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Without question, our children experience a lot of ups and downs.  But some behaviors are a sign of something more serious than a passing mood, especially if they have lasted more than two weeks:

• Changes in sleeping, eating, or social habits

• Sudden weight loss or gain

• Lack of interest in favorite pastimes 

• Declining academic performance

• Reckless behavior

• Trouble concentrating or making decisions 

• Restlessness, excessive worry/stress

• Isolation or sudden changes in peer relations

• Self-harm (such as cutting)

• Unusual fatigue or sleeping

• Irritability or anger

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

• Thoughts of death or suicide

• Unexplained aches or pains that don’t go away when treated

Mental health professionals now know that these behaviors may be a sign of deep unhappiness or anxiety in youth. Those feelings, in turn, can lead to:

• Difficulty studying

• Relationship troubles

• Substance abuse

• Self harm or even suicide  

Did you know that suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among Americans aged 15-24?

Mental health professionals also know that mental challenges can be treated. Click here to learn how to begin the conversation and where to get help.