When to Worry: What Parents Should Know About Youth Mental Health

Today’s youth experience a greater stress than generations before them. The lockdowns and school closures of the COVID-19 pandemic only increased the behavioral and emotional problems in today’s youth, especially among the most vulnerable populations. 

Over one-third of Texas youth experience mental health problems. The Texas Department of Health Services reported in the Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey (ABES) that:

• 37% of high school students reported poor mental health
• 44% reported feeling persistent sadness or hopelessness

Parents often feel unsure about what is just normal teen angst vs. something that they need to pay attention to. BE-OK created this guide to offer insight into what behaviors parents should watch for in their teens and how to respond.

What are the common mental health issues facing Texas youth?

Anxiety & Depression
Symptoms may include: restlessness, nervousness, poor concentration, difficulty  sleeping, persistent sadness, loss of interest, poor sleep

Social Pressure & Bullying
Signs can include: pressure to dress or act a certain way, participating in risky  behaviors, social media comparison, unrealistic expectations, missing or damaged  belongings, loss of appetite, unexplained injuries 

Academic Stress
Signs can include: emotional problems such as irritability or mood swings; physical  signs such as headaches, stomachaches, sleep issues; behavioral changes such as  withdrawal, procrastination, decline in academic performance

Isolation & Loneliness
Signs can include: withdrawing socially, avoiding activities and friends they once  enjoyed, feelings of hopelessness, changes of behavior, difficulty concentrating, sudden  changes in weight (gain or loss), easily hurt by negative comments

What are Common Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For?

• Changes in sleeping habits
• Changes in eating habits
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities
• Sudden drops in academics
• Increased anger or irritability
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or talking about self-harm
  

What are some ways parents can help youth who might be struggling with mental health?

1. Start the conversation. Give your children plenty of opportunities to dialogue about what is going on in their world. Sometimes the best opportunities for these types of conversations are in the car, while playing a game together, or when they’re going to bed.
2. Model keeping good mental health a priority. Do your children see you talk opening about your struggles? Do you take time for yourself when you need it? Have you ever seen a counselor? Tell your kids about the experience. Making your own mental health a priority sets the tone for your entire family.
3. Set healthy boundaries with screens. We can’t expect our children to keep boundaries with technology if we aren’t modeling it ourselves. Establish healthy routines, start the day with a healthy breakfast instead of scrolling, put phones away during meal time, make eye contact when someone is talking. Encourage real-life interactions and regular time spent together without screens.
4. Encourage getting/offering support. Does your child’s school or local religious organization offer support groups for youth? Find a way to get plugged in. Volunteer. Share their social media posts or email newsletters — including blogs like ours! Help spread the word about support offered to the youth in your community.

When is it time to seek clinical Help?

What are Some Resources for Parents to Get Mental Health Support?

• Reach out to your pediatrician
• Reach out to your child’s school counselor
• Take a free mental health screening
• Connect with a local support group on the BE-OK Resources Hub
• Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Things to remember

Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers or be the expert. Just be willing to show up and ask questions. Your presence and attention speaks volumes. If they are exhibiting concerning behaviors, reach out for support.

Need help starting the conversation or finding support in your area? Visit the BE-OK Resource Hub or share this post with a fellow parent. Let’s make sure no child faces mental health challenges alone.