Here’s something you’ve said or thought, probably more than once:
I’m so glad I’m not a teenager in today’s world—I’m so glad social media wasn’t around when I was a teen!
Yet, if you’re a parent of a teen you likely still feel some of what they’re feeling—plus an added layer: powerless.
According to a 2023 study by the CDC, almost half of teens—42% felt persistent feelings of hopelessness in 2021.
It’s more important than ever to be aware of how these things can impact the swiftly changing teenage brain, and be on the lookout for signs that your teen needs help.
The truth is, we don’t know the long-term effects of technology and how it’s shaping our young people. It hasn’t been around enough to develop any studies that have any real longevity. And that—coupled with the pandemic—the disruption to schools, education, routine and the world at large, has had quite an impact on today’s teens.
Changes Brought on by the Pandemic
One of the most critical aspects of development during the teenage years is social interaction with peers, and overnight, that was no longer a reality. It happened fast. Schools shut down, and parks closed.
And even though things are relatively stable now, the pandemic had an impact on teens’ view of the world, painting it as a scary unpredictable place. The “normal” concerns, worries, and emotional ups and downs that characterize adolescent development carried the additional weight of fear, and many had to carry this burden in isolation.
Without sports or other peer groups, teens felt incredibly alone and leaned heavily on social media and other online sites for that sense of connection.
Social media—which has proven to be a major contributing factor of anxiety and depression—became the main source for peer interaction.
Social Media and Depression
The truth is, we don’t know the long-term effects of technology on the adolescent brain. It hasn’t been around enough to run any studies with real longevity.
Studies show that social media can negatively impact a teenager’s mental health, though not every teen is vulnerable. According to the study, the teens most susceptible were the teens being harassed online, or those who had become addicted to various online forums or social media sites. So much so, that it disrupted sleep and general everyday activities. Teens with poor self-esteem were also at risk of having social media negatively impact their mental health.
How to Know if Your Teen Needs Help
Both of those factors are things that only the recent generation of teens have had to deal with, and here are some signs that your teen could be struggling:
- They’ve become withdrawn and secretive
- They’re always on their phone (and any attempts at taking it away are met with an unreasonable amount of anger!)
- They’re sleeping all the time or not sleeping at all
- They’ve lost interest in things they used to really enjoy
- They express feelings of overwhelm, sadness, or hopelessness
- They break the rules or become combative and defiant
- Their grades plummet
- You notice signs of cutting, or a possible eating disorder
- You get the sense that something is “off”
If you’re worried that your teen is struggling or dealing with something that may require more assistance than you as a parent can provide, therapy is an excellent resource.
At the Relationship Therapy Center, our goal is to meet your teen where they are. By forming trusting relationships, we not only help them work through their mental discomfort. We also teach them incredibly important skills they can use for the rest of their life. By helping them forge a solid trusting relationship with themselves, we instill the strength and resources required for them to truly shine.
Begin Teen Therapy in the Sacramento Area:
If you’ve been concerned about your child’s mental health and behavior, then getting help from a compassionate teen therapist may be the support you’ve been looking for. We will be an ally for your teen and help them navigate the challenges of adolescence. To begin counseling in Fair Oaks, CA, Roseville, CA or online, follow these steps
- Contact the Relationship Therapy Center and schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to learn more about in-person or online teen therapy.
- Make an appointment for your teen to meet with one of our compassionate teen therapists.
- Get the support your teen needs to navigate adolescent challenges with confidence!
Other Services offered at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:
In addition to teen therapy, Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones heal and grow.