How to know if you have a troubled teen

“What defines a troubled teen and when do I seek intervention?”

One of the obstacles that can cause parents to delay in getting help for their struggling teen is confusion about the answer to above question.

Many parents find themselves comparing their child to other children by saying things like “My child is not as bad as their kid!” and “Why can’t my teen act like that so-and-so’s child?”

Below are signs of a troubled teen:

* Your teen has regular, sudden outbursts of anger that are clearly unreasonable.

* Your teen regularly misses curfew, does not show up when expected, and lies about his or her whereabouts.

* Your teenager has suddenly changed his or her peer group and hasn’t made an effort to let you meet these new friends.

* Your teen has stolen money from you or others in the home on regular occasions.

* Your child becomes more secretive, and it seems like more than a desire for greater privacy.

* Your teen has extreme mood swings, from depression to elation.

* Your child’s grades have suddenly dropped and the child has lost interest in the usual activities.

If you notice that your teen is displaying more that 2 of the above signs be sure to talk to your teen about what you are noticing. Ask them what is going on and let them know that you are concerned. Also speak to them in a non-attacking way. Never be worried about calling their physician to discuss what you are noticing.

The most important step is the 1st step