Many teenagers face mental health challenges, with NHS data showing that about one in five young people aged 8 to 25 may have a mental health disorder. These problems often increase during the teenage years due to pressures like school exams, friendships, and growing independence. Biological factors also play a role.
According to Professor Andrea Danese, a child psychiatrist, teenagers’ brains develop unevenly-the emotional centers mature before the parts responsible for self-control, causing intense feelings that are hard to manage. Hormonal changes and shifts in sleep patterns during adolescence make emotions even stronger.
When Should Parents Be Concerned?
It’s normal for teens to experience mood swings, irritability, and some social withdrawal. Worry arises when these feelings start to interfere with daily life, such as missing school or avoiding activities they once enjoyed. Common issues include low mood and anxiety.
Parents are encouraged to support healthy routines-good sleep, regular meals, physical activity, and social connections. For anxiety, calming exercises like deep breathing and mindfulness can help. Avoiding excessive reassurance and instead encouraging teens to face their fears gradually is also beneficial.
How Parents Can Support Their Teens
Stevie Goulding from Young Minds advises parents to keep communication open, allowing teens to share their worries. If a teen prefers, parents should help them find other trusted people to talk to. Schools can also offer support and counseling services.
Child psychologist Dr. Sandi Mann recommends parents help build resilience by teaching teens that setbacks and mistakes are normal, encouraging them to make decisions, and challenging negative thinking patterns. Rather than rushing to fix problems, parents should listen and reflect what their child says
When to Seek Professional Help
Experts agree that professional help is necessary if a teen shows signs such as self-harm, suicidal thoughts, drastic changes in eating or sleeping, extreme personality changes, or if mental health issues severely disrupt daily activities. Dr. Elaine Lockhart of the Royal College of Psychiatrists encourages parents to feel comfortable discussing mental health and seeking help. The first step is usually a visit to a GP or school mental health teams, which can connect families to NHS services or local support organizations. While waiting for professional help, parents remain a vital source of support at home[Source].
Lucy’s Story: A Teen’s Journey with Anxiety
Lucy, 15, experienced panic attacks that began two years ago, affecting her school attendance and social life. After trying to manage on her own, her family sought cognitive behavioural therapy, which helped reduce the frequency of her attacks. Now, Lucy is more active and engaged, showing the positive impact of timely support and treatment[Source].
This guide aims to help parents recognize when their teen might need help and how they can provide support to improve their mental health and well-being.
