The teen years can be a battleground for many families. Staying close to your teen can help you win the war.

Being a teen and being a parent have never been more complicated. Along with the usual risks and temptations, today’s families face an uncertain economy and job market. On top of that, add the ever-expanding opportunities for adolescent distraction and mischief via social networking sites, text messages, YouTube, and Twitter.

“Even though the challenges are different for this generation of parents, the solutions to guiding young people through these difficult years remain very much the same—staying close, continuing to listen, and seeking help when a problem arises,” says Michael Peck, Ph.D., a psychologist in private practice in Los Angeles.

Answers to the following questions can help you recognize a problem and get help for your teen if needed.

How many American children have mental health problems?

A: In any given year, 10 percent of U.S. children and adolescents suffer serious mental disorders that cause significant problems in how they function at home and in school. Even so, only 20 percent of children with mental disorders are diagnosed and treated appropriately. Untreated mental disorders can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, and suicide.

What causes teens’ mental health problems?

A: Similar to adults, mental health problems in teens are caused by biology and environment. Biological factors include imbalances in brain chemistry and inherited risks for certain conditions, such as depression. Environmental factors include substance abuse and being the victim of rape, physical abuse, or violence.

“Parents also need to know that no matter how well they raise their kids, teens will still make mistakes because their judgment doesn’t develop until the mid-20s,” Peck says. “The changes of puberty increase the risk for all mental problems during adolescence.”

What warning signs should I be aware of?

A: A teen with a mental disorder may have a variety of symptoms, including:

• Chronic sadness or hopelessness
• Persistent nightmares
• Declining interest in and performance in school
• Alcohol or drug use
• Loss of interest in things he or she once enjoyed
• An unbalanced relationship with food

What can I do to help my teenager?

A: There’s no substitute for spending time with your teen. Staying close to your teen by keeping the lines of communication open is one of the most important things a parent can do.

When they hit 12, 13, or 14— just when they need help the most— many adolescents start to withdraw from their moms and dads. “Knowing this can help parents to continually make contact with their teens,” Peck explains.

What should I do if there is a problem?

A: If you suspect there is a problem, ask your teen what is bothering him or her.

“Don’t ignore warning signs in the hope that the problem will go away,” Peck advises. “Act on them early by getting your child to a mental health professional—his or her future depends on it.”

Barbara Floria spoke with Michael Peck, Ph.D., a psychologist in private practice in Los Angeles. For more information, visit the American Psychological Association at www.apahelpcenter.org.

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