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Teen Mental Health: How to Know When Your Child Needs Help - HealthyChildren.org

For many teenagers, the transitions that accompany adolescence and other pressures can lead to one or more of a variety of mental health disorders. Here are signs parents and caregivers can watch for, and information to help know when they may need more support. 

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收录于

2026年3月25日

相关情境

Effective Communication with Adolescent

受众

parent

年级范围

九年级（高一）–十二年级（高四）

页面类型

Article

简介

Understanding and Supporting Teen Mental Health

  • Context: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) continues to recognize a national emergency in youth mental health, exacerbated by COVID-19 and ongoing societal pressures.
  • Common Stressors: Teens face significant pressure regarding academic performance, extracurricular success, bullying (including cyberbullying), climate anxiety, discrimination, and financial instability.
  • Warning Signs: Parents should look for persistent changes in "normal" behavior, including:
    • Changes in sleep, weight, or eating habits.
    • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or social withdrawal.
    • Academic decline or refusal to do schoolwork.
    • Signs of self-harm, substance use, or unexplained new social circles.
    • Obsessive goal-setting or irritability/anger.
  • Prevalence of Conditions:
    • ADHD: Affects nearly 10% of U.S. youth (ages 3–17).
    • Anxiety: Affects approximately 9.5%.
    • Depression: Affects about 4.5%; often manifests as anger or irritability in teens rather than just sadness.
  • Substance Use Statistics:
    • 15% of high schoolers report using street drugs.
    • 14% report misusing prescription opioids.
    • 30% have tried alcohol; 14% admit to binge drinking.
  • Communication Strategies:
    • Create a judgment-free zone: Ensure the teen feels safe to speak without fear of punishment or lecturing.
    • Listen more than you speak: Avoid "autobiographical listening" (filtering their experience through your own).
    • Use factual observations: Point out specific behaviors (e.g., "I noticed you haven't been eating dinner") rather than making broad, accusatory statements.
    • Accept silence: Allow the teen time to process; if they aren't ready, try again in a few days.
  • Professional Support: Pediatricians are primary resources for evaluating mental health, discussing treatment options (including medication), and providing referrals to specialists.
  • Key Takeaway: Mental health is as vital as physical health. Parents should avoid self-blame and view seeking professional help as a standard, necessary step for their child's well-being.
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