7 Types Of Teen Mental Health Disorders: Symptoms, Risk Factors & Treatment

Hello readers! As we know, adolescence and young adulthood are often perceived as carefree times, but the reality is that mental health problems are on the rise among teenagers. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made it worse, with mental health emergencies among 12-to-17-year-olds increasing by 31% in the first eight months of the pandemic, and the impact is still lingering, even 4 years later. 

As per the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 75% of mental health conditions develop before the age of 24. It is essential for parents, guardians and caregivers to be aware of teens' mental health and the challenges and provide support to ensure the well-being of young people during this critical stage of life. Here, we will know the common types of mental health issues in teens with their symptoms, risk factors and treatment options. Read on to know more!

Key Highlights 

• Mental disorder is one of the most common health issues experienced by one in seven teens of 10-19 ages, resulting in 13% of the global burden.

• Mental health can affect your emotional, behavioural, and eating habits.

• Due to poor mental health, suicide has become the 4th major reason for death among the 15-29 age group.

• Some of the common mental disorders include depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, etc.

Table of Contents

1. What Is A Mental Disorder?

2. Top 7 Disorders Affecting Teen Mental Health

3. Mental Health Problems And Disorders In Adolescents 

4. Signs And Symptoms Of  Poor Mental Health In Teens

5. Risk Factors For Poor Mental Health In Adolescents

6. Treatment For Teens Mental Health Disorder 

7. The Final Say

8. FAQs

9. References

What Is A Mental Disorder?

Well, a mental disorder is a condition that affects a person's thinking, behaviour, and emotions. It can even make it difficult for someone to function daily, impacting their relationships and overall well-being. Mental disorders can vary in severity and may be caused by a combination of factors, which include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and brain chemistry.  It is important to seek professional help if you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental disorder.

Also Read: These Healthy Habits For Mental Health Will Change You

Top 7 Disorders Affecting Teen Mental Health

Various mental health conditions affect teens and cause changes in emotional, behavioural and eating habits. Let us understand them one by one:

1. Anxiety Disorders

The brain continues to develop in adolescence, making it essential to address mental health issues as early as possible. It can significantly impact a teenager's day-to-day living and affect their ability to function in various aspects of life.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anxiety in teens has a very high prevalence, especially in developed and developing nations. About 4% of 10-14-year-olds and 5% of 15-19-year-olds experience an anxiety disorder, developing symptoms of an anxiety disorder before the age of 21.

The major types of anxiety disorder include phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder. Therefore, it is crucial to seek professional help if you suspect your teenager may be experiencing an anxiety disorder, as early intervention is key.

Also Read: Yoga For Stress And Anxiety Relief

2. Depression

Depression is another prevalent mental health disorder affecting 3% of 15-19-year-olds globally, with 13% of US youth experiencing a major depressive episode in 2020. It is marked by recurrent negative mood changes, thought processes, and motivation, affecting adolescents' school attendance, relationships, and performance.

3. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This mental disorder affects the learning and behaviour of individuals. It is one of the common teen mental health disorders affecting 9% of children ages 4 to 17 age group. As a result, the children become hyperactive or sometimes impulsive. They also get easily distracted and face problems paying attention to their studies.

Common signs and symptoms of ADHD in children and teenagers include:

• Instability in their work profiles 

• Easily getting bored by their work

• Difficulty in paying attention to the work

• Trouble completing schoolwork 

• Difficulty processing information quickly

• Trouble sitting still for some time

• Touching or playing with everything

• Acting without regard for consequences

• Talking a lot and interrupting others

4. Eating Disorders

Have you ever thought that eating can also become a disorder? Well, that is true. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, it is considered a key issue among teenagers. Generally, women or girls are more prone to this disorder. Abnormal eating habits increase the risk of nutrition deficiencies, obesity, and premature death.

Some of the types of eating disorders are

• Anorexia Nervosa: It is also known as self-starvation to lose weight as teens struggling with it refuse to eat, and most of the time, they deny hunger.

• Bulimia Nervosa: It is marked by consuming a large amount of food and then vomiting to rid oneself of the calorie intake.

• Binge Eating Disorder: It involves excessive eating in a short period, resulting in feelings of self-disgust, depression, and shame.

Also Read: Is Mental Wellness More Important Than Physical Wellness? Let’s Find Out!

5. Panic Attacks

It is a sudden surge of fear or discomfort that lasts for a few minutes. During a panic attack, a person may experience at least four of the following symptoms:

• Heart palpitations

• Sweating

• Shaking or trembling

• Shortness of breath

• Feelings of choking

• Chest pain

• Nausea or stomach discomfort

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Chills or hot flashes

• Numbness or tingling sensations

• Feelings of unreality or detachment

6. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

It is a mental condition triggered by unwanted, intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours. People with this disorder often feel compelled to perform certain rituals or routines to alleviate their anxiety or prevent something bad from happening. 

While OCD can be challenging to live with, it is important to remember that it is a treatable condition. Medication, therapy, and support from family members and loved ones can all play a key role in improving the quality of life for individuals with OCD.

7. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This condition usually develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. People with PTSD may have intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks related to the event, which can cause intense emotional distress. 

They may also experience hyperarousal symptoms, such as being easily startled or having difficulty sleeping. Treatment for PTSD often involves therapy and medication to help manage symptoms and promote healing. 

Mental Health Problems And Disorders In Adolescents*

The following table highlights the prevalence of various mental health problems and disorders among adolescents and teens:

Also Read: How To Use Social Media Mindfully For Mental Health? 

Signs And Symptoms Of  Poor Mental Health In Teens 

If you are struggling with any of the mental health disorders you may observe the following symptoms:

• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Lack of concentration

• Loss of energy and motivation

• Lack of interest in activities/friendships

• Hopelessness 

• Physical aches, pains, and general ailments

• Suicidal thoughts

• Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt

• Loss of energy

• Psychomotor agitation or retardation

• Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping

• Substantial change in appetite or body weight

• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

• Persistent sad or irritable mood

Risk Factors For Poor Mental Health In Adolescents

The potential risk factors that contribute for poor mental health include the following:

• Anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or behavioural problems

• Family history of depression

• Recent bereavement or family conflict

• Break up of a romantic relationship

• Substance misuse

• Trauma and severe stress

• Learning difficulties

• Physical and sexual abuse

• Having a chronic medical condition

Treatment For Teens Mental Health Disorder

Here are some general categories of treatment options for teen mental health:

1. Psychotherapy

It refers to a variety of therapies that can help teenagers identify and understand their thoughts and feelings, develop coping mechanisms, and improve their relationships. Some common types of psychotherapy include 

• Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)

• Mindfulness-based therapy

• Family therapy.

2. Medication

In some cases, medication can help to regulate brain chemicals and reduce symptoms of some mental health conditions. It is essential to know the potential benefits and risks of medication with a doctor or mental health professional.

3. Lifestyle changes: 

Good morning habits or changes like eating healthy and taking balanced nutrition, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can also improve mental health.

4. Support Groups

Joining support groups can provide a safe and supportive environment for teenagers to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

The Final Say 

It is important to prioritise the mental health of teenagers and provide them with appropriate treatment options. By understanding the different types of disorders that can affect teens, such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, we can better support their well-being. 

Treatment options may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from family and friends. Creating a safe and supportive environment where teens feel comfortable seeking help and receiving the care they need is crucial. For more information on health-related topics, visit ToneOp.

FAQs

1. What are the signs of anxiety?

Some common signs of anxiety:

• Excessive worry

• Restlessness

• Fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Irritability

• Muscle tension

• Sleep disturbances

  
  

2. What are the 5 most common mental disorders?

Common mental disorders are: 

• Anxiety Disorders

• Depression

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• Eating Disorders

• Panic Attacks

  
  

3. What are 5 ways to improve mental health?

Ways to improve mental health:

• Doing exercise regularly

• Eating a healthy Diet

• Taking adequate Sleep

• Doing yoga and meditation

• Making social Connections

4. Is it true that teens from larger families experience worse mental health? 

Research suggests that teens from larger families may face unique challenges, such as less individualised attention, but the impact on mental health varies widely. Factors like family dynamics, support systems, and communication play crucial roles, influencing whether teens from larger families experience worse or comparable mental health compared to their peers in smaller families.

References

1. Mental Health for Adolescents - HHS Office of Population Affairs

2. The mental health of adolescents

3. ABC of adolescence: Common mental health problems

4. Mental Health Disorders in Adolescents

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