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The brain-changing benefits of exercise | Wendy Suzuki

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The brain-changing benefits of exercise | Wendy Suzuki

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Wendy Suzuki: The brain-changing benefits of exercise | TED

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How stress affects your brain - Madhumita Murgia

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How stress affects your brain - Madhumita Murgia

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How stress affects your brain - Madhumita Murgia

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF | Steve Harvey Jump Motivational Speech

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF | Steve Harvey Jump Motivational Speech

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF | Steve Harvey Jump Motivational Speech

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How to Build Self-Esteem – The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden

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How to Build Self-Esteem – The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden

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How to Build Self-Esteem – The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden

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Meet Yourself: A User's Guide to Building Self-Esteem: Niko Everett at TEDxYouth@BommerCanyon

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Meet Yourself: A User's Guide to Building Self-Esteem: Niko Everett at TEDxYouth@BommerCanyon

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Meet Yourself: A User's Guide to Building Self-Esteem: Niko Everett at TEDxYouth@BommerCanyon

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Every teenager NEEDS to hear this! (2020)

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Every teenager NEEDS to hear this! (2020)

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Every teenager NEEDS to hear this! (2025)

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Unlocking the Adolescent Mind: Insights from Dr. Siegel

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Youth Mental Health is not as complicated as we make it out to be | Dr. Hayley Watson | TEDxRAIUL

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Youth Mental Health is not as complicated as we make it out to be | Dr. Hayley Watson | TEDxRAIUL

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Youth Mental Health is not as complicated as we make it out to be | Dr. Hayley Watson | TEDxRAIUL

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Self-Love, be Intentional | Caitlyn Roux | TEDxYouth@CapeTown

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Self-Love, be Intentional | Caitlyn Roux | TEDxYouth@CapeTown

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Self-Love, be Intentional | Caitlyn Roux | TEDxYouth@CapeTown

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Why You Think You're Ugly | Melissa Butler | TEDxDetroit

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Why You Think You're Ugly | Melissa Butler | TEDxDetroit

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Why You Think You're Ugly  | Melissa Butler | TEDxDetroit

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Youth Mental Health is not as complicated as we make it out to be | Dr. Hayley Watson | TEDxRAIUL

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Youth Mental Health is not as complicated as we make it out to be | Dr. Hayley Watson | TEDxRAIUL

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Stop the Stigma: Why it's important to talk about Mental Health | Heather Sarkis | TEDxGainesville

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Stop the Stigma: Why it's important to talk about Mental Health | Heather Sarkis | TEDxGainesville

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Stop the Stigma: Why it's important to talk about Mental Health | Heather Sarkis | TEDxGainesville

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Rewriting the Stigma of Mental Illness | Paige Freeman | TEDxYouth@SAS

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Rewriting the Stigma of Mental Illness | Paige Freeman | TEDxYouth@SAS

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Rewriting the Stigma of Mental Illness | Paige Freeman | TEDxYouth@SAS

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Why students should have mental health days | Hailey Hardcastle

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Why students should have mental health days | Hailey Hardcastle

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Why students should have mental health days | Hailey Hardcastle

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What Your Grades Really Mean | Eva Ren | TEDxEdenHighSchool

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What Your Grades Really Mean | Eva Ren | TEDxEdenHighSchool

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What Your Grades Really Mean | Eva Ren | TEDxEdenHighSchool

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Teen stress from a teen perspective | Michaela Horn | TEDxNaperville

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Teen stress from a teen perspective | Michaela Horn | TEDxNaperville

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Teen stress from a teen perspective | Michaela Horn | TEDxNaperville

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Overcoming Anxiety | Jonas Kolker TEDxTheMastersSchool

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Overcoming Anxiety | Jonas Kolker TEDxTheMastersSchool

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Overcoming Anxiety | Jonas Kolker | TEDxTheMastersSchool

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Emotional Intelligence From a Teenage Perspective | Maximilian Park | TEDxYouth@PVPHS

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Emotional Intelligence From a Teenage Perspective | Maximilian Park | TEDxYouth@PVPHS

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Emotional Intelligence From a Teenage Perspective | Maximilian Park | TEDxYouth@PVPHS

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I Am Depressed | Dianna Paige | TEDxAllendaleColumbiaSchool

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I Am Depressed | Dianna Paige | TEDxAllendaleColumbiaSchool

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I Am Depressed | Dianna Paige | TEDxAllendaleColumbiaSchool

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Teen Brains Are Not Broken | Roselinde Kaiser, Ph.D. | TEDxBoulder

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Teen Brains Are Not Broken | Roselinde Kaiser, Ph.D. | TEDxBoulder

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Teen Brains Are Not Broken | Roselinde Kaiser, Ph.D. | TEDxBoulder

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The Pieces To A Depressed And Broken Teenager | Aaron Ugalde | TEDxMoreauCatholicHS

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The Pieces To A Depressed And Broken Teenager | Aaron Ugalde | TEDxMoreauCatholicHS

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The Pieces To A Depressed And Broken Teenager | Aaron Ugalde | TEDxMoreauCatholicHS

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The Truth About Teen Depression- TedxYouth

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The Truth About Teen Depression- TedxYouth

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The truth about teen depression | Megan Shinnick | TEDxYouth@BeaconStreet

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Protecting Teens from Addiction to Technology

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Protecting Teens from Addiction to Technology

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Addiction to technology is real. Numerous studies over the past decade have shown that tech dependence has the same effect on the brain as drug addiction.

This is bad news in a nation where more than 90 percent of teenagers use social media and play video games -two of the most addictive forms of technology.

In fact, technology addiction statistics reveal that 50 percent of teens feel that they are addicted to their smartphones. And that's just the ones who admit it.

What Is Tech Addiction?

Addiction to technology is also known as Internet Addiction Disorder, Compulsive Internet Use, Problematic Internet Use, and iDisorder. While it is not recognized as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, it is becoming increasingly common. Some studies suggest that as many as 38 percent of people in the United States and Europe may suffer from tech dependence.

According to a growing body of research, technology use triggers pathways in the brain in the same direct and intense way that particular substances affect a drug addict's brain. Specifically, technology use, particularly games and social media, increases the release of endorphins and dopamine, catalyzing the craving for another rush. Moreover, this constant overstimulation shifts the nervous system into fight-or-flight mode, which disturbs the biological and hormonal systems-resulting in mood and mental health disorders.

Consequently, in 2018 the World Health Organization classified gaming disorder as a mental health condition. And the effects of technology on mental health include not only addiction, but also teen depression and anxiety.

Furthermore, adults with a history of drug abuse are more likely to experience addiction to technology. And research shows that teens with Internet addiction are also prone to substance abuse and eating disorders. In other words, the tendency toward addiction can encompass various forms of addictive behaviors and substances-including addiction to technology.

Tech Dependence and Technology Withdrawal Symptoms

Teens who suffer from addiction to technology feel extreme anxiety when separated from their digital devices, video games, and social networking sites. Hence, their emotional symptoms mirror those seen in substance abuse and drug withdrawal.
Signs of Tech Dependence

Preoccupation with social media, video games, or other digital activities

Sadness, anxiety, restlessness, and/or irritability when separated from digital devices or deprived of Internet access

Inability to reduce time spent using technology, despite problems caused by it

Loss of interest in offline activities that they previously enjoyed

Lying to family members or others about the amount of time spent on computer gaming or other online activities

Using technology to relieve or self-medicate negative moods, such as guilt, anxiety, or hopelessness

Ignoring personal hygiene, eating, and other self-care as a result of ongoing tech use

Losing a job, losing a relationship, or doing poorly in school as a result of technology dependence.

Depression and Technology Dependence

The research is clear on the link between technology and mental health: Teens who use social media and play video games are more anxious and depressed. However, experts aren't certain whether teen depression stems from too much tech time, or if overuse of tech is a symptom of depression. Either way, it's a vicious cycle that creates a perfect storm for addiction to technology.

Nicholas Kardaras writes about technology dependence in his book Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction Is Hijacking Our Kids-and How to Break the Trance. According to Kardaras, addiction, in general, is "less about the particular substance or behavior than about the underlying perfect storm of genetic, psychological, environmental and neurobiological factors that make a person ripe for addiction."

In the case of tech dependence, kids who are isolated and in pain are particularly vulnerable to onscreen experiences that help them feel a sense of escape and connection. Furthermore, Kardaras writes, those children may be drawn to other addictive substances "once they taste digital drugs."

Treatment for Addiction to Technology

The first step in preventing addiction to technology is reducing dependence on the Internet. One study found that technology itself can be harnessed to help teens avoid addiction. A team at Cornell Tech tested a tool that triggered smartphone vibrations every five seconds when a participant stayed on the Facebook app past a predetermined time limit. In their study, participants spent 20 percent less time on Facebook while using the reminder tool.

In addition, a digital detox can support teens in reducing tech dependence. Unplugging from the constant stimuli offered by the digital world gives a teenager's nervous system a chance to rebalance. Moreover, disconnecting creates space and time for IRL (in real life) activities, like connecting with friends, spending time in nature, and being more physically active.

Creating healthy habits around tech use is essential for teens. However, a serious addiction to technology, like an addiction to substances, requires professional treatment. That's because it's almost always a symptom of underlying issues, such as trauma, low self-esteem, attachment issues, and depression.

At Newport Academy, our teen treatment programs address these core issues. Teens can heal from tech addiction just as they heal from substance abuse: through clinical approaches and experiential therapy that help them find balance and build positive coping skills for the long term.
Sources: Data Brief. 2018 Dec; 21:1216-1219.
J Addict Med. 2012 Mar;6(1):77-84.
Nature. 1998 May 21;393(6682):266-8.

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Teens and Tech: New Research on the Dangers of Screen Time

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Teen tech addiction is a real concern. Teens consume an average of nine hours of media a day and 50 percent feel they are addicted to their smartphones.

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Social Challenges Your Teen May Face (and How to Help)

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Social Challenges Your Teen May Face (and How to Help)

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As teens grow into adulthood, they can face some physical, mental, emotional, and social challenges. Their bodies change, they must overcome strong emotions, some suffer from mental health issues, and many deal with social issues as well. If your teen is having trouble making or keeping friends, you might feel stress regarding the situation. Read on to find out about some of the social challenges many teens face as well as tips on how to help adolescents get past these obstacles.

Social Anxiety

Some teens develop social anxiety. This is a type of anxiety that creeps up in social situations or when a teen needs to speak publicly. For example, they might find themselves getting very anxious over the very thought of giving an oral report in a class at school. Some teens do well when they are with their close friends but get anxious when they need to meet new people, attend a function filled with strangers, or otherwise interact outside of their comfort zones.

The symptoms of social anxiety include:

Fear of being judged

Feelings of humiliation and embarrassment

Physical symptoms like shaking, flushing, sweaty palms, and nausea

Refusing to take part in social activities

Refusing to do common activities like using a public restroom, interacting with a clerk at a store, or eating in front of other people

Some lifestyle changes that might help include journaling and using relaxation exercises. If your teen's life is being negatively impacted by social anxiety, however, it's best to take him or her to a mental health specialist. Cognitive behavioral therapy and, in some cases, medication can help.

Bullying (Including Cyberbullying)

Approximately one-quarter of students report being bullied. Among preteens and teens, cyberbullying is common. Cyberbullying is a type of bullying that takes place via an electronic device or the Internet. It can include:

Cruel texts

Posting images or text on social media

Impersonating a victim

Forwarding embarrassing information to others via electronic messaging

Many teens who find themselves bullied (online or otherwise) won't speak up and tell their parents. But they might become ostracized at school among their peers. Some bullied teens have even attempted or completed suicide due to their bullying, so it's important to know the signs that a teen is being bullied.

If your teen does confide in you, encourage them or help them to report it. Depending on the situation, bullying might be a crime. Even if it's not a criminal matter, you might be able to report it to the school for them to handle and/or to online service providers to have the accounts banned when cyberbullying is an issue. Don't be afraid to seek professional counseling for your teen too if bullying is one of the social challenges that they are facing.

Peer Pressure

There are different types of peer pressure.

One type that is considered positive is positive peer influence. This is when teens who are hardworking, active, and doing well in school influence others to do the same. While it sounds great, this type of peer influence can cause stress and overwhelm in teens who find it difficult to keep up.

Another type of peer pressure is considered negative, and that's when teens pressure or influence others to do things like try alcohol or drugs, shoplift, or have unprotected sex, which can result in an unplanned pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection.

Teens who have low self-esteem might be particularly swayed by either positive or negative peer influence. Even teens who have a good self-image, however, can be vulnerable to peer pressure; kids this age often just want to fit in and since many teens feel awkward at times, that can make even a normally cautious teen act out in ways that their parents might not expect.

Talk to your kids about your boundaries and let them know that there are consequences for broken rules. Knowing that mom or dad is not going to hesitate to implement consequences for poor behavior can be a good deterrent. Also, encourage your teen to get involved in productive activities (a sports team, a volunteer group, the school play); teens who feel involved and part of a community are less likely to engage in destructive practices like trying alcohol or getting into trouble with the law.

Depression

While you might not think of depression as a social issue, it often becomes one when those with the condition begin to isolate themselves from others. If your teen is depressed, it's likely that he or she might avoid situations where they need to leave the house or entertain guests, instead choosing to stay in bed or immerse themselves in a fantasy world such as with video games.

Other symptoms of depression include:

Sadness, tearfulness, or uncharacteristic anger that lasts for more than two weeks or that interferes with your teen's daily life.

Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep at all.

Eating too much or not having an appetite.

Physical symptoms such as stomach aches, digestive problems, headaches, or muscle pains.

Talking about death and dying, trying to procure weapons, or other signs that they might be considering suicide.

A teen with depression who is isolating him- or herself might need professional mental health care. There are some lifestyle changes that you can encourage them to make, such as exercising each day, getting out in the sun daily, eating well, getting enough sleep, and making plans with others. If these don't work, however, or if your teen is showing signs of suicidal thoughts, get them professional help promptly.

Social Challenges Can Be Overcome

Social challenges that teens face can be stressful not only for the teens themselves but also for their parents. You want nothing more than to see your child grow up into a well-adjusted adult, and if they are struggling with social anxiety, bullying, peer pressure, or depression, it can seem that a happy social life might be very far off. Take consolation in knowing that these social challenges can be overcome and that the best time to get help for them is during the teen years, well before the pressures of adulthood begin.

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Social Challenges Your Teen May Face (and How to Help)

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As teens grow into adulthood, they can face some physical, mental, emotional, and social challenges. Their bodies change, they must overcome strong emotions, some suffer from mental health issues, and many deal with social issues as well. If your teen is having trouble making or keeping friends, you might feel stress regarding the situation.

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Top 10 Social Issues Teens Struggle With Today

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Top 10 Social Issues Teens Struggle With Today

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Social issues are problems that affect large groups of people and can affect how well a society functions. Teens can face social problems just like adults can. They may even be more susceptible to these challenges because their brains are still developing and their bodies are changing quickly. Social issues and what we might think of as "teenage problems" can affect emotional and physical health.

Advances in technology also mean that today's teens are facing new and different social issues. Electronic media has changed or amplified some teenage troubles: Digital communication has changed the way teens interact with their peers and romantic interests, for example.

Digital life also means that many teens lack essential interpersonal communication skills like knowing how to pick up on social cues. Much of this dysfunction can be linked to the use of technology (but on the flip side, virtual socializing and learning were essential during the COVID-19 pandemic).

Teens' social media and texting habits are changing the way they communicate, date, learn, sleep, exercise, and more. The average teen spends over eight hours each day using electronic devices.

While not all social issues are linked to technology, many have complicated relationships with tech and media use. These are the top 10 social issues teens struggle with every day.

Depression

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 4.1 million adolescents in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2020. That means 17% of American teenagers may experience depression before reaching adulthood. Data from NIMH also shows that depression is much more prevalent in female teens (25.2%) than male teens (9.2%) and among teens who reported two or more races (29.9%).

Spending too much time on electronic devices may be preventing young people from in-person activities with their peers, such as sports, which can help ward off depression. They also experience new conditions like "fear of missing out" or FOMO, which further leads to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Depressive disorders are treatable, but it's important to seek professional help. If your teen seems withdrawn, experiences a change in sleep patterns, or starts to perform badly in school, schedule an appointment with your teen's physician or contact a mental health professional. Do not delay getting help for your teen if you notice these symptoms.

About 22% of teens in the U.S. experienced bullying in 2019, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Research suggests that social media has made bullying much more public and more pervasive. Cyberbullying has replaced bullying as the most common type of harassment that teens experience.

To help guard against these kinds of teenage troubles, talk to your teen about bullying regularly. Discuss what they can do when they witness bullying and talk about options if they become a target themselves. Being proactive is key to helping your child deal with a bully.

It's also important to talk to your child about when and how to get help from an adult. Talking about how someone has humiliated them is never an easy topic. But asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it's a show of courage.

Sexual Activity

In the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) survey, 38% of high school students reported that they had ever had sex; 27.4% said they were currently sexually active. That represents a decline over the past decade (46% had ever had sex in 2009; 34% were currently sexually active).

The teen birth rate has declined over the past decade as well. In 2020, the teen birth rate was 15.4 (births for every 1,000 females ages 15-19), a decline of 8% from 2019 and 75% from the 1991 peak of 61.8. These teen births accounted for less than 5% of total births.

The decline in pregnancy doesn't necessarily mean teens are using contraceptives, however. Just over half of sexually active teens reported using a condom in their last sexual encounter, according to YRBSS data, while about 31% used hormonal birth control and 9% used both.

Parents may not be aware that their children are sexually active. Talk to your teen about sex and the importance of safe sex practices, even if you don't think your child is engaging in sexual activity.

In 2021, about 3% of teens surveyed (in 8th, 10th, and 12th grades) reported using marijuana daily. Marijuana use exceeds cigarette use in teens now, and is at its . In fact, many teens believe marijuana is less harmful now than in years past. This new perception may be due to the changing laws surrounding marijuana.

Teen use of other substances is declining, according to the Monitoring the Future Survey published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. While this decline has been noted since the survey began in 1975, decreases in 2021 were "steep and atypical."

Still, it's important to have regular conversations with your teen about the dangers of drugs. And don't forget to mention the dangers of prescription drugs, too. Many teens do not recognize the dangers of taking a friend's prescription or popping a few pills that are not prescribed to them.

Teens often underestimate how easy it is to develop an addiction. And they don't understand the risks associated with overdosing. Be sure you are talking about these risks on a consistent basis.

Alcohol Use

As of 2021, alcohol use and binge drinking continued to show a significant decline among teenagers. Still, 26% of high school seniors surveyed still report drinking alcohol within the past month.

Talk to teens about the risks of underage drinking. Educate them about the dangers, including the fact that alcohol can take a serious toll on a teenager's developing brain. Also, do not shy away from expressing your disapproval of underage drinking. Saying you don't approve can make a big difference in whether your teen decides to drink.

About 22% of 12- to 19-year-olds in the U.S. are obese, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data. Hispanic and Black children are more likely to be overweight or obese than White or Asian children.

Overweight children and teens are often targeted by bullies. Obese kids also are at a much greater risk of lifelong health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. They also may struggle with body image issues or develop eating disorders as an unhealthy way of changing their appearance.

Talk to your child's pediatrician about the weight and body mass appropriate for your teen's height and age and inquire about the steps you can take to ensure your teen is healthy. Then, if your doctor does recommend a healthier eating plan or exercise, find ways to support and empower your teen.

Academic Problems

About 5% of high school students drop out of high school each year in the United States, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. A high school dropout is likely to earn $200,000 less over his lifetime when compared to a high school graduate, which can have a significant impact on a young person's future.

But it's no longer just "troubled teens" who are dropping out of school. Some teens feel so much pressure to get into a good college that they burning themselves out before they graduate from high school. Stay involved in your teen's education. Provide support and guidance and be ready to assist your teen if they encounter problems.

Peer Pressure

While peer pressure has affected teens for generations, social media brings it to a whole new level. Sexting, for example, is a major cause for concern; many teens do not understand the lifelong consequences that sharing explicit photos can have on their lives.

But sharing inappropriate photos is not the only thing kids are being pressured into doing. Teens face pressure to have sex, use drugs or alcohol, and even bully others. To keep your kids from falling victim to peer pressure, give them skills to make healthy choices, and to resist peer pressure.

Also, talk to teens about what to do if they make a mistake. Sometimes, kids may be afraid to seek help when they make poor choices. It's important that your teen feels safe coming to you when they have a problem. Demonstrate that you can listen without judging or overreacting and instead find healthy ways for them to make amends and move on.

Social Media

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be great ways for teens to connect with one another, but social media can be problematic for several reasons. Social media can expose your teen to cyberbullying, slut-shaming, and so much more. And, while there are some benefits to social media, there are a lot of risks as well.

Social media can have a negative impact on friendships and is changing the way teens date. It can even impact their mental health. And no matter what precautions you take, teens are likely to be exposed to unsavory people, unhealthy images, and sexual content online.

Help your teen learn how to navigate social media in a healthy way. Talk about ways to stay safe online. And most importantly, know what your teen is doing online. Educate yourself about the latest apps, websites, and social media pages teens are using and take steps to keep your teen safe. You may also want to take steps to limit your teen's screen time.

On-Screen Violence

Teenagers are going to witness some violent media at one time or another. And it's not just TV, music, and movies that depict violence. Many of today's violent video games portray gory scenes and disturbing acts of aggression. Over the past couple of decades, studies have linked these violent images to a lack of empathy and even aggressive behavior.

Other studies have shown the number one factor in determining how kids relate to media is how their parents think and act. That means the more violence parents watch, the more likely they are to think it's OK for their kids to view.

Pay attention to your teen's media use. Don't allow teens to watch R-rated movies or to play M-rated video games. It's not healthy for them to consume that material in excess and unsupervised.

Also, talk to your teen about the dangers of being exposed to violent images and monitor your teen's mental state. It's also important to talk about sexual situations and racial stereotypes that your teen might see.

Teens need to learn how to identify what is good and what is bad about the media. It helps them become a healthier consumer when they can think objectively about what they are seeing online, in the movie theater, or in a video game.

How to Talk to Your Teen

Bringing up any difficult subjects with your teen can feel uncomfortable. And your teen isn't likely to respond well to a lengthy lecture or too many direct questions. But having a conversation with your teen about social issues and other teenage troubles is not something you should shy away from.

Even when it seems like they are not listening, you are the most influential person in your teen's life. It is important to lay a strong foundation before the window of opportunity closes.

A good way to strike up a conversation about drugs, sex, vaping, or other uncomfortable situations is to ask a question like, "Do you think this is a big issue at your school?"

Listen to what your teen has to say. Try not to be judgmental, but make your expectations and opinions clear. It is important that your teen understands that you don't condone certain behaviors and that they know the consequences of breaking your rules.

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The Top 10 Social Issues Teens Face in the Digital World

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Teens face a lot of problems, from cyberbullying to sex to academic and peer pressure. Here are some of the biggest social issues teens experience today, and how you can help with teenage troubles.

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It's important for parents to understand what mental health issues can look like for children, and better recognize when an issue is a routine rite of passage for an adolescent, and when it is more serious. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say studies reveal that children aged 3 to 17 years identify as having a current diagnosis of the following:

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (6.8%)

Behavioral or conduct problems (3.5%)

Anxiety (3.0%)

Depression (2.1%)

Autism spectrum disorder (1.1%)

The CDC also says that among adolescents aged 12 to 17, 4.7 percent have partaken in illicit drug use in the past year, with 4.2 percent identified as having alcohol abuse disorder. "Suicide, which can result from the interaction of mental disorders and other factors, was the second leading cause of death among adolescents aged 12 to 17 years in 2010," the CDC says.

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, research shows that half of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14.

So how do you know when your child's behavior needs more attention and help? And what should you do?

"One of the first signs that your child is entering adolescence is a push for privacy and independence. They are reaching a stage in their development where they are gaining more of an understanding of 'self' apart from the family," says Dustin Webb, administrator of Texas Health Behavioral Health. "They want to be able to show that they have an identity that stands apart from the family. This is actually a necessary step in order for them to learn how to become adults."

So that eye-rolling, that insistence on being dropped off and not walked in someplace-all of it is fairly normal. "They get more embarrassed to be around parents," Webb explains. ""Don't take it personally. It all comes from a need to have their own identity that isn't reliant on their parents."

"This doesn't mean that they no longer enjoy time spent with family. While they may be slow to admit it, they still love and need family." Webb continues.

"If you find that your child has lost interest in his normal activities or is spending less time with friends, take note. If he seems to be sad or angry a lot of the time, this could be an indicator of something beyond typical teenage moodiness."

"While it is normal for teens to go through ups and downs and to be easily upset about things that may seem more trivial to you and I, do pay attention to certain warnings signs," Webb said. "Has it gone on longer than normal? Have you noticed behavior changes that seem out of character? They could be an indicator of an emotional or mental problem needing to be addressed."

Of course, other more serious incidents would require professional help.

"It's helpful to know what is okay to let go and what is concerning. Symptoms to look out for include feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, decreased interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities, changes in energy and/or concentration, a decrease in school performance and changes in sleep or appetite, just to name a few. If your child begins to harm herself, begins taking risks that could endanger her or expresses thoughts of wanting to die, these could be signs of serious emotional and mental distress that need immediate attention."

Another area to consider is substance use. If you notice that your teen has had a fairly sudden change in friends, or you notice that he begins to have anger outbursts, this could also be a sign of drug use. If you suspect that this may be involved, it can be helpful to approach this topic with the help of a mental health professional.

"If a teenager is going to deal with a mental illness, it can manifest well into his 20s," Webb said. "In fact, some of the more severe mental disorders can begin in the late teen years and early 20s."

If you are concerned, NIMH recommends reaching out to your child's primary care doctor as a first step.

"Ask questions and learn everything you can about the behavior or symptoms that worry you. If your child is in school ask the teacher if your child has been showing worrisome changes in behavior," the agency says. "Share this with your child's doctor or health care provider. Ask if your child needs further evaluation by a specialist with experience in child behavioral problems. Specialists may include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, and behavioral therapists. Educators may also help evaluate your child."

So how do you support your child if they are diagnosed with a mental illness? In short, Webb says, keep talking.

"If you believe that your child may need help, seek out professional support. Maintain open and honest communication with him along the way. Be sure that he knows that you care and are working to help him have a happy life."

Often, Webb says, the stigma attached to mental illness causes parents to shy away from advocating for their child when needed. "If your child had juvenile diabetes, a parent likely would take great care with her school to be sure that they understand how to support them. What we often see with something like depression or anxiety is that parents want to keep it quiet and certainly don't approach the principal or teachers about it. What they may not see is that they are perpetuating the stigma of mental illness and role modeling to their child that this is something to be kept quiet and ultimately to be ashamed of. The best thing a parent can do is to treat it like any other issue that needs help and to be open and honest with all involved. This normalizes it for others and most importantly for their child."

And while all this sounds overwhelming, Webb says there are support groups filled with fellow parents going through the same things that can give advice, or just a hearing, empathetic ear. ""We find that a lot of people aren't aware of the resources out there meant to help support their child and also them. Most communities have support groups for children and their families. There is currently a wealth of education and support online as well, including forums where peers educate and support each other."

"Beyond support groups, there are treatment centers and outpatient mental health professionals in many cities that can treat mental and substance use disorders," Webb continues. "Most of these programs have family programs that help to educate them on how to be of support. If you aren't sure where to start, SAMHSA has an abundance of resources and a facility locator. I would encourage any family member to explore their site."

The biggest tip, Webb says, in knowing when something is more amiss than the usual travails of growing up, is communication. "Ultimately, the best approach is to keep communication going with your child. Allow her to initiate it whenever possible, and do your best not to judge what she says. This will help with trust and encourage her to be more willing to bring their struggles to you when they happen."

"Be real. Don't be afraid to go deep. Allow space for the difficult topics, like puberty, peer pressure, bullying and sex. These are part of their experience, and they need to see that you understand that."

"After all, if we think back, we went through many of the same things in our adolescence. We needed to know how to navigate them, and our younger selves surely would have wanted to know that our parents were there to support us if we were struggling. If we do this, our kids will see us as someone on their side - and when they need help, they reach out to someone on their side."
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, call the helpline at 682-236-6023, available 24/7.

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Kids can be kids, and sometimes their reactions and responses reflect that. And teenagers and preteens, in particular, are notorious for conflict with parents and family members as they learn to navigate hormones, a bigger desire for independence, and increased responsibilities at school and home.

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Given the ups and downs of teenage emotions, it can be hard for a parent to know whether a teen's difficult phase is due to teenage angst or depression. In fact, 40 percent of parents have a hard time distinguishing between mood swings and teen depression, according to a national poll conducted by the Mott Children's Hospital in 2019.

Therefore, it's helpful for parents to understand the differences between teen angst and depression.

What Is Teen Angst?

Unlike depression, which is a mental health disorder, there is no medical definition for teen angst. Angst is a word for worry or dread. Since teen angst is brought about by feelings of insecurity or apprehension, it's not unusual for teens to experience this feeling. Given the physical changes and emotional turbulence that characterize the experience of being a teenager, angst is a common reaction to many situations-whether it's a math test, a sports event, or a challenging friendship.

Indeed, teen angst can be part of the process of evolving and maturing into a healthy adult. Although it's not easy to experience tension and frustration, it can actually help teens learn more about how to navigate and regulate their emotions. And that's more likely to happen when parents understand what teens are going through and support them in processing their feelings.

Determining Whether It's Teenage Angst or Depression

Unlike teen angst, teenage depression is a potentially life-threatening mental health condition. Mental health professionals highlight the importance of not downplaying behaviors that might be symptoms of depression in teenagers. Research shows that 50 percent of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by the age of 14. Moreover, half of all teenagers with a mental health condition never receive any treatment whatsoever.

In addition, when left untreated, adolescent mental health issues become adult mental health issues. According to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, 75 percent of teenagers who experience a depressive episode during adolescence later struggle with depression, other mood disorders, and/or substance use disorder as adults.

Given such statistics, the question of how to recognize depression in teenagers is a crucial one to ask. Parents do not need to sound the alarms every time a teenager has a mood swing, but they do need to pay close attention to what's happening.

How to Recognize Depression in Teenagers

To distinguish between teenage angst and depression, mental health professionals examine three critical areas of concern. These areas of concern are:

The intensity or severity of the problematic feelings and behaviors

The duration, or length of time, of these experiences when they occur

The domains, or experiences, that define the boundaries of what is happening.

The Three Domains of Mental Health Disorders

Intensity or Severity: Is the intensity of the symptoms interfering with a teen's everyday life, including family life, social activities, and school? Gauging the intensity and the severity of the issue helps parents distinguish between a passing condition and a mood disorder.

Duration: Are the moodiness and difficult emotions ongoing, or does it only crop up now and then? In other words, are the symptoms chronic and consistent, or are they unusual? When they do arise, how long do they last-days? Weeks?

Domain: Often, a teenager shows symptoms of teen angst around authority figures like parents or teachers. But then the symptoms disappear when they're with their friends. However, teen depression makes itself known in nearly all situations and circumstances. Thus, if the symptoms arise in several domains, such as home, at school, and with friends, this indicates a greater likelihood of a mental health condition.

What to Do About Symptoms of Depression in Teenagers

If a parent recognizes symptoms of depression in a teenager, the best course of action is to access professional help and make sure the teen has a comprehensive mental health assessment. Early diagnosis and treatment of depression and any co-occurring disorders improves treatment outcomes. Hence, the sooner parents learn to distinguish whether their child is suffering from teenage angst or depression, the sooner that child can be on the road to recovery.

Sources:
JAMA Pediatr. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2005 Jun;62(6):593-602. Mott Poll Report 2019;173(4):389-391.

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Is it Teenage Angst or Depression? | Newport Academy

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Given the ups and downs of teenage emotions, it can be hard for a parent to know whether a teen's difficult phase is due to teenage angst or depression. In fact, 40 percent of parents have a hard time distinguishing between mood swings and teen depression, according to a national poll conducted by the Mott Children's Hospital in 2019.

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"What Is Teenage Angst & When To Be Concerned From A Psychologist Who Knows" Alicia H. Clark, PsyD

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"What Is Teenage Angst & When To Be Concerned From A Psychologist Who Knows" Alicia H. Clark, PsyD

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If you're the parent of a teen, chances are you have had plenty of occasions to feel frustrated, confused and worried about how s/he is behaving. That is just how parenting teens goes - as they struggle, we do too. And one of the most important struggles we can have is determining what is teenage angst vs. what is something more concerning.

What is teenage angst

We are all familiar with the teen stereotype. Teens hide themselves in hoodies, walk with a slouch, grunt in response to questions from adults, play loud music, and can be strong-willed, insecure, and rebellious.

Angst is a concept derived from existential anxiety referring to anxiety about one's existence. Although different for everyone, teenage angst is generally understood to encompass the range of normal insecurity and stress related to the profound biological changes teens undergo.

Some of these changes are obvious because they affect the size and shape of our teen's bodies and voices. The fact that our teens struggle at times with these changes is easy to understand because we can see the changes too. Their bodies develop quickly, their voices change, and their skin often becomes an intense focus as their hormones drag their young bodies to adulthood.

Other changes are happening internally. Teenagers' brains go through tremendous growth and rewiring, a phase of growth second only to infancy. As the teen brain neurologically "updates," the "lower" more emotional regions update before the "higher" more cognitive ones.

Because of this linear brain development, teens are exposed to intense and mature emotions without the benefit of a fully mature thinking brain. The part of the brain that manages insight, judgment and behavioral control (the prefrontal cortex) will take many more years to fully update.

Teens feelings therefore are intense, driving powerful creativity and motivation, but also frustration and overwhelm. These emotional changes can be scary for teens, and are fundamental to how we understand what is teenage angst.

Angst can span a gamut from normal insecurity to more acute feelings of anxiety or apprehension that can be accompanied by depression. It can also be a frustrating, painful and frightening challenge for parents as well, as we can struggle to understand what is teenage angst, and what is something more serious.

Clarifying the range from normal to more serious can help parents feel more confident navigating this complicated developmental stage.

What is "normal" adolescent angst

For parents, the teen years are rife with our teens exhibiting some or all the following:

Feeling short-tempered

Emotional swings

Taking risks

Feeling self-conscious

Needing to spend more time with their friends

Physical pains

Playing loud music

Messiness

Rudeness

Sleeping more

When to be concerned about your teen's anxiety

Whenever "normal" teen angst seems more extreme, parents need to pay attention. The intensity and duration of the behaviors can help a parent recognize when something is more serious. It can help to consider your teen's behavior in terms of loudness from whispering to chattering to yelling.

Typical teen angst falls into the whispering to chattering category. When it reaches the yelling category, it is time to step in.

Teen behaviors that fall into the yelling category include:

Persistent complaints of anxiety, depression, fear, worry, or nervousness

Fears that don't make sense

Persistent trouble sleeping

Cannabis use

Fixation on media

Drinking - especially binge drinking

Avoidance of people or activities that were once enjoyable

Angry or aggressive outbursts

Teen angst is a normal and varied experience for every teen, and parents need not feel confused about what is teenage angst. Despite how confusing, frustrating or anxiety provoking your teen's behavior might seem, remember some degree of discomfort is necessary for your teen to endure this intense time of growth.

Keeping communication lines open can help you and your teen maintain the connection you both need to provide critical ballast during this time of transition. Despite their emerging independence, remember your teen still needs your support and love.

Trust yourself to judge what is normal teen angst and what is something more serious. You know your child best, and maintaining your connection is one of the most powerful strategies you can employ to weather their angst.
Looking for more help understanding how anxiety can be a tool rather than a burden? Check out my Anxiety Myths Navigator and discover the 12 key anxiety myths that are holding you back and how reframing your thinking can change your relationship with anxiety, and your life. Offered at a huge discount for a limited time, claim your spot here. Photo by Mikail Duran on Unsplash

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What Is Teenage Angst & When To Be Concerned From A Psychologist Who Knows - Alicia H. Clark PsyD

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If you're the parent of a teen, chances are you have had plenty of occasions to feel frustrated, confused and worried about how s/he is behaving. That is just how parenting teens goes - as they struggle, we do too. And one of the most important struggles we can have is determining what is teenage angst vs.

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Teens experience many of the same mental health issues as adults. However, many teens go undiagnosed and untreated, even though most conditions are treatable.

It's important to keep in mind that anyone can develop a mental health problem. Although some teens may be at a higher risk based on genetics and their past experiences, all teens are susceptible to mental illness-including straight-A students and star athletes.

Educate yourself about the most common mental health issues teens face. Be on the lookout for potential problems and seek professional help when necessary. Early intervention can be the key to getting your teen the help she needs.

Approximately 8 percent of children between the ages of 12 and 17 have had a major depressive episode during the past year, according to SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health published in 2015. Girls are more likely to experience depression than boys.﻿﻿

There are four main types of depression. And about half of all teens who meet the criteria for depression report that their symptoms severely impacts their social or academic life.

Depression is usually quite treatable. Sometimes therapy alone is helpful, and sometimes a combination of therapy and medication can offer the best symptom relief. Left untreated, depression can get worse.

Approximately 8 percent of teens between 13 and 18 have an anxiety disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.﻿﻿

Anxiety can severely impact a teen's life as well. It often interferes with a teen's ability to socialize with friends. It can also interfere with a teen's education. Severe cases of anxiety can even prevent a teen from leaving his house.

Anxiety comes in several forms. Generalized anxiety, for example, can cause a teen to feel anxious in all areas of life but social anxiety disorder may make it difficult for a teen to speak up in class or attend social events.

Talk therapy is usually the preferred form of treatment for anxiety. Teens may benefit from learning skills to manage their symptoms and face their fears.

Symptoms of ADHD may become apparent by age 4 but sometimes those symptoms don't become problematic until the teen years.

Children may not experience academic problems until the work becomes more difficult, such as during the high school years.

There are three subtypes of ADHD-hyperactive type, inattentive type, or impulsive type. It's also possible to have a combination of types.﻿﻿

Teens with the hyperactive type have difficulty sitting still, can't stop talking and struggle to complete a project. Teens with the inattentive type lack focus and become easily distracted.

ADHD is often treated with both therapy and medication. Parent training may also be part of treatment to help the family manage symptoms in the home.﻿﻿

Anywhere from 1 to 16 percent of adolescents have oppositional defiant disorder, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ODD often first emerges during early elementary school. Left untreated, it can lead to a conduct disorder, which is a much more serious behavioral disorder.﻿﻿

Oppositional defiant disorder is characterized by extreme defiance, verbal and physical aggression and spitefulness. Teens with ODD tend to struggle to maintain healthy relationships and often their behavior interferes with their education. Treatment for ODD may include parent training programs and therapy.﻿﻿

Eating disorders include anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. Among teens between 13 and 18, approximately 2.7 percent suffer from an eating disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Although eating disorders can occur in both males and females, the prevalence is higher in females.﻿﻿

While anorexia is characterized by extreme food restriction and weight loss, bulimia involves binge eating and purging, either by vomiting or through the use of laxatives. Binge eating disorder involves eating massive quantities of food at one time without purging.

Eating disorders can take a serious toll on a teen's physical health. Treatment often requires both physical health monitoring and intensive therapy.﻿﻿

If you suspect your teen may have a mental health issue, seek professional help right away. Talk to your child's physician about your concerns or consult with a trained mental health professional.

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5 Mental Health That Are Common in Teenagers

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Teens experience many of the same mental health issues as adults. However, many teens go undiagnosed and untreated, even though most conditions are treatable. It's important to keep in mind that anyone can develop a mental health problem.

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Written by anonymous teen, learner at St. Benedicts College, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

With the exams coming to an end, many teens (and their parents) are relieved and look forward to a much need break before the business of the new year. But for many others, as much as 1 in 5 youths in South Africa, have attempted suicide with the highest risk group being 10-19 years old. It is tougher than ever to be a teen in a highly competitive fast changing society they live in. Teen behaviour can typically be described as impulsive and unpredictable, with mood swings. But clinical depression is not just moodiness. Speak to your health care professional to get a clear diagnosis, or consult with your local clinical psychologist or us at PsychMatters Centre to get the right treatment for your child. The South African Depression and Anxiety Support Group has a toll free suicide help line - 0800 567 567 to assist a teen in crisis.

A learner at St. Benedicts College, curious-minded and interested in the field of psychology, wrote an article relaying his thoughts and feelings about being a teen today.

Being a Teen in the world today is very different to how it was 100,50 or even 10 years ago. The evolutions of digital technology and the immense increase in population has resulted in the teens of today facing much more advanced problems and problems teens of the past would never in thought of. Teens today have higher levels of stress and anxiety according to the APA (American Psychological Association) than that of their adult counterparts. I put out a census to 800 of the teens in greater Johannesburg and received 87 responses back in which teenagers expressed what is driving their anxiety levels through the roof. 4 major topics came up, these were social media, a struggle of sexuality and acceptance, pressure placed on them by school and parents, and the idea that everything they are doing now is not going to be good enough because there will always be someone better that comes along after.

Social media has evolved so much over the centuries. On one hand it can be a powerful tool for both teen and adult alike, but on the other hand it can make a teen of today's life very difficult. All the time we are hearing," Watch what you put on the internet kids because it will be there forever," which has never been more true. More and more employers, universities and schools are looking at what people post and are tagged in to watch out for what people got up to as teens. This aggravates our stress levels because it means, kids cannot simply be kids and we have to be even more mindful of how we spend our time and who we associate with because we are always being watched. Social media is also a new platform for cyberbullying and increases the amount of FOMO ( fear of missing out ) teens experience. Teens love it but at the same time, teens hate it.

Sexuality in South Africa is a topic that is very taboo. On one side of the coin international support for the LGBT community is growing and overseas they are widely accepted and proud of who they are, but on the other side our generation of teens in South Africa is at a split. One half of our teens are open and accepting of diversity and change but the other half is still filled with homophobia and other conservative ideals, however members of the LGBT community fall on both sides. This results in teenagers not accepting themselves for who they are and hiding who they are away which causes unnecessary stress and paranoia.

Teenagers of today have an incredible amount of stress placed on them by their parents and their school. Teenagers are finding it difficult to manage the little time that they are given. We often hear parents reminiscing about the good old days of getting out of school and only having to come home at sundown to start their work, or older siblings talking about Saturdays of cartoons and spending entire weekends at friends' houses. Unfortunately, teens of today get much less of that and rather we receive stressful deadlines and copious amounts of work that we drown in all the time, the only teens that seem to be on top of their work are merely ignoring work they hadn't done yet. Schools make things worse by making every piece of work we do important for the final exams and force us to keep work from grade 10 that we will use in matric without any revision on the subject matter almost two years down the line. Parents have set extremely high standards and schools work to reinforce them. Often, we miss out on that party or that weekend away with friends because we are so far behind on work, that we won't even see again, that we have to stay at home and skip the joys of being a teen. This increases stress levels significantly as teens do not have a way to release their stress and often it comes out on harmful ways.

Often, we have adults pushing us to be our best, guiding us towards what they think will be a brighter future. They shepherd us to what they believe would give us happiness and they aren't wrong to do it. Teens today however are beginning to feel that teen efforts are in vein because in such a fast expanding World nothing will ever be good enough to last them long enough like it has been for people of the past. Teens are finding that more work equates to less reward and it increases their levels of stress significantly.

In conclusion the teens of today are plagued by social media and are forced to hide behind walls and pretend to be someone else as a result of homophobia and not accepting themselves for who they are. Teens are also put under tremendous strain by adults who enforce their own agendas believing what they are doing is right when in fact they are permanently harming the child and do not realize the effects of their actions. Lastly teens are filled with dread as they lack the self-confidence to believe that they can keep up with an ever-expanding works with less and less opportunity.

However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. As teens work to better understand each other, the less we worry about social media's grip on us. The more time we spend together the more we become comfortable with who we are and grow to accept one another for who we are. The more pressure our parents and schools place on us the tighter we hold onto our friends for support and lastly the more scared we are of the future, the more we come together as teens of today and I believe we are a generation that will do great things because we are a generation that never gives up and we are a generation that is quickly breaking the thoughts of the past and learning to love each other for everything we are. So, amongst all the hardship and strife, we will excel.

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Being a Teen in The 21st Century - PsychMatters

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Written by anonymous teen, learner at St. Benedicts College, Bedfordview, Johannesburg With the exams coming to an end, many teens (and their parents) are relieved and look forward to a much need break before the business of the new year. But for many others, as much as 1 in 5 youths in South Africa, have ...

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Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

Some forms of depression are slightly different, or they may develop under unique circumstances, such as:

Persistent depressive disorder (also called dysthymia)is a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years. A person diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder may have episodes of major depression along with periods of less severe symptoms, but symptoms must last for two years to be considered persistent depressive disorder.

Postpartum depression is much more serious than the "baby blues" (relatively mild depressive and anxiety symptoms that typically clear within two weeks after delivery) that many women experience after giving birth. Women with postpartum depression experience full-blown major depression during pregnancy or after delivery (postpartum depression). The feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that accompany postpartum depression may make it difficult for these new mothers to complete daily care activities for themselves and/or for their babies.

Psychotic depression occurs when a person has severe depression plus some form of psychosis, such as having disturbing false fixed beliefs (delusions) or hearing or seeing upsetting things that others cannot hear or see (hallucinations). The psychotic symptoms typically have a depressive "theme," such as delusions of guilt, poverty, or illness.

Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by the onset of depression during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. This depression generally lifts during spring and summer. Winter depression, typically accompanied by social withdrawal, increased sleep, and weight gain, predictably returns every year in seasonal affective disorder.

Bipolar disorder is different from depression, but it is included in this list is because someone with bipolar disorder experiences episodes of extremely low moods that meet the criteria for major depression (called "bipolar depression"). But a person with bipolar disorder also experiences extreme high - euphoric or irritable - moods called "mania" or a less severe form called "hypomania."

Examples of other types of depressive disorders newly added to the diagnostic classification of DSM-5 include disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (diagnosed in children and adolescents) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

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Depression (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

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Adolescence (10-19 years) is a unique and formative time. Multiple physical, emotional and social changes, including exposure to poverty, abuse, or violence, can make adolescents vulnerable to mental health problems. Promoting psychological well-being and protecting adolescents from adverse experiences and risk factors that may impact their potential to thrive are critical for their well-being during adolescence and for their physical and mental health in adulthood.