What warning signs should I look for?

Remember that your teen may experiment with his or her values, ideas, hairstyles and clothing in order to define him- or herself. This is typically normal behavior and you shouldn’t be concerned. However, inappropriate or destructive behavior can be a sign of a problem.

Teens, especially those with low self-esteem or with family problems, are at risk for a number of self-destructive behaviors such as using drugs or alcohol. Depression and eating disorders are common health issues that teens face. The following may be warning signs that your child is having a problem:

• Agitated or restless behavior
• Weight loss or gain
• A drop in grades
• Trouble concentrating
• Ongoing feelings of sadness
• Not caring about people and things
• Lack of motivation
• Fatigue, loss of energy and lack of interest in activities
• Low self-esteem
• Trouble falling asleep
• Run-ins with the law