Category: Teen Counseling

Though the college application and transition process can be exciting for teens, there’s no question that it can also be a little overwhelming, and even scary. It might be the first major life change your teen is going through.

While you might be excited for them, it’s important to do what you can to calm their nerves. A little anxiety is normal, but if you find that their anxious thoughts are impacting their quality of life, there are things you can do to guide them through the process effectively.

Helping your teen with anxiety now can encourage them to prioritize their mental well-being as they step into the real world. With that in mind, let’s cover a few helpful tips you can use to guide your anxious teenager through this transition period.

Practice Open Communication

One of the best ways to ease your teen’s anxious thoughts is to make sure you’re both communicating openly and honestly. Create a comfortable environment where your teen can express their needs and concerns without the fear of being judged.

Listen to their concerns about the application and transition process. Validate their feelings.

It’s important to help your teen establish realistic expectations about the entire experience. Maybe their fear is that they won’t get into their “dream school.” Let them know that acceptance into a certain school doesn’t define who they are or what they’re worth.

If they are concerned about what the actual transition will look like, let them know it’s normal to feel a little anxious or overwhelmed about it, so they don’t spend time worrying about their worries.

Break Things Down

Breaking down overwhelming tasks into more manageable steps can ease your teen’s anxiety and give them a boost of self-esteem.

During the application process, that might look like creating checklists or deadlines for things, rather than trying to tackle it all at once.

Encourage your teenager to celebrate the small victories, even as they transition to college on their own. If they accomplish something, no matter how small it is, they should celebrate their progress. This will help them stay motivated and confident throughout their college experience.

Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care looks different for everyone, so encourage your teen to find things that will fit into their daily routine. Anything that promotes their overall well-being is helpful.

Things like exercise, getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and journaling are all great forms of self-care that can be done now and as they transition to college. Establishing a self-care routine can improve mental wellness, reduce anxiety, and make it easier for your teen to feel grounded as they go through this transition period of life.

Self-care can also give your teen the confidence they need to pursue their own interests and to be their authentic selves, rather than worrying about what others might want or expect from them.

Seek Support

Promoting self-advocacy is important. It will encourage your teen to get help on their own in school when they need it. That might include asking questions to a professor, working with a guidance counselor, or even talking to a mental health professional.

If you find that your teen is struggling with anxiety now, during the application process, you can teach them the importance of reaching out for help by trying therapy for anxiety.

Therapy, even before college, can help your teen better understand where their anxious thoughts stem from and why they might be getting worse. Your teen’s therapist will help them learn techniques to manage their symptoms effectively. They can take those tools with them to school and use them for the rest of their lives.

So, while it’s normal to be nervous during this chapter of life, those nerves don’t have to take over your teen’s entire thought process. If you’re trying to be a support system for them, you don’t have to do it on your own. Reach out for a consultation today.

We love to think of the teenage years as a time where children go through “phases.” Disobeying their parents, sleeping more, skipping class, being irritable and complaining—all natural teenage behaviors. But what happens when these things become more than just phases? What if they are more persistent, interfering with their daily lives in a negative way? It’s possible that it may be more than just a phase, it could be depression.

Teen depression is a serious mental health condition that affects how adolescents think, feel, and function. It’s more common than people realize, and unfortunately, it’s often misunderstood as typical teen moodiness. Understanding the signs and impact of depression during adolescence is important for early intervention and long-term emotional well-being.

Why Is Depression Hard to Spot in Teens?

Teenagers are going through significant changes. This can make it challenging to distinguish between normal teenage ups and downs and something more serious, like clinical depression.

• Mood swings are expected, making emotional changes easy to dismiss
• Teens may hide their feelings out of fear, shame, or not wanting to burden others
• Parents may attribute changes to hormones or assume their child is just being dramatic
• Irritability, not sadness, is often the main symptom in teens, which can be misread as defiance

Common Signs of Depression

While depression can look different in every individual, there are several warning signs to watch out for in adolescents:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness that lasts for more than two weeks
• Irritability or anger that seems disproportionate or hard to explain
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities they enjoy
• Changes in sleep patterns, including insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Noticeable changes in appetite, either overeating or significant weight loss
• Fatigue or low energy, even with adequate rest
• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or excessive self-criticism 
• Talking about death or suicide, or engaging in self-harming behaviors
• Physical complaints, like headaches or stomachaches, without a clear medical cause

Causes and Risk Factors for Teen Depression

There is no single cause of depression. Instead, it’s typically the result of a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: A family history of depression can increase the risk
• Brain chemistry: Changes in neurotransmitters or hormonal shifts during puberty
• Trauma or abuse: Past or current exposure to trauma, neglect, bullying, or harassment
• Chronic stress: Academic pressure, social comparisons, family conflicts, or identity crises
• Low self-esteem: Negative self-image or feelings of inadequacy
• Lack of support: Feeling isolated or misunderstood by peers or adults

It’s important to remember that depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. There is nothing wrong with your teen. It is a medical condition that requires compassionate care and treatment.

What You Can Do to Help a Teen with Depression

If you suspect a teenager in your life may be struggling with depression, try some of these steps:

• Listen without judgement: Create a safe space where they can actually speak their mind openly.
• Don’t minimize their pain: Avoid using phrases like “You have nothing to be sad about,” or “This won’t matter in a few years.”
• Encourage healthy habits: Sleep, nutrition, exercise, and social connection all support depression recovery.
• Stay connected: Even if they pull away, continue showing them care and availability.
• Educate yourself: Learn about teen mental health to better understand what they’re experiencing.
• Seek immediate help: If your teen is engaging in self-harming behaviors or talking about wanting to end their lives, don’t wait! Get them medical attention right away.

Therapy Makes a Difference

Therapy for teens offers teens a confidential space to explore their thoughts and feelings with the guidance of a professional. In therapy, teens can:

• Learn coping skills to manage emotions
• Identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones
• Build communication and problem-solving skills
• Improve self-esteem and emotional resilience

Teen depression is serious, but also treatable. With the right support, your teen can begin to feel better and reconnect with joy in their life! Reach out today to learn more about how DenverCAC can support your teen.

The intense amount of pressure adolescents face nowadays is enough to make anyone anxious. It’s normal for teens to experience stress and anxiety; it’s all a part of growing up! However, persistent anxiety can take a toll on their mental health, affecting more than just their own well-being. Unfortunately, signs of anxiety in teens are overlooked as “typical teenage behaviors.”

Anxiety isn’t just worry, it’s a mental health condition that can impact a teen’s quality of life. Recognizing these signs early and getting proper intervention can make all the difference.

1. Frequent Physical Complaints Without a Medical Cause

Anxiety can show up in the body before we even realize it’s there. Teens struggling with anxiety may have unexplainable complaints about how they’re feeling.

Physical symptoms may be:

• Stomachaches or nausea, especially before school or social events
• Headaches or migraines
• Muscle tension or fatigue
• Dizziness or shortness of breath
• Difficultly sleeping or frequent nightmares

These symptoms will occur in the absence of a medical condition and may worsen during times of high stress.

2. Excessive Worry or Catastrophic Thinking

While it’s normal for teens to worry about their grades, friendships, appearances, or their future, anxiety can make these thoughts overwhelming and constant.

Look for signs like:

• Repeatedly asking about “what if” scenarios and fearing the worst possible outcome for certain situations
• Struggling to move past minor mistakes or their perceived failures
• Constantly seeking reassurance from caregivers, teachers, or friends
• An exaggerated fear of something bad happening to loved ones

This persistent worry about daily situations can interfere with overall functioning.

3. Avoidance of Social Situations or Responsibilities

Anxiety can make teens avoid activities that trigger their fears. This isn’t just about them being “shy,” it’s a coping mechanism that protects them from threats to their safety, even if these threats are everyday experiences.

Examples of avoidance include:

• Skipping school or asking to leave early due to “not feeling well”
• Avoiding extracurriculars or previously enjoyed hobbies
• Withdrawing from friends or family gatherings
• Refusing to speak in class or participate in group projects

Over time, this kind of avoidance can lead to isolation and a decrease in self-esteem.

4. Changes in Academic Performance or Focus

A decline in school performance doesn’t always mean laziness or lack of motivation, it can be a symptom of anxiety. Teens with anxiety may struggle to concentrate, stay organized, or retain information.

Watch out for:

• Drop in grades or missing assignments
• Procrastination or perfectionism that interferes with their progress
• Trouble focusing in class or doing homework
• Overreacting to minor academic setbacks

Anxiety makes it nearly impossible to concentrate when the mind is in a constant state of “what if?”

5. Irritability and Emotional Outbursts

While anxiety is often associated with nervousness or fear, it can also present as irritation or even anger, especially in teenagers. They may not always have the emotional language or coping tools to express their turmoil, so it comes out in more reactive ways.

Emotional signs may include:

• Snapping at family or friends
• Easily frustrated by small problems
• Crying unexpectedly or becoming suddenly overwhelmed
• Mood swings that seem out of proportion to the situation

Emotional outbursts like this are not a sign of defiance, it’s a sign of internal distress.

6. Restlessness and Compulsive Behaviors

Some teens show their anxiety through constant motion or repetitive behaviors aimed at managing their discomfort. These may not always be obvious, but they’re worth paying attention to.

Behaviors may include:

• Nail-biting, skin-picking, or hair-twirling
• Pacing, fighting, or frequent restroom visits
• Repetitive checking, whether to make sure their doors are locked or that things are perfect
• Over-planning or following rigid routines

These actions are attempts to create a sense of control in their world that feels chaotic.

Don’t Wait—Get Support Today

If you notice these anxiety signs in your teen, teen counseling may be an invaluable resource. Reach out to one of our mental health therapists to help your child navigate through their anxiety and come out on top!

When we think of kids having Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), we often imagine young children bouncing off the walls or struggling to sit still in a classroom. However, when ADHD shows up in teenagers, it can look significantly different. Sometimes, it may even go undiagnosed altogether. The teenage years bring unique developmental changes, social pressures, and greater academic demands, all of which can mask or reshape how ADHD presents.

Why ADHD Symptoms May Look Different in Teens

As children with ADHD enter adolescence, their symptoms often evolve. While some signs like hyperactivity may lessen, others, such as emotional regulation difficulties, may become more apparent.

Symptoms may shift from:

• Increased responsibilities: Teens are expected to manage more—schoolwork, extracurriculars, and social interactions. ADHD-related struggles with organization and time management become more noticeable.
• Social awareness: Teens become more self-conscious and may mask or internalize these symptoms to fit in.
• Hormonal changes: Shifts in mood and energy levels can intensify ADHD symptoms or mimic other mental health issues.
• Environmental expectations: As academic and social environments become more demanding, symptoms may worsen.

Common ADHD Symptoms in Teens

1. Difficulty with Focus and Attention

While younger children may seem easily distracted, teens with ADHD often struggle with tasks that require sustained mental effort, like studying or following long conversations.

• Zoning out during class or conversations with people
• Frequently losing track of assignments or deadlines
• Making careless mistakes due to inattention

2. Executive Functioning Challenges

Executive function skills include planning, organizing, and prioritizing—all essential skills for teens to learn.

• Trouble organizing schoolwork, sports, or chores
• Constantly misplacing personal items
• Starting tasks but struggling to complete them

3. Emotional Dysregulation

Teenagers with ADHD often experience intense emotions and have difficulty managing them.

• Frequent mood swings or emotional outbursts
• Low frustration tolerance
• Difficulty calming down after being upset

* Sometimes this can be mistaken for “typical teenage behavior,” however the intensity and frequency of the dysregulation tend to be higher in those with ADHD.

4. Impulsivity

Impulsivity doesn’t always mean physical recklessness. In teens, it may show up in social situations and decision-making contexts.

• Interrupting conversations or blurting things out
• Engaging in risky behaviors without considering consequences
• Difficulty waiting their turn or thinking through their actions

5. Restlessness or Hyperactivity

Although physical hyperactivity may decrease with age, teens may still feel an internal restlessness.

• Feeling “on edge” or having trouble relaxing
• Constantly tapping, fidgeting, or moving
• Seeking constant stimulation and jumping from activity to activity

6. Poor Academic Performance

ADHD doesn’t affect intelligence, but it can heavily impact performance due to its effects on focus, organization, and follow-through.

• Underperforming in school despite their abilities and knowledge
• Inconsistent academic results with grades and test scores
• Avoidance of assignments or heavy procrastination tendencies

7. Low Self-Esteem and Social Struggles

Many teens with ADHD experience repeated failure or criticism for how they act or behave, which can really break down their self-worth.

• Withdrawal from social situations
• Sensitivity to rejection or criticism
• Belief that they are “lazy” or “not smart”

Why Symptoms are Often Missed or Misunderstood

ADHD symptoms in teens can be mistaken for:

• Depression or anxiety (due to emotional dysregulation or withdrawal)
• Oppositional defiant behavior (because of impulsivity or frustration)
• Laziness or lack of motivation (because of executive functioning deficits)

In some cases, high-achieving teens may mask their ADHD with excessive effort, only to struggle significantly in college or adulthood when this mask starts to slip away.

How Therapy Can Help!

Professional support can make a significant difference for teens living with ADHD. Therapy provides tools to:

• Develop time management and organizational skills
• Improve emotional regulation and coping skills
• Build confidence and a stronger sense of identity
• Address co-occurring mental health issues like anxiety or depression
• Neurofeedback is a specific kind of therapy that helps retrain brainwaves and is evidenced based in treating ADHD symptoms. DenverCAC is now offering neurofeedback.  Check out our neurofeedback page to learn more!

 

Support is available! Reach out today for a consultation and help your teen thrive.

 

Published August 6, 2025 by Mary Ellen Benz

Teenagers are often perceived as moody or unpredictable, but it’s crucial to distinguish between normal adolescent behavior and signs of depression. Depression in teens doesn’t always look like prolonged feelings of sadness; it manifests in different ways, making it challenging for parents, teachers, and other peers to recognize. Let’s take a deeper dive into what depression may look like in teens.

Emotional Changes

• Irritability and Anger: Teens with depression often exhibit irritability or frequent outbursts of anger instead of stereotypical sadness. They may lash out at loved ones over seemingly minor issues.
• Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: They might feel deeply unhappy or have a pretty negative view on life, even if nothing specific seemed to have triggered it.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Teens may believe they’re a burden to others, express self-loathing, or feel excessive guilt for making small mistakes.

Behavioral Changes

• Withdrawal from Activities: Depression can lead teens to lose interest in hobbies or extracurricular activities they previously enjoyed. They may avoid social gatherings or isolate themselves in their room.
• Decline in Academic Performance: A noticeable drop in grades or a lack of motivation to complete assignments can be a red flag.
• Risky Behavior: Some teens might engage in reckless activities, such as substance abuse, unsafe sexual behavior, or thrill-seeking as a way to cope or escape from emotional pain.

Physical Symptoms

• Fatigue or Low Energy: Teens with depression often feel physically drained, even after minimal effort. They may complain about feeling tired all the time.
• Changes in Appetite or Weight: Some teens may lose interest in food, while others may overeat to find comfort, resulting in potential health issues and weight fluctuations.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, trouble staying asleep, or oversleeping can all be signs of depression.

Cognitive Changes

• Difficulty Concentrating: Depression can make it hard for teens to focus in class or while completing tasks. Lack of focus can lead to frustrations and a sense of overwhelm.
• Negative Thought Patterns: Teens may dwell on negative thoughts or make small issues seem unbearable.
• Indecisiveness: They may struggle to make even simple decisions, such as choosing what to wear or what to eat.

Social Changes

• Conflicts with Peers or Family: Depression can lead to heightened sensitivity to criticism or perceived rejection. This may cause more arguments or strained relationships.
• Avoidance of Social Interactions: Teens may start to skip social outings, refuse invitations, or stop responding to messages from friends.
• Increased Dependency on Online Activities: Some teens retreat to excessive use of social media, gaming, or internet surfing to escape their emotional struggles.

Warning Signs of Severe Depression

If you begin to notice any of the following signs, seek help for your teen immediately.

• Self-Harm Behaviors: Cutting, burning, scratching, or other forms of self-injury are often a coping mechanism for teens dealing with intense emotional pain.
• Talk of Death or Suicide: Any mention of wanting to die, feeling life is meaningless, or making plans to harm themselves should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
• Giving Away Belongings or Saying Goodbye: Making plans to give out or donate possessions, or finding that they are speaking in a way that feels finalized, it may mean they are contemplating suicide.

What Parents and Caregivers Can Do

Have open conversations. Approach your teen with empathy and a nonjudgmental attitude. Start the conversation by saying, “I have noticed you seem down lately. Do you want to talk about anything?”

Create a supportive environment and encourage healthy habits, including exercise and a consistent sleep schedule. Show them unconditional love and support no matter what.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Contact a mental health professional who has experience with adolescents. Early intervention is crucial and can make a significant difference. Therapy is a safe, supportive environment for your teen to learn skills on how to overcome depression and cope with difficult emotions. Call us for more information!

Published: January 9th, 2025

Teen suicide is a growing concern worldwide, affecting thousands of individuals, families, and communities. Adolescence is a period of intense changes, and for some, these changes become so overwhelming that it leads to thoughts of self-harm and suicide. Understanding these causes is crucial for addressing the crisis; it may even be life-saving.

Why Teen Suicide Matters

Teen suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals aged between 15-19. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 700,000 people die by suicide every year, with a significant portion of these deaths occurring among teens. For every teen who dies by suicide, others may attempt it, creating a ripple effect.

The good news? Teen suicide is preventable. As caregivers, educators, and professionals, it’s important to be able to identify warning signs and help teens navigate these challenging feelings in a safe, supportive environment.

Common Causes of Teen Suicide

Mental Health Challenges

Mental health issues, like depression and anxiety, are the most significant contributors to teen suicide. These conditions often go undiagnosed or untreated, leaving teens to cope with emotional pain on their own.

• Teens with depression may experience feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and persistent sadness.
• Anxiety can present as extreme fear, worry, or panic, which may feel unmanageable.
• Lack of access to mental health resources can make these symptoms worse.

Bullying and Social Pressures

Adolescents are highly influenced by their social environment. Experiences like bullying, peer rejection, or harassment can lead to feelings of isolation and low self-worth.

• Social media can amplify bullying, making it harder for teens to escape the harassment.
• Teens often feel pressure to conform to expectations, or achieve unrealistic goals, in order to “fit in” with others.
• Not feeling accepted by others can cause self-esteem issues, which only increases feelings of hopelessness.

Family Dynamics and Trauma

Family relationships play a significant role in a teen’s emotional well-being. Conflict, neglect, and abuse within the home can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

• Teens from families with a history of mental illness or suicide may be more vulnerable.
• Traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, sexual or physical abuse, can deeply affect teens’ mental health.

Academic and Extracurricular Stress

Many teens face intense pressure to excel academically and participate in extracurricular activities, often at the expense of their own mental health.

• Overwhelming workloads and a fear of failure can lead to burnout and exhaustion from life.
• Teens may feel that their self-worth is tied to their achievements, creating a fear of disappointing others.

Substance Abuse

Experimentation with drugs and alcohol is common during adolescence, but it can have dangerous consequences for vulnerable teens.

• Substance use can impair judgment, making impulsive actions more likely.
• It may also serve as an unhealthy coping mechanism for their pain.

Warning Signs of Teen Suicide

• Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities, or drastic mood changes.
• Verbal Cues: Statements like “I wish I wasn’t here anymore,” or “Life isn’t worth living.”
• Physical Symptoms: Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels.
• Risky Behaviors: Increased drug and alcohol use, reckless actions, or self-harm.
• Giving Away Possessions: This can indicate planning or intent to act on suicidal thoughts.

How to Help a Teen in Crisis

If you suspect a teen is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s essential to act immediately.

• Start a Conversation: Expressing your concern and offering your help is a great way to start the conversation.
• Listen Actively: Let them share their feelings without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
• Remove Immediate Risks: If you suspect immediate danger, ensure that the teen does not have access to anything that can cause them harm, and seek help right away.
• Seek Professional Help: Encourage them to speak to a counselor, therapist, or school psychologist. Therapy is a great way to ensure their safety and to help them work through these distressing thoughts. If you know someone struggling, reach out right away.

If you live in Colorado you or your child can call or text the Colorado Mental Health Line at *988.

If you are concerned about the safety for yourself or a loved one, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room or mental health crisis center.

It is hard to think clearly when you are having suicidal thoughts, this is why it is so important to seek help immediately so that you or your loved one can be kept safe.

When your teenager loses a friend to suicide, it’s a heartbreaking and overwhelming experience to say the least. As a parent, you may feel unsure about how to provide the support your teen. It also may bring up some of your own fears for your child’s mental health and safety. Here are some important things to remember when it comes to supporting your teen through this  confusing and painful time.

Understand Everyone Experiences Grief Differently

Everyone experiences grief differently and teens are no exception. It is normal to experience a vast range of emotions during the grieving process including: shock, denial, sadness, anger, avoidance, guilt, or confusion. Here are some of the most common reactions to grief:

• Withdrawal from loved ones
• Difficulty sleeping, or sleeping more than usual
• Difficulty concentrating in school
• Struggling with grades, failing test
• Risky behaviors
•  Feeling numb
• Expressions of hopelessness or guilt

Communication and a Safe Space

One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to create a safe space for your teen to talk, when they are ready. Try to resist the urge to ask the questions you may have out of curiosity and make sure not to force them to open up if they are not ready. Let them know you are here for them if they want to talk. Ask them questions like “How can I support you best in this time?” If they tell them they don’t know, you can let them know it’s okay they aren’t sure what they need, and if they do think of anything that might be helpful, they can let you know. You also might ask them “what is not helpful?” Sometimes for teens it’s easier to identify things that frustrate them over the helpful things, this allows you to do the opposite and potentially help them feel more supported in this difficult time.

Your teenager may not open up right away, but knowing that they can talk to you if and when they are ready is crucial. Let them know they are not alone in their grief and you are there to support them.  The beginning stages of grief are often experienced in shock in denial. Often by the time someone’s brain can actually wrap their head around what has happened, and they need support the most, everyone has moved on with their life. Make sure to check in weeks and even months later. This let’s them know it’s okay to still be grieving.

Don’t Make it About You

Make sure you aren’t making it about you. While this is likely never a parent’s intention. Suicide is not just heartbreaking and overwhelming for the teen, it is scary for adults too. It can bring up fears surrounding your own child’s mental health.  If your child has been actively suicidal in the past, it is a good time to check in with them on their own thoughts. If you have safety concerns for them, you should immediately take them to the emergency room or a mental health crisis center to be evaluated. If you do not have immediate safety concerns, try self-regulate so you can show up for them in the ways they need.  If teens see their parents falling apart, they may feel they need to keep their feelings to themselves so they don’t “overwhelm” their caregiver. It is of course ok to show them your grief for them and the situation, but they need to know the adults in their lives are taking care of them during this time, rather than feeling they need to be strong for their caregivers. This can be tough to balance, so it’s best to reach out to other adults in your life for support so you can best support your teen during this time.

Allow them to be sad. As caregivers, we often want to fix things for our children, because it is so heartbreaking to see them in pain. However, when we try to fix things, or rush along grief, we communicate it is not okay to be sad. As a caregiver, you have to learn how to sit in your own grief so they can feel the freedom to grief at the pace they need.

Supporting Your Teenager’s Mental Health

While emotional support from family is important, professional therapy can also be a crucial part of healing after a loss, especially because suicide isn’t just grief, it’s also trauma.  Trauma-informed grief counseling can provide your teenager with a safe space to process their experience and heal from the trauma they have experienced.

Seeking mental health therapy can prevent elongated suffering and help your child gain strength in the face of tragedy. Parent’s can also benefit from counseling in processing their own emotions related to these experiences. This helps them to show up better for their teen, and it models it’s okay to ask for help.

Tips for Helping Your Teen Cope with Loss

Here are some additional strategies you can use to support your teen during this challenging time:

1. Normalize Grief

It’s important for teens to understand that grief is a normal reaction to losing someone they care about. Encourage them to express their emotions, whether through talking, journaling, or engaging in creative activities like art or music.

2. Maintain Routine and Structure

After a traumatic event, maintaining a sense of routine can provide your teen with a sense of stability. Encourage them to stay engaged with school, extracurricular activities, and social connections.

3. Monitor Their Mental Health

Keep an eye on how your teen is coping with their emotions. If you notice concerning behaviors like withdrawing from loved ones, expressing hopelessness, or engaging in self-harm, it’s crucial to seek professional help right away.

4. Encourage Peer Support

Teenagers often find comfort in talking to friends who may be going through similar emotions. Encouraging your teen to connect with their peers can help them feel less isolated in their grief.

When to Seek Professional Therapy

It’s natural for your teenager to experience intense emotions after losing a friend to suicide, but if their grief seems to persist or worsen over time, it may be time to consider professional counseling. Prolonged sadness, feelings of guilt, or changes in behavior like disengagement from daily activities could indicate that your teen is struggling to process the loss on their own.

Finding a therapist that specializes in working with teens experiencing grief can help your child work through their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies for managing their grief. If you feel your teenager could benefit from counseling, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Losing a friend to suicide is a life-changing event for any teenager. As a parent, your role is to provide comfort, patience, and a supportive environment where your child feels safe to express their emotions. Professional mental health therapy is an invaluable resource that can help your teen navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss.

If your family is seeking support during this difficult time, we are here to help. Our specialized therapists are trained to work with teens and children, providing the care and guidance they need to heal. We also work to support parents through parent coaching so that you can best support your child. If you think counseling may help you or your teen. Don’t hesitate to reach out today for a free 15 minute phone consultation.

Adolescence is a time of significant change! Bodies start to grow, identities begin to form, and emotions are felt on a much deeper level. Due to high emotional states and the still-growing ability to regulate them effectively, teenagers are more likely to develop mental disorders such as depression.

Depression manifests differently in teens than it does adults, and it often shows up as irritability, withdrawal, or declining performance in school. There are ways to help teens in need. If you start to notice signs of depression, try these 4 steps:

1. Open the Lines of Communication

The first step is to make sure that teens are supported through open, nonjudgmental lines of communication. Teens may not always feel comfortable expressing their feelings, especially if they fear they will not be understood. It’s important for them to know that they have people there to talk to, no matter how difficult or uncomfortable the conversation might be.

Tips for Improving Communication:

• Listen more, talk less: Instead of immediately offering advice or solutions, practice active listening. Let your teen know that you hear them and understand what they’re going through.
• Validate their emotions: Teens need to know that their feelings are valid, even if their struggles seem minor or temporary from an adult’s perspective. Avoid minimizing their experiences by saying things like “This won’t matter in a few years,” or “It’s just a phase.”
• Ask open-ended questions: Instead of asking “yes” or “no” questions, encourage deeper conversation by asking, “How have you been feeling lately?” or “What’s been on you mind?”

2. Create a Supportive Environment

Home should be where a teen feels safe. When a teen is struggling with depression, they may need extra attention, patience, and flexibility from their family. A supportive home can help teens manage stress, process emotions, and regain a sense of stability.

Ways to Make a Home Safe:

• Establish routines: Depression can disrupt a teen’s sense of structure. Help your teen by establishing consistent routines, including regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and study times.
• Limit excessive pressure: Teens today face significant pressure from school, extracurricular activities, and social media. Try to alleviate some of this pressure by emphasizing that their personal well-being is more important than academic and social achievements.
• Promote healthy habits: A healthy lifestyle can improve a teen’s emotional well-being. Encourage regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.

3. Be Aware of Warning Signs and Take Action

Recognizing signs of depression or suicidal ideation is critical. Depression can escalate quickly, so you want to be sure to identify signs sooner rather than later.

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Sudden withdrawal from family, friends, or activities: If your teen is isolating themselves more than usual, it could be a sign that depression is worsening.
• Risk-taking behavior: Engaging in reckless or dangerous activities, such as substance abuse or self-harm.
• Talk of death or suicide: Any mention of wanting to die, disappear, or end their life should be taken seriously, even if it seems casual or offhand.

If you notice any of these signs in your teen, it’s important to address the issue quickly, seek immediate help, and offer love and support.

4. Encourage Professional Help

Professional treatment is often needed in treating depression. Therapy can help teens develop healthy coping mechanisms and provide a safe, neutral space to explore their feelings.

Ways to Support Professional Treatment:

• Normalize therapy: Help your teen understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Normalize the idea that therapy is something that helps people, like going to the doctor when you have physical illness.
• Offer assistance: Some teens might feel overwhelmed by the idea of finding a therapist on their own. Offer your help with research on local therapists and attend consultation appointments.
• Encouragement: Allow them to make the decision on their own time, and keep encouraging them to seek help and to talk to support people.

In 2024, the mental health of teenagers is a growing concern, as both depression and anxiety continue to rise at alarming rates. The unique pressures teens face today—ranging from academic stress to the influence of social media—have fueled an unprecedented mental health crisis. More than ever, teens and their families are seeking professional counseling to address these challenges and improve their emotional well-being.

The Mental Health Crisis Among Teens in 2024

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders affecting teens today. Recent data from the CDC reveals that nearly 20% of teens have experienced at least one major depressive episode within the last year​. In addition, one in three teens suffers from an anxiety disorder, a number that has steadily increased over the past decade​.

The mental health crisis in teens is driven by several factors:

• Social Media and Cyberbullying: Teens today spend more time online than ever before, and while social media can offer connection, it can also lead to negative comparisons, feelings of inadequacy, and even cyberbullying. This constant exposure to filtered realities can severely impact teens’ self-esteem and lead to anxiety and depression.
• Academic and Extracurricular Pressures: The competition to succeed academically and secure spots in top universities places enormous stress on teens. With packed schedules, overwhelming workloads, and high expectations from parents and schools, many teens struggle to manage their mental health.
• Isolation and Loneliness: Despite being hyper-connected through technology, many teens report feeling more isolated than ever. A lack of meaningful, in-person interactions can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression.

How Counseling Can Help Teens Cope with Depression and Anxiety

While the statistics are concerning, mental health counseling offers effective solutions to help teens manage their emotions and overcome challenges. Here’s how professional counseling is making a difference for teens:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely used therapy that helps teens identify and change negative thought patterns contributing to their depression and anxiety. The CDC reports studies show that 60-80% of teens who undergo CBT experience significant improvement in their mental health​. Through therapy, teens learn to challenge their inner critic, manage stress, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

2. Providing a Safe Space for Expression

Many teens feel misunderstood or afraid to open up about their struggles. Counseling provides a safe, judgment-free environment where teens can talk openly about their emotions. This space for self-expression is crucial for teens dealing with depression or anxiety, as it allows them to process their feelings and receive guidance from a mental health professional.

3. Tailored Approaches for Each Teen

Each teen’s mental health journey is unique, and therapy plans should reflect that. Mental health professionals work closely with teens to design personalized treatment plans based on their specific needs. This might include a combination of talk therapy, stress management techniques, mindfulness exercises, or emotional skill-building activities.

4. Telehealth Counseling for Accessibility

Telehealth counseling, which became more prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to be a valuable tool in 2024. Teens and their families can now access mental health services from the comfort of their homes, reducing the barriers that might otherwise prevent them from seeking help. Research shows that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for treating depression and anxiety in teens​, with busy school schedules and extracurricular activities, this flexibility ensures that mental health care is accessible.  However, some people still prefer in person therapy and DenverCAC offers both in person therapy and telehealth based on client preference and needs.

5. Developing Resilience and Emotional Skills

Counseling doesn’t just focus on reducing symptoms in the short term; it aims to equip teens with lifelong emotional skills. Teens learn techniques like emotional regulation, mindfulness, and resilience, which help them cope with future stressors. These skills are especially important as teens transition to adulthood, ensuring they are better prepared to handle life’s challenges.

Early Intervention is Key

As teen depression and anxiety rates continue to rise, it is crucial for parents and guardians to be proactive in seeking help. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term emotional distress. Teens who receive counseling early often experience shorter recovery times and develop a stronger foundation for mental well-being in adulthood.

How to Support Your Teen’s Mental Health

Parents and guardians play a critical role in supporting their teen’s mental health. Encouraging open conversations, being supportive, and connecting them to professional resources are some of the most impactful steps you can take. Here are a few ways to help:

• Promote Open Communication: Create a safe, non-judgmental space where your teen feels comfortable sharing their emotions and struggles. The more supported they feel, the more likely they are to seek help.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Encourage your teen to engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and hobbies that they enjoy.
• Seek Professional Counseling: If your teen is showing signs of depression or anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Early counseling can make a significant difference in their ability to cope and recover.

As depression and anxiety continue to rise among teens in 2024, mental health counseling remains a critical resource for those struggling to manage their emotions. With the right support, teens can overcome their mental health challenges and develop resilience that will serve them well into adulthood. If you or your teen is facing mental health difficulties, reach out to a  today to take the first step towards helping yourself or your teen heal.

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