“A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support. No one would feel embarrassed about seeking help for a child if they broke their arm — and we really should be equally ready to support a child coping with emotional difficulties” (). These words aren’t from a trite public service announcement – in fact, they were spoken by none other than the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton herself. While they may use “boot” to refer to a car trunk overseas, the fact remains unchanged: teen mental health is a worldwide issue that is only now beginning to get the recognition it deserves.
Teen Mental Health: Same in the US as it is the UK
Teen mental health issues are extremely widespread – up to 20% of children in the US suffer from a mental disorder. Although there is a positive trend in recognizing and treating these problems, there is still a stigma attached to having a mental disorder. Too often ADHD is viewed as a fake excuse, or anxiety as a natural part of growing up. To make matters worse, if a teen mental health issue goes unnoticed or ignored early, it can lead to dangerous behavior in the future.
Some warning signs to watch for as a parent, include rapid or inexplicable changes in your teen’s patterns. Among many other potential forms, these changes could include mood swings, different eating or sleeping habits, school performance, shifts in friend groups, or even substance abuse. From a parent’s perspective, the best thing to do to promote teen mental health is to stay positive, supportive, and open. By communicating with your child, you encourage them to tell you if there’s anything wrong; and if your child feels like they can talk to you, they are more likely to seek you out should they be concerned.
If you discover signs of a teen mental health issue in your child – or if you’re simply worried – it is time to consider professional help.
Consider Trails Carolina
Trails Carolina, a wilderness therapy program for teens ages 10-17, can help your teen struggling with mental health issues find the success they deserve.
For more information about Trails Carolina, please call 800-975-7303 today!
Get started today
Contact us today to learn how Trails Carolina can help your family
Trails saved my daughter’s life. Amanda is an amazing human and a brilliant therapist. I am so grateful to her, Science Steve, and the other wonderful people who could reach my daughter at a time when I could not.
Margot Lowman August 2022
Great life changing experience for our son. After becoming addicted to gaming during covid he was very depressed. At Trails he experienced the wilderness, Science Steve, learning survival skills and top notch therapy and support etc… I highly recommend! This gave our son and our family a renewed family bond full of love and excitement about his bright future.
Winnifred Wilson July 2022
Outstanding clinical work and superb staff! There’s a great culture at this company and it shows with how they engage with families/clients.
Kristin Brace June 2022
Discover If Trails Is The Right Program For Your Child
Take our short online assessment and help us better understand how we can help your family.
Top 5 Common Myths About Wilderness Therapy For Youth: Understanding The History and Today’s Reality
Treatment For Anxiety In Teens: How Wilderness Therapy Can Help
Dealing with Defiance: Six Tips for Decreasing Defiant Behavior
