Many neurologists and psychologists say the brain is the final frontier in science, rather than space. The human mind goes through several evolutions throughout our lifetimes, but it’s in the adolescent years that the mind endures the most dramatic changes. Behavioral issues among teens are prevalent, but time and science have revealed that many young people who have behavioral problems may also be struggling with mental illness.
If you’re the parent of an adolescent with substance abuse and behavioral issues, you’re not alone. Indeed, there’s a high likelihood that your child has ADHD, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, or some other mental health problem. Mental illness isn’t a reason to celebrate, but a diagnosis gives troubled young people and their families hope for a solution. Continue reading to get some tips to help you give your child the help they need.
Learn the signs and symptoms of mental health problems.
The teen years are notoriously tumultuous. During this phase in life, people undergo dramatic physiological and psychological changes. Due to the seismic changes that occur during adolescence, it can be hard to recognize the difference between “teen rebellion” and deeper mental health or behavioral issues. However, if you know what signs to look for, you can get your child the help they need to prosper in adulthood.
A common sign of mental illness in teens is if they become withdrawn from their friends and family members. If they’re hanging around negative influences and falling behind in school, these could also be early indications of psychiatric issues. Other common signs of mental illness are insomnia, loss of appetite, overeating, sleeping too much, and substance abuse.
As you can see, many things that have traditionally been written off as typical teen behavior are actually signs of deeper problems. It’s important to do your own research to get more insights into different symptoms of mental illness in adolescents. The more understanding you have, the better advocate you can be for your child’s mental health.
Consider different mental health treatment options.
Mental health care has come a long way in recent years. There are more inpatient and outpatient treatment options than ever for young people with personality disorders and behavioral issues.
Often, outpatient talk therapy sessions with a psychologist are the only intervention an adolescent needs to overcome their problems. However, if your child has a more serious problem that’s leading to drug use, violent behavior, or suicide ideation, inpatient treatment is likely the best option.
Polaris mental health facilities for teens are among the best residential programs for young people with substance abuse problems and mental health conditions. Their certified psychiatrists and caregivers put together unique treatment plans to help young people to recognize their strengths and grow through their weaknesses.
Indeed, an inpatient program isn’t the best option for every troubled adolescent. However, you must do your due diligence and consider all options for getting your teen the level of care they need.
Be accepting, understanding, and supportive while remaining firm.
Adolescents struggling with mental health conditions or substance abuse require an extra level of patience. Even if you get them the mental health care they need, there will still be times when they struggle with their behavior. However, it’s important to be patient with your teen as they adjust to their medication and learn new strategies for managing their mental health problems.
Adolescents with mental health issues are much more likely than their peers to become young adults with legal problems. However, with the right mental health services, medication, and the support of their family members, many teens and young adults with mental illness have gone on to live exceptional lives. Things won’t improve overnight, and there will be some hard days, but your child is worth the fight.
