What are warning signs of a mental health problem in my teenager?

Adolescence involves real emotional ups and downs and a healthy push toward independence. The Canadian Paediatric Society points to duration, intensity, and impact as what distinguishes typical teen moods from a concern: changes that last more than a couple of weeks, are severe, or interfere with daily life — friendships, school, family, self-care — are the ones to take seriously.

Persistent sadness, irritability, or hopelessness; loss of interest in friends and activities they used to enjoy; marked changes in sleep or appetite; falling grades or skipping school; increased risk-taking or substance use; talk of worthlessness or being a burden; and — always urgent — any mention of self-harm or suicide. Any expression of suicidal thinking is an emergency: contact a crisis line, your provider, or emergency services right away.

Siegel's work on the adolescent brain reframes this age as a period of important development, not just difficulty, and stresses staying connected. Approach with calm curiosity rather than interrogation, listen without rushing to fix, and take what your teen says seriously. Honour their growing autonomy while making clear you are there — and loop in professionals for anything touching safety or lasting change.