How to Tell If a Teen Has a Mental Disability

Teens often experience moodiness, and it can be hard to distinguish typical from atypical behavior during the teen years. For that reason, a diagnosis of mental illness can only be made by a trained professional. The National Alliance on Mental Illness gives a general definition of mental illness as disruptions in thoughts, feelings and behavior that affect daily functions. If you feel your teen's behavior is affecting his educational, social or personal well-being, schedule a mental health assessment. Although there may still be a stigma associated with mental health issues, don't let that keep you from reaching out for help.

Instructions

• 1

  Observe your teen's mood swings. Most teens have them; they may feel sad, angry or elated all in the same day. Teens are also often irritable, particularly with their parents. This is typical behavior and not a cause for significant concern. However, if your teen feels depressed most of the time, most days of the week, or irritable with multiple people in multiple situations, this may be cause for concern. Withdrawal from friends, or activities she typically engages in, may also indicate a problem.

• 2

  Monitor his anxiety. Many teens feel anxious in certain situations. They may worry about taking a test or going on a date. However, extreme anxiety inhibits participation in social activities and is a barrier to educational success. Panic attacks, or sudden and extreme episodes of anxiety, can be scary to both the teen and the observer and signal the need for medical or mental health intervention. Also, extreme worry that prevents a teen from engaging in typical adolescent activities may indicate a mental health issue.

• 3

  Assess her anger. Anger is a typical teenage emotion, and is most often directed toward parents and siblings. This is a normal part of development related to their biological and social need for greater independence. However, anger that results in violent actions, such as physical fighting, property destruction or violent verbal threats may indicate abnormal behavior. If a teen who previously stayed out of trouble becomes physically or verbally aggressive, or has been arrested for illegal behavior, a mental health assessment may be necessary. Such an assessment can determine if a mental illness is present, or if there is something else in the teen's life affecting her behavior.

• 4

  Monitor teens for suicidal statements, or attempts to harm themselves or others. Self-harm is never typical behavior. Teens who threaten suicide or attempt to harm themselves in any way should be referred for mental health assessment. Self-harm may include making small, non-life-threatening cuts on their arms or legs, intentional and hurtful head-banging, or suicide attempts. Any statements suggesting that a teen no longer wishes to be alive should be taken seriously. Homicidal thoughts, or attempted violence against others, are also significant indicators of mental health issues. Any threats of violence, or attempts to significantly harm or kill another person, should be taken seriously and a mental health assessment should be conducted.