Teenage Mood Swings or Something More Serious?

If you know a teenager, you probably also know that “normal” can be a pretty broad category. One day they’re talking your ear off. Next, they barely leave their room. They can be happy at breakfast and completely annoyed by dinner. Typical teen mood swings usually don’t last more than a day or two. These changes can be linked to specific events or triggers. If your child is not bouncing back, though, how do you know when something is more serious? That’s a tough call for any parent, especially when a new school year brings its own set of changes.

When Your Teen Just Doesn’t Seem to Like Themselves

You may know your child better than anyone. You probably know the difference between your teenager having a rough week and something that just feels… different. Maybe your normally social child has stopped wanting to see friends. Maybe they’re sleeping all the time. Maybe they’re constantly worried about school or seem angry over things that never used to bother them. You might hear, “I’m fine” but something tells you they aren’t. Pay attention to that feeling. It doesn’t mean there is automatically a serious problem. It simply means your child may need more attention right now.

Don’t underestimate what your child is going through

It’s easy for adults to look back at their teenage years and think, “They’ll get through it.” And they probably will. But that doesn’t mean what they’re experiencing right now isn’t difficult. School pressure, friendships, social media, family changes, sports, academics and trying to figure out who you are can be a lot to carry. Add anxiety or depression to the mix, and everyday things can start to feel overwhelming. Your teenager may not have the words to explain all that. Sometimes it comes out as anger. Sometimes it looks like shutting everyone out. Sometimes it looks like a teenager who suddenly doesn’t seem interested in anything.

How can you talk to your teen without forcing it?

If you’re worried, start a conversation. Not a lecture. Not an interrogation. Just a conversation. Try something simple like: “You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Is something going on?” Then listen. You may not get much of an answer the first time. That’s okay. Let them know you’re available and try again later. And if they do open up, resist the urge to solve the problem immediately. Sometimes they need someone to hear them before they need someone to fix something.

Know when to get professional behavioral help

There are times when talking with your teenager at the kitchen table isn’t enough. If changes in your child’s mood or behavior continue or begin affecting school, friendships, family relationships or everyday life, it may be time to talk with a mental health professional. Getting help doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent. It doesn’t mean your child is “broken” either. It means you’ve noticed they’re having a hard time and you’re willing to do something about it.

Contact Parkwood Behavioral Health in Olive Branch, MS

Call 662-895-4900 to learn more about Parkwood’s admissions process or contact us online to schedule a behavioral health assessment. Walk-ins are welcome. We respect your privacy and hold all information in the strictest confidence.