Let's Talk About Adolescent Mental Health Issues

When it comes to adolescent mental health, there’s a lot that can get lost in translation. Many children and teenagers don’t know how to approach the topic, while parents and doctors might chalk up their issues to growing pains and teenage hormones. 

For young people struggling with their mental health, a specialist can be an invaluable resource. 

At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ifeanyi Olele delivers adolescent mental health care with compassion and professionalism, gaining the young person’s trust and helping them learn to verbalize their feelings to uncover issues that he can address in therapy or with medications. 

Common adolescent mental health issues

Adolescence is defined as the time between childhood and adulthood, specifically ages 10-19. An estimated one out of seven adolescents is experiencing a mental disorder. The actual number may prove to be much higher, because it’s increasing as our understanding of mental health improves and the stigma surrounding it decreases. 

One of the most common examples of an adolescent mental health issue is teen depression. Undiagnosed and untreated, it can result in negative outcomes not only for your child but your entire family.

In the past, it was not unusual for certain behaviors to be chalked up to stress, teen drama, laziness, or even adolescent rebellion. These are rarely the reason for sudden personality and/or behavioral changes. 

If your adolescent is struggling and acting out, it may be the result of depression or anxiety, not disrespect. 

Disobedience, irresponsibility, hyperactivity, bad moods, bad behavior, oversleeping, and substance abuse can all be indications of mental illness. Common mental health issues among adolescents include: 

• ADHD
• Depression
• Mood disorders 
• Eating disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Learning disorders and disabilities

Without proper treatment, these conditions can continue to affect adolescents well into adulthood. Early diagnosis not only helps them understand their behavior, but learn coping mechanisms that will help them throughout their lives. 

Finding the right way forward

There is growing concern about the youth mental health crisis. While some are quick to blame social media and smartphones, many young people cite family issues, bullying, fear of the future, and social unrest as contributing factors to their anxiety, depression, and other disorders. 

At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, Dr. Olele works directly with patients and their parents to address their concerns. From there, he and his team can recommend psychotherapy and psychiatric solutions to help your child succeed in school, sports, and their social lives. 

Do you need help with your adolescent’s mental health? Are you concerned about your child and their future? To schedule a consultation, call our location closest to you or request an appointment through our online portal. We’re located in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia, as well as Washington, DC.