As a parent, you want to make sure your child is safe and healthy. If they have a cold, it’s easy to know to take them to the doctor. If they break an arm, you know to take them to the hospital. How can you tell when your adolescent’s mental health is suffering? When is it time to see a therapist? Here are some tips for when to seek adolescent therapy in Minnesota or any other state.
Withdrawing
Has your adolescent child started withdrawing from the family? What about their friends? Pulling back from the people they normally enjoy spending time with could be a sign of mental health trouble. Slight pull back from the family may be a natural part of growing up, but if it’s excessive it could be a sign that your adolescent is struggling.
What about school? Not being involved in any activities could relate to feelings of isolation or depression. Slipping grades could also be a sign that your adolescent doesn’t care about school or can’t focus because of a mental health condition.
Lack of Energy
Everyone has a different natural energy level, but if your adolescent seems to have less energy than usual, take note. Conditions such as depression are known for decreasing energy. Pay attention to how much they are sleeping. Do they find it difficult to get out of bed? Do they never seem to sleep well? These are markers of an underlying issue.
Major Life Event
Therapy isn’t only for people with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Therapy can help anyone process overwhelming emotions. If your adolescent has suffered a loss, therapy can help them process the resulting grief or depression. However, it’s also a good idea to take your adolescent to a therapist after major life changes such as a divorce or unexpected move. Having a trusted source with whom to talk about their issues can help your adolescent process their emotions in a healthy way.
If you need adolescent therapy in Minnesota, contact Options Family & Behavior Services, Inc. Find them online at www.optionsfamily.com.
