From mood swings to school issues, all teens have difficulties. Occasionally, a teen's distress might rise to a level where it's imperative to seek professional assistance. However, therapy doesn't need to be reserved for life-altering events or severe mental health problems. Meeting with an adolescent psychiatrist can also prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.

Top reasons that teens enter therapy

A teen's mood swings could benefit from meeting and talking to a mental health provider, so a caregiver should not hesitate to arrange an appointment with a professional. Talk to the family pediatrician or schedule an appointment directly with a psychiatrist. Occasionally, a few short therapy sessions can make a significant change to a teen's overall well-being.

Teens often benefit from meeting with an adolescent psychiatrist to talk about a diversity of topics, ranging from relationship issues to inquiries about sexual identity. Here are just a few of the many reasons that a teenager may enter therapy.

1. Depression

Mood disorders frequently start during the teen years. If left untreated, depression can last into adulthood. If a teen seems unusually sad, irritable, and withdrawn, talk to a pediatrician. An accurate diagnosis and early involvement are critical components for effective treatment.

2. Anxiety disorders

While it is ordinary for teens to worry occasionally, some teens experience intense anxiety. Whether a teen has trouble speaking in front of the class or is constantly worried that bad things are going to happen, therapy could help a teen learn how to manage symptoms.

3. Behavior problems

Suspensions from school, aggressive behavior, or repeat curfew violations may be symptoms of a more serious issue. A psychiatrist might help uncover potential mental health issues, skill deficits, or social problems that may be driving a teen's behavior.

4. Substance abuse issues

Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol can become a severe problem for teenagers. A substance abuse counselor can measure a teen's substance use and help choose the most appropriate course of treatment. Individual therapy, detox, group therapy, or residential treatment might be options, depending on the severity of the teen's problems.

5. Stress

Teenagers can be stressed out by many things, like concerns about what they will do after high school or pressure to perform well on an examination. Stress takes a severe toll, and it can lead to mental health problems when managed ineffectively. Therapy can teach teenagers skills that they can use to manage stress successfully. These skills will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

6. Social and school-related problems

Teacher-related issues, social cliques in school, failing grades, and bullies are just a few of the things that teenagers deal with. Therapy can provide support for these kids and teach them skills that they can use to navigate high school life.

7. Legal issues

Fighting, stealing, and underage drinking are only a few of the reasons that a teen might find themselves in trouble with the law. At times, the courts might mandate the teen to receive counseling. Therapy can help teach teenagers how to make healthier choices in the future to avoid getting into legal trouble. It can be as simple as teaching them basic skills like how to set boundaries so they do not succumb to peer pressure.

8. Low self-esteem

Most teens struggle with their confidence at one point or another, but some end up with severe self-esteem problems. Low self-esteem leads to a higher risk of issues like failing academically and substance abuse. Therapy can be an effective way to boost a teenager’s self-esteem.

9. Trauma

Traumatic events like sexual assault or near-death experiences can significantly impact a child’s behavior. Therapy can help reduce the effects of such traumas and make teenagers more resilient. Early intervention increases a teen’s odds of successfully recovering from traumatic experiences.

Get your teen the help that they need

Teens deal with grief a little differently than adults, and the loss of a loved one can be particularly severe during adolescence. Individual, group, or family therapy can help teens sort out feelings and make sense of trauma and grief. Also, while most teens deal with self-confidence issues at one time or another, some encounter serious self-esteem problems. When those concerns are left unaddressed, teens are at a higher risk of issues such as academic failure and substance abuse. Therapy can help boost a teen's self-esteem.

If you are questioning treatment for a teen, err on the side of caution and contact a professional adolescent psychiatrist. If your teen isn't interested in therapy, however, don't worry. Many teens are hesitant to talk to someone. Encouraging your teen to try therapy for a couple of sessions will allow them to decide whether to stop or continue.

If they outright refuse counsel, you can be the one to talk to a psychiatrist. You may be able to gain new ideas and skills for helping your child cope better.

Become a new patient today or give us a call: 631-673-3233.