Important mental health signs to look out for in teens

Posted on August 3, 2018

Many teens are unaware of their mental states and fail to identify potential mental health problems. Even if they realize they need help, they may be too afraid to reach out for help due to shame. Therefore, these five warning signs are a good gauge for parents to look out for, in order for their children to seek professional help as early as possible.

1) Children stop expressing interest in things that were once entertaining for them.
Finding new interests is part of growing up, but when your child starts to lose interest without finding new ones, it is something to be concerned about.

2) Children's grades are dropping.
This is important if the grades are slipping even in classes that they are interested in, as it could be a sign of lack of motivation and subsequently, depression.

3) Children do not wish to discuss about the future.
This could be a possible sign of depression or even suicide ideation.

4) Children withdraw from their social circle and do not wish to talk to the people around them.
If your child is avoiding all social situations and events, it could be a sign of depression or anxiety.

5) Children skip meals, especially in front of other people.
A decrease in appetite could be a symptom of depression, and irregular eating patterns could be a sign of an eating disorder.
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Category(s):Mental Health in Asia

Source material from Mental Health First Aid