suicidal thoughts.
Understanding the causes of mental health issues in teens is essential, as they can stem from a combination of genetic, environmental, and personal factors. Adolescents face numerous stressors, including academic pressures, social dynamics, and family challenges, which can contribute to mental health conditions. Counseling can equip teens with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms and build resilience, especially when home and school struggles become overwhelming.
When considering counseling, parents should familiarize themselves with the different types of mental health professionals available, including psychologists, counselors, clinical social workers, psychiatrists, and nurse practitioners. Each has unique qualifications and areas of expertise, making it important to choose the right fit for their teen’s needs. Family support plays a vital role in recovery, and parents are encouraged to engage in open conversations with their teens about mental health, demonstrating care and understanding throughout the therapeutic process.
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How Do I Know If My Teenager Needs Counseling?
What’s the difference between the typical ups and downs of the teenage experience and a situation that requires therapeutic intervention? It’s not uncommon for teens to experience mental health issues. According to Behavioral Sciences, 1 in 7 children between the ages of 10 and 19 experiences a mental health issue, and some surveys have found that this number is closer to 1 in 5.
So, when should a teenager see a therapist? Counseling may be useful to your teen if they are exhibiting the following signs:
- Depressed mood that seems to be persistent or getting worse
- An increase in anxiety, such as irrational fear that prevents them from engaging in normal activities, constant spiraling or extreme worry, and possibly panic attacks
- Increased isolation
- Extreme irritability
- Angry outbursts that don’t match the circumstances
- A sudden change in friend group or social habits
- Sleeplessness, restlessness, racing thoughts, or intrusive negative thoughts
- Rapid speech and/or an exaggerated sense of self
- Inability to concentrate and/or easily distracted
- Aggressive behavior toward self or others
- Threats of violence
- Increased risk-taking behaviors
- Increased signs of distress, sadness, or hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts or plans
You shouldn’t wait for any of these symptoms to escalate into a crisis to seek out professional mental health counseling for your teen. Even if symptoms are mild or you think they’ll resolve on their own, it’s worth reaching out to find someone for them to talk to. It never hurts to encourage mental wellness for your teen, and it can improve their ability to ask for help when problems arise in the future.
Causes of Mental Health Issues That Require Counseling
What causes mental health issues in teens? Mental health conditions develop as a result of a number of contributing factors, including genetics, family history, personality, environment, personal experiences, or even medical conditions. Additionally, some medications can have mental health side effects, including suicidal thoughts, so a medical evaluation can be helpful in addition to counseling to see if a chemical imbalance is creating problems for your teen.
Teens experience a range of stressors as they learn how to find their place in the world and develop into adults. Academic, social, relational, familial, and athletic performance pressure can be a serious strain, and teens are also trying to craft a self-image and figure out their path for the future.
Understanding the Types of Mental Health Professionals
Mental health professionals who can provide teen counseling include psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, and more. It’s important to understand each provider’s qualifications and their ability to monitor your child’s health or manage medications. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, these are the types of mental health professionals who provide teen counseling, and the credentials they should have:
Psychologists
These professionals can make mental health diagnoses and host individual or group therapy sessions. They should hold at least one doctoral degree, typically a PhD or a PsyD, and they should be licensed by the licensure board of their state. They may have training in specific types of therapy.
Counselors, Clinicians, and Therapists
This group of professionals should have at least one master’s degree in a mental health-related field, and they should be trained in therapeutic techniques. Their licensure and certification may vary based on their state, but their credentials may include LPC, LMFT, LCADAC, or LMHC.
Clinical Social Workers
Like counselors, clinicians, and therapists, clinical social workers should have a master’s degree and be trained in therapeutic techniques. Their degree is in social work, giving them MSW credentials, and their credentials may include LICSW, LCSW, or ACSW. Social workers are sometimes connected with advocacy services or centers that can offer support for difficult circumstances (child protection, sheltering from domestic violence, crisis pregnancy housing, etc.).
Some types of mental health professionals can prescribe and manage medication for those with mental health conditions:
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who also have training in the mental health field, which gives them the ability to diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, monitor physical and mental health, and manage medication. They should have an MD or DO degree and should have also completed residency training in psychiatry.
Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
NPs can provide medical care, but they need a specialization in psychiatry to diagnose mental health conditions or provide therapy for mental health conditions or substance use issues. It depends on their state of residence whether or not they can prescribe medications or need to be supervised by a licensed psychiatrist. They have an MS or PhD in nursing, should be licensed nurses in their state, and may have credentials such as NCLEX or PMHNP-BC.
Primary Care Physicians
These professionals can provide medical care, but they do not specialize in mental health issues. They may, however, work with other mental health professionals to coordinate treatment and monitor medications. They should have an MD or DO and be licensed to practice in their state.
Psychiatric Pharmacists
These pharmacists specialize in mental healthcare and can provide an advanced level of medication management. They should have a PharmD degree and be licensed in their state.
Other Professionals
Social workers without a master’s degree, certified peer specialists, and pastors or clergy can also provide support and guidance. However, if you find that your teen is dealing with serious or life-disrupting issues, consult a professional with specialized training and credentials in mental healthcare.
Helpful Tips: Questions to Ask a Potential Therapist
Here are some questions to ask a teen therapist:
- What are your credentials and training?
- Do you specialize in mental health?
- What is your experience treating teens with mental health issues?
- How can therapy help my teen?
- What kinds of therapy do you offer?
- What am I allowed to know about what my teen is discussing with you?
- How do I talk to my teen after they have a therapy session?
- What can I do to support my teen and their mental health?
Family support can go a long way in helping teens recover from mental health issues. Your teen may not always want to talk about what they are going through, but it’s essential to let them know that you care and are present to listen.
Read: How to Talk to Your Teenager About Anything
Treatment for Teens with Mental Health Conditions
If your teen is experiencing life-disrupting mental health issues, Newport Academy can provide compassionate treatment to help them get back on their feet. Our research-backed program addresses the root causes of mental health conditions and substance use issues, supporting teens to develop an authentic sense of self and thrive in life.
We provide therapy to help your teen process issues, build resilience, connect with peers, and develop coping skills that will serve them throughout adulthood. Our academic component encompasses an accredited academic curriculum to ensure your child will stay on track with their studies. And through regular family therapy, we will support and guide your family through the healing process and provide tools for better communication and connection. Contact us today to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Refusal
Therapy can begin for children even at very young ages, depending on what they have experienced and what symptoms they have. Counseling is designed to help individuals cope in healthy ways, and it can prevent issues from becoming more severe. Teens who see a counselor even if they don’t have a diagnosed mental health condition become more familiar with the concept of mental wellness, which may improve their ability to manage symptoms and to ask for help in the future.
Therapy can improve your teen’s well-being, allowing them to process issues, learn healthy coping skills, and build resilience. Additionally, family support can go a long way in helping teens recover from mental health issues. Your teen may not always want to talk about what they are going through, but it’s vital to let them know that you care and are present to listen.
Signs of mental health crisis in a teen may include persistent or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, increased isolation, extreme irritability, sleeplessness, substance use, threats of violence, and an increase in risk-taking behaviors.
It’s not unusual for teens to see a therapist. Globally, 1 in 7 children is dealing with a mental health issue. Even if your child does not have a diagnosed mental health condition, seeing a therapist can help them develop coping skills and prevent any issues from getting more severe.
