If your teen’s behavior includes the behaviors listed below, talk to him about what he is going through or find a trusted adult to take on the task. Behaviors that parents and guardians should look out for among teens include:

 

• Missing days in school or poor school performance

• Avoiding friends and social life

• Losing interest in activities

• Not having motivation for fun or exciting activities

• Sleeping disturbances, including insomnia and nightmares

• Not sitting still or focusing on tasks

• Seeming chronically anxious or worried

• Lacking energy or oversleeping

• Bouncing between moods of no-energy and hyperactivity

• Actions of self-harm, including cutting, picking, burning, biting, or hair pulling

• Having suicidal thoughts or actions

• Being irritable or unreasonable constantly

• Engaging in manic and risky behavior such as car races, unsafe sex, or dangerous thrill-seeking activities

• Feeling like an external entity is controlling their thoughts or actions or hearing voices

• Smoking, taking drugs, or drinking

 

Keep an eye on your teen to see if they exhibit the warning signs listed above, and talk to them about any behaviors that concern you.

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We look forward to working with your teens!