The teen years are difficult because the young, innocent child you once knew is now on a mission to separate from the family and become their own person. Sometimes this shows up by the teen staying in their room most of the time, not wanting to spend as much time with the family, or being moody. These are all normal teen things, but how do you know when there is more going on?

There are several signs:

• A significant drop in grades or academic performance
• Major change in social group
• Isolating from friends for a significant period of time
• Loss of interest in a hobby or sport they used to enjoy
• Significant change in weight or sleep routines
•  Mood changes that disrupt relationships most days

If your teen is experiencing a number of these signs at the same time, it might be time to seek additional help from a therapist.

Jennifer Wilmoth, LAMFT

Jwilmoth@ GROWcounseling.com