Adolescence is often a time of adjustment, finding one’s place in a world that is sometimes confusing and frightening. Many teenagers experience difficulties at home and school, while others need help coping with significant life events, such as the death of a loved one or family relocation. It can be difficult for a teen to experience stress as they may not have a lot of healthy coping skills just yet. It can also be common for emotional or behavioral concerns to arise in response to distress.

These reactions can sometimes be short-lived and may not significantly interfere with your teen’s daily functioning. Though there are times when a teen may not be able to cope with life’s pressures or traumatic experiences. You may be left wondering why your teen is suddenly exhibiting extreme changes in their mood or behavior and not knowing where to turn, therapy can help.

How Can I Know if Counseling Could Help?

Counseling can be helpful in a variety of situations and in response to many symptoms. If your teen is experiencing any of the following, therapy may help:

1. Behavioral Changes and Extreme Mood Swings. If your teen often engages in disruptive, explosive, or dangerous behavior, they may be asking for help. Your teen’s behavior may be due to depression, anxiety or trauma. Mood swings, ranging from extreme highs to extreme lows can be indicators of a mood disorder such as bipolar disorder.
2. Withdrawal and Isolation. Teenagers often enjoy the company of their peers. When your teen suddenly prefers to be isolated or avoids friends, it can be a red flag. These sudden changes can also be accompanied by changes in how your child speaks about themselves, such as stating; “I’m a loser,” or “Nobody likes me.”
3. Regression. Teens can regress in the face of a major change in their lives, such as parental separation or the birth of a new sibling. If you see unexplained or excessive regressive behavior, like excessive anxiety, complaining, it may be wise to consult with a professional.
4. Intense Worry. Fears and worries can be a part of adolescence. Constant worry, irrational fears, or extreme anxiety can be cause for concern. Excessive worrying and feeling chronically overwhelmed may interfere with your teen’s ability to function well at home, at school, and in the community.
5. Troubled Sleep and Weight Loss/Gain. A sudden change in your teen’s sleep habits or appetite can be an indication that they are struggling. Difficulty falling or staying asleep, frequent nightmares, low or excessive appetite, migraine, and indigestion can be signs of depression and/or anxiety.
6. Self-Destructive Behavior. A teen who practices repeated self-harming behavior, such as head banging, cutting, or hair pulling, may have no intent to end their life. Though not all self-injury is life threatening, this behavior often requires professional intervention.
7. Preoccupation with Death. A fixation on death can be concerning. Any plans or statements about committing suicide or harming another person is an indicator that immediate intervention is needed.
8. Substance Abuse. Some adolescents use drugs or alcohol to escape their perceived difficulties in life. This can be an unhealthy pattern at any age. Your teen may also start to neglect their physical health and hygiene. If your teen is abusing substances, it is likely time to seek professional help.

How Can Counseling Help My Teen?

Teen’s reactions to life’s stressors can vary, ranging from mild and short-lived to intense and long-lasting. When concerns are not resolved within a reasonable period of time, professional intervention is often recommended. Counseling can help teens to understand their feelings and develop the necessary skills to face them.

Therapy can also provide you with support, parenting is not easy! Your teen has unique needs, and it can be difficult to know how to support them during such a difficult time in their lives. Providing appropriate and timely counseling for a teenager exhibiting concerning behaviors/symptoms can be extremely beneficial for you and your child.

Taking Your Teen to Therapy

Watching your teen struggle can be remarkably difficult. You may be left feeling alone and unsure of what to do next. Finding the right therapist for your teen can be crucial to moving forward.

Turn to Carolina Counseling Services – West Fayetteville Office – Fayetteville, NC for help. The licensed, independently contracted counselors with CCS have the right experience and training to help your teen thrive. Teaming up with the right professional can help your child learn new ways to cope and live a happier, healthier life. Call now to request an appointment.

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