The Silent Struggles: Signs Your Teen’s Mental Health Needs Attention

The teen years can be a rollercoaster of emotions, but how do you know if your teen’s mood swings, withdrawal, or irritability are just part of growing up—or signs of something deeper? I’m Dr. Charnetta, Board-Certified Pediatrician, Communication Strategist, Parenting Educator and I’m deeply passionate about helping families thrive during the wild, wonderful journey of raising tweens and teens. Anxiety, depression, and burnout in teens often manifest in subtle ways, and as parents, it’s crucial to recognize these signs before they escalate.

Why This Matters

According to the CDC, more than 40% of teens reported experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness, and nearly 1 in 5 have seriously considered suicide. The pressures of academics, social media, friendships, and self-identity can create overwhelming stress, often leading to silent struggles that parents may not immediately recognize.

The Warning Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Teens

1. Changes in Sleep Patterns

   • Sleeping too much or struggling with insomnia

   • Frequent napping or difficulty waking up

   • Complaints of feeling exhausted despite getting enough rest

2. Withdrawal from Family & Friends

   • Spending more time alone than usual

   • Avoiding social interactions or skipping activities they once loved

   • Communicating less with family members

3. Unexplained Mood Swings & Increased Irritability

   • Frequent frustration over small things

   • Overreacting to minor inconveniences

   • Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness

4. Changes in Eating Habits

   • Sudden weight loss or gain

   • Skipping meals or binge eating

   • Loss of interest in favorite foods

     
     

5. Decline in Academic Performance

   • Drop in grades or missing assignments

   • Complaints about difficulty focusing or loss of motivation

   • Increased anxiety about schoolwork

6. Physical Symptoms with No Clear Cause

   • Frequent headaches or stomach aches

   • Complaints of muscle pain or fatigue

   • Increased visits to the school nurse

7. Loss of Interest in Hobbies

   • Abandoning activities they used to enjoy

   • Expressing feelings of boredom or apathy

   • Saying things like, “Nothing excites me anymore.”

8. Increased Use of Screens & Social Media

   • Using social media excessively to escape reality

   • Constantly comparing themselves to others

   • Showing signs of cyberbullying or online conflicts

9. Self-Destructive Behaviors

   • Engaging in reckless activities (substance use, self-harm, risky behavior)

   • Expressing thoughts of self-hatred or worthlessness

   • Writing or talking about death or disappearing

     
     

What You Can Do

• Start the Conversation: Create a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about their feelings. Use open-ended questions like, “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately. What’s been on your mind?”

• Monitor and Support: Pay attention to their routines, behavior, social interactions, and google searches..

• Encourage Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Exercise, journaling, mindfulness, and creative outlets can help (Check out my journal for teen girls HERE).

• Seek Professional Help: If signs persist or worsen, consider talking to your pediatrician or seeking  therapy/ counseling.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Mental health struggles in teens can be hard to detect, but with awareness and open communication, you can provide the support they need. If you notice any of these signs, trust your instincts and reach out. Your teen’s well-being is worth every conversation and every effort to help them navigate life’s challenges.

You’re not alone, and neither is your teen. Let’s keep the conversation going.