Adolescence is a turbulent time of rapid physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. Teens are gaining independence just as their brains and bodies are changing, which can create “landmines” of stress. Common adolescent challenges include mood swings, identity exploration, peer pressure, and school demands. It can be hard to tell “teen angst” from clinical problems: for example, prolonged moodiness accompanied by other warning signs (like loss of interest or withdrawal) may indicate depression or anxiety. Risky behaviors – such as substance use, unsafe sex, or running away – often surface in troubled teens and may signal underlying issues like trauma, anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
Look for sudden or sustained changes in behavior. This might include loss of interest in hobbies, withdrawing from friends or family, dramatic changes in sleep or appetite, or intense mood swings. Other red flags are frequent anger or defiance, noticeable weight change or neglect of appearance, excessive secrecy, or signs of self-harm (cutting) or substance abuse. For instance, a teen who begins skipping school, stays up all night, and uses drugs may be coping with undiagnosed depression or trauma.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)