Mental health challenges are on the rise in teens. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows that, in 2021, 44% of high school students reported they persistently felt sad or hopeless during the past year. 

Prior data showed that mental health was already getting worse among high school students leading into 2021. Among other conditions, many high school students are experiencing depression and anxiety. 

When you’re a teen, starting a conversation about mental health can be intimidating. However, talking about mental health is important. Left unaddressed, mental health symptoms may worsen over time. Not sure if you are ready to talk or even need to talk about your mental health? Here are some signs that can help you get a better understanding of where you are.

4 signs you should open up to someone about your mental health

If you’re a teen, these signs can signal that it’s time for you to open up to your parents or a trusted adult about your mental health: 

• Feeling down most or all of the time — Feeling down every now and then is a part of life. If you feel down most or all of the time, though, it could be a sign of a mental health concern. Conditions like depression and complicated grief can cause teens to feel persistently sad or “low.” If you notice you are feeling down more often than not, let someone that you trust know. Don’t try to mask your feelings. It’s OK to not be OK sometimes. Reaching out to someone you trust for help is a great move when you’re often feeling down.
• Losing interest in things that used to bring you joy — Have you lost interest in the hobbies and activities that used to bring you joy? This could be a sign of underlying mental health challenges. Conditions like anxiety and depression often cause this kind of behavioral shift. If you are depressed, you may feel that your favorite activities have lost meaning. If you’re anxious, you may feel the need to avoid activities you enjoy due to the anxiety you’re feeling. If you notice yourself losing interest, try to start a conversation about what’s going on with an adult you trust. This can be a great way to start a longer conversation and journey toward mental wellness.
• Avoiding others — Avoiding others may be a sign of social anxiety. Social anxiety can lead to difficulties in making friends and interacting with others in social settings like school. If you find yourself avoiding social situations, it might help to have a conversation with someone you trust in a safe, private setting. Your talk with them may help you start to unpack the reasons behind your avoidance, which could range from anxiety to trauma-related triggers. The person you’re talking to may also be able to offer guidance on next steps, such as possible treatment and support options. These might include a teen support group or even a comprehensive treatment program.
• Thinking about self-harm — Talking about self-harm can be tough, but it’s essential to ensuring recovery and preventing further harm. If you are thinking about harming yourself, you should reach out to a trusted friend, family member or mentor right away. You can also get immediate help by calling or texting 988 to speak with someone at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day.

Noticing these signs in yourself? You can work with Lightfully Teen to improve your mental health

You can get effective mental health treatment at Lightfully Teen. When you open up about the mental health challenges you’re experiencing, we can help you and your parents or caregivers take the next step toward improved mental health. 

Lightfully takes a unique approach to treatment called Precision Care Model (PCM), a compassionate and fully personalized treatment plan designed just for each individual teen. Our PCM centers on compassion and whole-person-centered care provided by licensed clinical experts. We can work with you to continue the conversation about your mental health and work toward building the confidence and skills you’ll need to do your best mental health work now and in the future.

Change is possible. When you and your family are ready, you can take the next step by contacting us. We can help you get an assessment and learn more about treatment options. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.

Want to learn more about how to have productive mental health-oriented conversations? Keep an eye out for the next blog in our “Talking About Mental Health” series.