Clinical psychologist explains how you can tell if something is wrong with teenagers. These are the seven signs that your child may have mental health issues.
No matter how close you are, there will probably be times when the child doesn't want to open up or when you don't spend as much time together. Of course, it is not possible to be with your child all the time but many times you have to trust your instinct – if your child seems down or if you are worried about their mental health.
Consultant clinical psychologist Melinda Rees who is herself a mother of three teenagers, explains how you can tell if something is wrong with your child.
1. They withdraw socially
Constantly avoiding social events can be a sign that something is wrong."If you notice that your child is spending less time with friends and family members and more time alone, this could be a warning sign – especially if he previously had several close friends to spend time with.
Going for a walk with your child or sitting together in the front seats of a car, while carrying it somewhere, it's a good occasion to gently start a conversation".
2. They feel constantly tired
Everyone wants to lie down here and there, but notice how tired your child is. “It's normal for teenagers to want to stay up all night and sleep, but if your child seems to be mostly exhausted, he has a really hard time waking up and is too tired to participate in activities he used to enjoy, this is a warning sign.
Empathizing with their struggle, instead of facing it, it will help him feel that you are more secure to trust you".
3. They are constantly on the internet
“Most teenagers now spend most of their social interaction online, using apps like TikTok, Snapchat, BeReal and Instagram", explains the psychologist."But spending many hours every day on these platforms can distort their perception.
If your child seems upset or upset after being on their phone, but refuses to part with it, the content he consumes may be negatively affecting his mental health. Check your child's phone, most have settings you can change to limit screen time”.
4. They skip family meals
Put them all around the table. "Family meals are a great opportunity for everyone to share their news and talk about anything that worries them", suggests the clinical psychologist.
“If your child is consistently avoiding these meals, it may be because he is trying to hide something that is bothering him. It could also be a sign of an eating disorder – a common symptom of these conditions is finding excuses not to eat in a group setting".
5. They get angry or cry unexpectedly
Is your child often on the verge of tears?; "The regular outbursts of anger or tears at the slightest occasion - or seemingly for no reason- it's a sign that your child is having trouble processing their feelings or is struggling to deal with certain thoughts and feelings. Remember to give both of you plenty of time to calm down before approaching it.”.
6. They have started to give up their hobbies
"Be alert when your child chooses to give up things he used to enjoy doing. If your child suddenly decides to quit the sports team, his clubs or hobbies without explanation, especially if he previously loved going or participated for years, parents should pay attention to this and find out why they gave up their hobby".
7. Their schoolwork slips away
A single bad grade may mean nothing, but ongoing changes in grades and behavior at school may signal a problem.
“Staying in regular contact with your child's teachers is important for all parents, as they often notice changes in your child's behavior and attitude towards schoolwork before anyone else.", says the psychologist.
"If a professor starts expressing concerns about declining grades it may be more than just laziness or poor organizational skills".
Source: dikaiologitika.gr
