Adolescent Mental Health Facts

Last Updated on January 7, 2021

Even if your child avoids incarceration, her emotional disorders could lead to diminished school performance (she may even drop out), substance abuse and addiction, risk-taking behaviors and dysfunctional social relationships.

How to Find the Care Your Child Needs

Many teenagers never get treatment for their disorders simply because parents or caregivers aren’t sure where to turn.

Counselors, psychiatrists and child psychologists can provide intervention and valuable treatment. Unfortunately, this approach does not work for many families combating teenagemental illness or behavioral problems.

Adolescents and teens are historically uncomfortable with and unwilling to open up in a one-on-one therapeutic environment. This occurs due to a lack of trust of adults, combined with their belief that their problems won’t be understood or will be minimized or dismissed.

What Works Best

Kids in this age group tend to fare much better in group settings and residential treatment, especially when more appropriate therapies are used. Experiential therapy has been proven especially effective, thanks to its immersive approach.

Equine therapy, art therapy and related treatment protocols allow teens to open up to the possibility of healing, and to master important strategies for overcoming their challenges.

If your child is struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges, don’t delay seeking professional help. Talk to a professional counselor in your area, or locate qualified residential treatment for troubled teens to discuss your child’s mental health.