Therapy treatment programs have become increasingly common these days, even for children and teens. This is actually a good sign because it means that young people are receiving the support for mental and emotional health they need to thrive and lead fulfilling, happy lives.
If you think your teen needs therapy, call 888.597.2807 to learn more about the teen therapy programs offered at Imagine Boise.
10 Signs Your Teen Could Benefit from Therapy
Here are ten signs your teenager would benefit from teen therapy. When parents connect their teens to an effective therapy program, it can make a world of difference to the happiness and well-being of both the teenager and the entire family.
1. Excessive Anger
Most teenagers exhibit specific emotional changes that parents may find challenging to deal with. However, some emotional challenges are more concerning than others.
If a teen is exhibiting explosive outbursts, excessive emotional overreactions, or any other ongoing pattern of dynamic behavior that parents find concerning, it’s a sign that a teen needs help.
2. Withdrawal
Changes in a teen’s temperament and behavior are always something to watch for. When a teenager stops normal interactions with family members or friends, it’s a warning sign they might be dealing with mental or emotional health concerns.
3. Academic Problems
If a teen’s school attendance, grades, or behavior is an issue, they may be struggling with symptoms that therapy can improve.
4. Legal Issues
Getting into trouble with the law is a serious sign that something is wrong, especially if it’s an ongoing pattern of behavior.
5. Substance Use
If you’ve caught your teen using drugs or alcohol, it may not be the first time. Therapy can help put a stop to teen substance use before it develops into an addiction.
6. Self-Harm
Self-harm is an unhealthy way of coping with overwhelming negative thoughts or emotions. “Cutting” with a razor blaze is one of the most common forms of teen self-harm. If you repeatedly see mysterious injuries, especially if your teen tries to hide them, it’s a sign they need help right away.
7. Disordered Eating
Disordered eating can take many forms. Some of the most common include:
- Binge eating
- Counting calories
- Eating very small portions
- Avoiding certain types of food
- Excessive exercise
- Using diet pills
These and other unusual eating patterns might signify that a teen needs therapy for disordered eating.
8. Depression
Depression isn’t always obvious, but some signs can be hard to miss. If a teen seems apathetic, withdrawn, or uninterested in things they used to enjoy, it’s a warning sign of depression. Also, watch out for concerning statements about death or wanting to die.
9. Anxiety
Many teens struggle with severe anxiety, and parents don’t always realize the stress they’re dealing with merits professional help. Therapy for teen anxiety can greatly impact a teen’s happiness, confidence, and academic success.
10. Cognitive Symptoms
Anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and more can lead to real issues with focus, concentration, memory, and other important cognitive functions.
Finding Help for Your Teen
The list above is just a starting point to help parents recognize some of the most common signs that therapy for teens might help. If you’re concerned about your teen’s actions or mental or emotional health, an evaluation at a teen treatment center can provide professional insight and peace of mind.
Teen Therapy at Imagine Boise
Imagine Boise offers therapy for teens between the ages of 12 and 17. We work closely with teens and their parents to identify the concerns a teen is dealing with and provide the resources that can help set them up to succeed.
If you’re wondering whether your teen needs therapy, call 888.597.2807 to discuss your concerns with a member of the treatment team at Imagine Boise.