What Are Common Mental Health Disorders in Adolescents?

Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and change - socially, emotionally, and academically. While stress and mood shifts can be part of normal development, ongoing emotional distress, behavior changes, or difficulties at school and home may signal a mental health concern. Understanding common mental health disorders in adolescents can help families recognize warning signs early and pursue the right support.

At The Lighthouse of Frisco, we offer compassionate, evidence-based adolescent psychiatry services led by Dr. McKnight, our board-certified psychiatrist. Care is tailored to each teen’s needs, with attention to family dynamics, school stressors, and overall well-being.

Why Mental Health Can Look Different in Teens

 

Teen mental health concerns don’t always look like sadness or worry. Adolescents may show distress through irritability, withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite, declining grades, increased conflict, risk-taking, or physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches. A helpful rule of thumb is to watch for changes that are persistent (lasting weeks), intense (disrupting daily life), and impactful (affecting relationships, school, sleep, or safety).

Anxiety Disorders

 

Anxiety is one of the most common concerns in teens. It may show up as constant worry, panic symptoms, perfectionism, or avoidance of social or school situations. Teens may also experience sleep issues and frequent physical complaints.

Depressive Disorders

 

Depression in adolescents often appears as irritability, low motivation, withdrawal, or feeling “numb,” not just sadness. Symptoms can include changes in sleep and appetite, trouble concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness. Any talk of self-harm or suicide should be treated as urgent.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

 

ADHD can become more noticeable as school demands increase. Teens may struggle with focus, organization, time management, forgetfulness, and impulsivity. ADHD can also overlap with anxiety or depression, especially when academic pressure and self-esteem are affected.

Bipolar Disorder and Mood Dysregulation

 

Some teens experience mood symptoms that go beyond typical ups and downs. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression and episodes of elevated or unusually irritable mood with increased energy. Signs may include decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, and noticeable shifts in functioning. Because mood symptoms can have multiple causes, a thorough psychiatric evaluation is important.

Trauma-Related Disorders (Including PTSD)

 

Trauma can stem from bullying, abuse, violence, loss, accidents, or ongoing high-stress environments. Teens may become hypervigilant, irritable, withdrawn, or have sleep disturbances and avoidance behaviors. Trauma symptoms can sometimes look like anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues.

Eating Disorders

 

Eating disorders often begin during adolescence and can become medically dangerous. Warning signs include restrictive eating, obsession with weight or food, excessive exercise, body checking, or significant weight changes. Early intervention is critical for both physical and mental health.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

 

OCD involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals aimed at reducing distress. Teens may hide symptoms due to embarrassment, so compassionate, nonjudgmental conversations are important.

When to Seek Help

 

Consider professional support if your teen’s symptoms last more than two weeks, worsen over time, interfere with school or relationships, or include risky behavior. If your teen expresses hopelessness, talks about self-harm, or shows signs of being unsafe, seek immediate help through emergency services or a crisis resource.

How Adolescent Psychiatry Can Help

 

Adolescent psychiatry focuses on the unique developmental needs of teens. A comprehensive evaluation can clarify what’s happening and guide a personalized plan, which may include ongoing monitoring, therapy collaboration, and medication management when appropriate. At The Lighthouse of Frisco, Dr. McKnight provides board-certified expertise and a teen-centered approach focused on trust, respect, and evidence-based care.

Get Professional Support for Your Teen’s Mental Health

 

Mental health disorders in adolescents are common and treatable. With early support and the right plan, teens can learn effective coping strategies, improve daily functioning, and regain confidence at school and at home.

If you’re concerned about your teen’s mood, anxiety, attention, behavior, or overall well-being, The Lighthouse of Frisco is here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. McKnight to explore personalized adolescent psychiatric care and take the next step toward support and stability.  Click “Get Started” at www.tlhof.com, or call (214) 618-0544 to book your free consult today.