Many mental health conditions begin during childhood or adolescence, yet a significant number go unnoticed or untreated. Research suggests that roughly one in five teenagers experiences a diagnosable mental health disorder, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or behavioral concerns. Because adolescence involves rapid biological, emotional, and social changes, distinguishing between typical development and emerging symptoms can be challenging. At Private Mental Health Group LLC, we help parents and caregivers understand early signs of mental health concerns and explore treatment options that support long-term well-being.

Request an Appointment

An Impressionable Age

Adolescence, generally spanning ages 10–19, is a sensitive period marked by major developmental milestones. Physical growth, hormonal shifts, new social dynamics, expanding independence, and evolving identity all shape how a young person feels, thinks, and behaves. These transitions can make children and teens more vulnerable to mental health challenges.

During this time, youth are also developing important life skills — such as emotional regulation, resilience, coping strategies, and interpersonal communication — that influence their ability to navigate stress. External factors such as peer pressure, social media, academic expectations, shifting identity, family stability, and cultural influences may also impact mental health.

Open communication is essential. Teens should know they can share concerns without fear of judgment. Caregivers can support them by being attentive, modeling healthy emotional expression, and noticing when behavior changes significantly. Although moodiness or confusion can be normal during adolescence, sudden or persistent changes may indicate a deeper concern.

Common Conditions

Mental health disorders commonly seen in adolescents include:

  • Anxiety – Excessive worry, nervousness, fearfulness, or panic that interferes with daily activities.
  • Depression – Prolonged sadness or loss of interest lasting weeks or longer, along with changes in appetite, sleep patterns, mood, or social engagement.
  • Eating Disorders – Behaviors such as restrictive eating, bingeing, purging, or intense fixation on body weight or appearance.
  • Substance Abuse – Misuse of alcohol or drugs influenced by peer pressure, emotional distress, or attempts at coping; often accompanied by behavioral or physical changes.

Other conditions that may emerge during adolescence include trauma-related disorders (such as PTSD), personality disorders, and early symptoms of schizophrenia.

Treatment

Mental health concerns in children and teens are often first recognized by parents, teachers, or pediatricians. A medical evaluation may be performed initially, followed by referral to a mental health specialist for a more detailed assessment.

Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and may include:

  • Individual, family, or group therapy
  • Medication management when appropriate
  • Behavioral and coping skills training
  • Support for emotional regulation and stress management
  • Lifestyle recommendations tailored to sleep, school performance, diet, and social functioning

At Private Mental Health Group LLC, we work collaboratively with families to create a supportive plan that meets the unique needs of each child or teen.

For more information about adolescent mental health or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office.