As a parent or caregiver, it can be difficult to know when your teen needs professional help. It’s important to recognize some of the signs that they may need therapy, and take action if needed. Here are some considerations to help you tell if it’s time for your teen to see a therapist:

1) Notice Changes in Behavior – If you notice sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from activities or friends, difficulty concentrating, over- or under sleeping, frequent outbursts of anger or sadness, these could all be signs that something more is going on for them. It can be difficult to sort out what is “normal” teenage behavior from something else, so be on the look out for shifts in the pattern of their behavior.

2) Look Out For Physical Symptoms – If you notice complaints about physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and/or achy legs or muscles without any medical cause then this could indicate an emotional problem. It is not unusual for children and teens (and even adults!) to experience physical symptoms when they are dealing with difficult emotions. These symptoms may also include shaking, sweating, excessive fidgeting, nausea, or appearing to be distracted.

Are there topics of conversation that make them uncomfortable? Do certain events trigger strong reactions, like anxiety or panic? Will they make comments that they feel “hopeless” or “worthless”?

3) Listen To Your Teen – Pay attention when your teen talks about themselves and their feelings. Do they talk about feeling overwhelmed? Are there topics of conversation that make them uncomfortable? Do certain events trigger strong reactions, like anxiety or panic? Will they make comments that they feel “hopeless” or “worthless”? These are all indicators that something deeper is going on emotionally, and might require therapeutic intervention rather than parental guidance alone.

4) Talk With Teachers & Other Professionals – Talk with their teachers and counselor at school who may be noticing some changes in their behavior, including academic performance, attendance, class participation, and interactions with peers. Often teachers may notice that the teen is frequently leaving class to use the restroom, visit the nurse’s office, or going to student services. Their pediatrician or family doctor may also have some insight into any changes taking place, and will often conduct mental health screeners for anxiety and depression symptoms if there seems to be an emotional concern.