Often parents are unsure of the difference between "normal
teenage behavior" and behavior that requires professional help.
Teenagers suffer many challenges in daily life. At school, teens are
pressured to succeed by parents, teachers and themselves. Peers and the
media may be pushing a teen to try alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. At
home, there may be stress due to unsafe neighborhoods, violence, gang
activity and sibling or parent relationships. Teenagers often haven’t
yet learned to cope with these pressures and can be overwhelmed by their
emotions. A teen may not ask for help. It’s up to parents and adults
to be alert for signs that there is a potential problem.
Behavior changes and symptoms that may require professional help are:
- Changes in school performance
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits
- Changes in friends or lack of social activities or friends
- Suspected substance abuse
- Anger and aggression towards self and/or others
Each teenager is different. Parents need to be alert for changes that
indicate their teenager is not dealing well with stress on a daily
basis. Parents should be aware of what is happening in the community and
with the peer groups of their teens. If there has been recent violence,
such as a death of a school-aged child, a recent suicide or other
traumatic event, parents need to keep the lines of communication open
with their teenagers and allow them to express their thoughts and
feelings. If changes are noticed that are of concern, parents may
contact their family doctor, local health department, community mental
health department or counseling center to discuss the need for referral
to a family counselor or other support person.
