Signs Your Teen Needs Counseling

Adolescence is a difficult time in any one's life and with the added social pressures of today's society, teens are facing new and different dilemmas daily.  Teenagers are trying to figure out who they are and what they are about while trying to fit into the crowd at the same time.  The high school years can be a trying time for identity development.  Counseling can benefit any adolescent by providing support and structure to aid in the identity development process yet there are some red flags in teenagers that may indicate the need for counseling.  Some of these red flags include the following:

• Changes in Peer Groups:  If you learn that your teen is switching friends or having different weekend plans than before, this can be a red flag.  One reason for a switch could be that your son or daughter experienced relational aggression or bullying.  Another reason for a switch in friends could be that your son or daughter has decided that he or she needs to be different and wants to explore other "roles" through different group types.  Sometimes your teen will switch friend groups because they are uncomfortable with the activities of the group.  A change in a peer group can be either positive or negative; and when it is a negative experience, your teen may need guidance.
• Academic Changes:  Has your teen's grades dropped suddenly?  Does your teen just not care anymore about school?  Is the teacher contacting you with concerns?  If the answer is yes to any of these questions, something bigger could be happening with your teen mentally.
• Mood Swings:  Yes, all teens can be dramatic and hormonal at times, but that's the key, at times.  If you notice your son or daughter has a shift in his or her mood that is out of character, trust your instincts and seek out counseling.
• Acting Out / Behavioral Issues:  Is your child acting differently or testing the waters at home?  Has your teen been in trouble either at school or in the community?  
• Physical Changes:  Is your teen sleeping too much or not at all?  Is your teen complaining of headaches or stomachaches?  Eating too much or not at all?  Is your teen neglecting his or her hygiene?  
• Alcohol / Drug Use:  If you find any indicators that your teen may be using alcohol or drugs to escape or make themselves feel better this shows a great need for help.

Sometimes it can be difficult to assess whether or not your teen is being normal or in need of help.  I always tell parents to air on the side of caution.  If you see any of the above symptoms, it is important to have your teen assessed by his or her pediatrician and by a counselor.  Your teen's school counselor can be a good resource as the school counselor can assess students and refer teens to local counselors.

Brought to you by www.thrivecounselingcenterllc.com.