The New York Presbyterian Hospital website says some teen mental health issues can interfere with their daily activities and development, so parents must be vigilant in finding the cause. According to Science Daily, diagnosing psychiatric problems in teens can be difficult because their brains are still developing, causing moods and behaviors to change frequently. Adolescent Treatment Program medical director Dr. Norma Clarke at the Houston Menninger Clinic says teens may behave differently in the therapist's office, making it difficult to diagnose the problem.
Depression
Many teens suffer from varying degrees of depression, according to MedlinePlus. They may experience self-esteem problems, a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed, sadness for no apparent reason and discouragement. Some other symptoms of adolescent depression include restlessness, lack of motivation, lethargy, frequent tears, major changes in diet or sleep habits, and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts. Teens suffering from depression must see their doctors to rule out any physical problems. If there is nothing medically wrong with the child, get a referral for a mental health specialist who provide family therapy, individual therapy, medication or any combination of treatments.
Eating Disorders
The Teens Health website says approximately half of all students suffer from eating disorders, with extreme diets or exhibiting other disturbing symptoms based on a fear of gaining weight. The issues may be severe enough for a diagnosis of anorexia, bulimia or both. The teen may see himself as heavier than he actually is. Some people with eating disorders barely eat and may exercise excessively. Others eat vast quantities of food, then purge by vomiting or using laxatives. Family and individual therapy are generally the desired treatments for eating disorders.
Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
According to the National Mental Health Information Center, the three types of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder include hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive and attention deficit/hyperactivity. Symptoms vary and may start before adolescence. Look for a lack of attention to details, short attention spans, an inordinate number of mistakes, failure to complete tasks, easy distraction, lack of listening and lack of organization. Teens may be fidgety, unable to be still, impatient and interruptive and unwilling to take turns. Most youths with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder can benefit from behavior therapy, medication or a combination of the two.
Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders include phobias, general and social anxiety. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry advises parents to watch for frequent physical ailments, chronic worry about safety, refusing to go to school, clinginess, chronic nightmares, fear of being away from home overnight, fear of anything specific such as animals or doctors, being afraid of social situations and fear of making mistakes. Teens with anxiety disorders may be treated with medication, family therapy and individual therapy by a mental health professional.
