Teenagers go through a lot during adolescence, from fluctuating hormones, to new friendships, to social, emotional, and cognitive changes. While moodiness, irritability, and isolation can be typical teenage behaviour, they can also be warning signs that something else is going on with your teen. Mental health issues can surface at any age, and it’s important to know what to look for as a parent. Here are 10 red flags in teenage behaviour and how to cope and help your teen.
10 Red Flags in Teenage Behaviour & How to Cope
1. Sudden and Significant Changes in Mood
If your teen’s mood swings are extreme and frequent, it may be a sign of underlying emotional or mental health issues. While moodiness can be a typical teenage behaviour, if their moodiness is interfering with their everyday life, lasts for weeks, persists in all situations (with friends, parents and at school), it’s possible there’s a mental health condition underneath those mood swings.
2. Withdrawal From Family and Friends
If your teen suddenly starts isolating themselves from their loved ones and social activities they once enjoyed, it could be a sign of depression, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties. If your teen is spending a lot of time in their room, they may be interacting with peers on social media. While sometimes this can be positive, other times, they could be dealing with cyberbullying, comparison, or tech addiction.
3. Poor Academic Performance
A noticeable decline in school performance, accompanied by a lack of motivation, could indicate issues such as learning disabilities, substance abuse, or emotional distress. This is especially true if your teen was once a flourishing student before. Be on a lookout for any slipping grades, as this could be a sign of anxiety, depression, or being bullied.
4. Risky Behaviours and Lack of Interest in Activities They Previously Enjoyed
If you notice your teen has started engaging in risk-taking activities, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or promiscuous behaviour, this can also be a red flag for potential problems. On top of this, you may notice they no longer show interest in activities they used to love, such as playing an instrument, spending time with friends, or sports like tennis or dance. A switch in activities is something you should pay attention to.
5. Changes in Eating or Sleeping Patterns
Significant changes in appetite, weight, or sleeping habits may suggest that your teen is dealing with emotional or psychological challenges, such as an eating disorder or depression. Many teens become obsessed with their weight and body image, and if you’re worried your teen has developed an eating disorder, professional help should be sought out immediately.
6. Irritability, Anger, or Aggression
Unusual levels of anger, aggression, or violence towards others can indicate underlying emotional or behavioural issues that require attention. Increased anger or aggression are absolutely red flags that should be taken seriously. Common triggers for anger include feeling disrespected, inadequate, or misunderstood by parents. Anger can also be a secondary emotion that masks emotions like guilt, shame, or grief.
7. Self-Harm or Talk of Suicide
If your teenager engages in self-harming behaviours or expresses thoughts of suicide, it’s crucial to take these signs seriously and seek immediate help. Look out for signs of self-harm, such as unexplained cuts and bruises (often on the arms, thighs or torso), wearing clothes that cover up the skin (long sleeves or pants, even in hot weather), blood stains on clothing, towels, or bedding, and having objects such as razors, safety pins, or lighters in their possession. This can be very scary to deal with as a parent, and involving a professional can be very helpful and is encouraged.
8. Substance Abuse
Experimenting with drugs or alcohol, frequent intoxication, or evidence of substance use can be warning signs of addiction or underlying emotional difficulties. Signs of substance abuse can include blood shot or watery eyes, extreme moodiness, irritability, poor hygiene, secretive behaviour, problems in school, and sleeping more than usual or staying in bed all day.
9. Drastic Changes in Appearance or Personal Hygiene
A sudden disregard for personal hygiene, drastic changes in style, or engaging in self-destructive behaviours can be indicators of emotional distress. If you notice your teen stops doing things such as brushing their teeth, taking regular showers, or cleaning their room, it could indicate that something’s wrong.
10. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness
If your teen exhibits signs of prolonged sadness or hopelessness, it could be a sign of depression or other mental health issues. If your teen is expressing that they feel hopeless or worthless, this should be taken seriously, and it’s worth bringing them to a mental health professional to help them work through these feelings.
How to Cope as a Parent
It can be really difficult to deal with a teen’s changing mood and behaviour, especially if the behaviour seems dangerous or worrisome. It’s important to approach the situation with empathy, open communication, and a focus on seeking appropriate support. Pay attention to the specific behaviours or changes in your teen that concern you. Take note of the frequency, severity, and duration of these behaviours. This will help you better understand the situation.
Be sure to always maintain open communication. Create a safe and non-judgmental space for your teen to express their feelings and concerns. Listen actively and validate their emotions. Encourage them to share what they’re going through, and assure them that you’re there to support them.
Encourage healthy coping strategies. Help your teen explore healthy coping mechanisms and stress-management techniques, such as exercise, hobbies, mindfulness, or talking to supportive friends. Encourage them to engage in activities that promote their well-being.
If the red flags persist or escalate, it’s important to involve a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counsellor, or psychiatrist. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and appropriate guidance for your teen’s specific needs. Some red flags, such as disordered eating, substance abuse, self harm, and talks of suicide should be taken to a professional as soon as you notice them.
Spotting red flags in teenage behaviour can be scary and overwhelming to deal with as a parent. We hope these tips help you recognize any red flags and how to cope with them the best you can.
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