How do you know if your teenager needs to see a therapist?

Teenagers are not always able to articulate what they are feeling. At this age they are going through many changes, which include hormonal, psychological, physical, and social. It is common that we may see a child struggle at some point during these years. Complicating matters, teenagers may not verbalize these feelings to peers for fear of being different or to adults because they may feel they will not understand. Therefore, adults may need to look for behaviors that stand out to indicate a youth may be struggling emotionally.

The following are indicators a child may need to see a therapist:
• Extreme or intense anger
• Slip in grades
• Isolating
• Change of friends
• Low opinion of self
• Lack of interest in activities
• Anxiousness
• Change in sleeping habits
• Poor concentration
• Behavior challenges in school
• Talking about death and dying
• Change of eating habits
• Avoiding family
• Change of appearance

These behaviors may not mean there is a problem, but nonetheless would be important to broach the subject with a child. Showing a child you care and want to listen to them go a long way with teenagers. If this discussion does not put you at ease, it would be advisable to introduce them to therapy. Even though a teenager may initially be reluctant to go to therapy, it still would be beneficial. If a teenager establishes a good connection with a therapist, they will understand therapy is a safe place for them to discuss their problems.