10 signs that a teenager may have a mental health disorder

A guide to know if a young person may have a mental health problem.

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

Many adolescents changes and alterations in their moods, bodies and behaviors.However, these are not the only factors that can explain the appearance of certain mental health problems.

Adolescence and mental disorders

It should be noted that adolescents who have some kind of mental health problem do not usually express their concern about it directly, so it can be complex to get to the root of the problem.It may therefore be difficult for them to realize that something is wrong with them.

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

A turbulent life stage

Although abrupt mood swings are quite frequent during adolescence, we must be attentive, since they can be a warning sign of a problem with they can be a warning sign of an underlying mental health problem.. If these mood swings are extreme, with violent behavior or frequent crying, we could be dealing with a case that requires professional intervention.

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

The 10 signs that an adolescent has a mental health problem

In the words of Dr. Aaron Krasner, a psychiatrist who specializes in adolescent behavior and director of the Life Service at Silver Hill Hospital in New Cannan, Connecticut, 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 hold us back from providing the necessary help to adolescents, and we need to improve this."

One of the ways to improve the detection of behaviors, habits and specificities of young people that can warn us that he/she has some psychological condition is to describe the 10 signs that may indicate that something is wrong.

Self-harm, suicide attempts or self-destructive behaviors.2. Frequent changes in physical health or appearance.3. Aggressiveness, frequent anger and poor impulse control.4. New groups of friends not recommended.5. Changes in body weight.6. Neglect of personal hygiene.7. Inability to cope with problems or daily activities.8. Flirtation with alcohol or other drugs.9. Episodes of threats and problematic relationships.10. Frequent nightmares.

Other signs and observations to watch for

There are also other signs that, while not conclusive, may indicate that the adolescent may be suffering from some complicated situation. For example, if their school performance or behavior at home or at school has undergone a major change..

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

The importance of the family context

It should always be kept in mind that mental health problems during adolescence often have a negative impact on family dynamics, which can lead to tensions between several members of the family.and can lead to tensions between several family members. It is vitally important for the family to stay united and do everything possible to improve the adolescent's mood, both by promoting good harmony in the home and by seeking professional help if circumstances require it.

If you know a teenager who is going through a bad time and exhibits some of the symptoms and signs described above, keep your communication open with them and consult with a mental health professional.