Teenagers have a lot going on in and around them. They are experiencing new bodily changes, new emotions and feelings which they had never felt before. To add to that the additional burden of increasing studies and pressure to choose one’s profession leaves one frustrated and confused.
While mood swings are common, some go through them more often than others and with much more intensity. There can be periods when teenagers are quite upbeat and positive about everything around them while at other times, they feel grim and sad. If the low periods last longer and affect the child socially or otherwise, it could mean that he/ she needs counselling or further help.
Some signs to look for in the child-
- Being withdrawn to an extent can be okay as it means that the child now needs space and time to him or herself to discover oneself, but if the child avoids all social contact including one with friends, it could mean trouble.
- Change in sleeping patters- Too little or too much sleep
- Change in appetite- Eating disorders are most common at this age, especially in girls. The body images that are portrayed all around us through media add to our children’s confusion and frustration about their own bodies and the way they look. Anorexia and Bulimia are common eating disorders which one needs to look out for.
- Signs of aggression, anger or self – harm
How parents can help children cope? –
- Give them the space that they require. Show confidence in them and their capabilities.
- Be vigilant but also trust your child and express your trust in every way possible.
- Keep communication channels open with your child
- Take regular breaks to be with them. Take family vacations to give them a sense of connectedness
- Keep them engaged in activities to keep their minds off any sort of negativity.
We at St. Mary’s, the best school in Kalyan, care about our children’s mental health and offer support in every way possible to ward off any serious mental health issues. We seek to work with our parents to keep each other abreast of any noticeable changes in their children’s behaviour inorder to take timely precautions.