Just for Teens

Learn all about prevalent teen issues.

Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a family illness. Alcoholism can result in negative feelings in family members such as guilt, shame and anger. Often there are other family problems such as child abuse or neglect, partner abuse, or money problems. Remember you are not alone and if alcohol is a problem in your family get help.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problems that occur in adolescents. Anxiety is a real illness that can be debilitating and effect your well-being. Physical symptoms of anxiety disorders include: dry mouth, nausea, lightheadedness, hyperventilation or shortness of breath and sweating. Treatment works for many teens that have anxiety disorders.

Anger

Anger is a normal human emotion. The causes of anger vary from person to person and from situation to situation. Everyone feels angry sometimes. Anger is a feeling and isn't good or bad. It's what you do with your angry feelings that count. It is important to express your angry feelings in ways that help you keep control and won't hurt others. Some ways include: Stopping and thinking carefully before you speak,. Calmly and clearly explaining why you are angry and what the problem is, and remembering to use statements that focus on you and your needs, wants and feelings.

Depression

It is reported that depression affects more teens today than ever before. Adolescent depression affects 750,000 teens at any one time. It is important to remember that depression is a medical illness and is treatable. You or your friends do not have to face this alone.

Relationship Violence

Relationship violence is physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or verbal abuse committed by one partner against the other. In addition to the term relationship violence, "domestic violence" and "dating violence" are also used interchangeably to describe the same tactics. However, to be labeled domestic, the couple must be living together.

Suicide

Often there are subtle clues that someone is seriously thinking about suicide. These clues should be taken seriously.

Some of the clues are: 

*Statements about feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless

*Behavior or statements that indicate good-byes

*Isolates himself or herself, especially from loved ones and activities he/she used to enjoy

*Engages in risky behaviors like driving too fast or using alcohol/drugs

*Drastically increases alcohol or drug use