Teens and young adults have developing brains. Their mental health is already taxed from stress, social media, and peer pressure. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic adds another layer of frustration and fear. As parents, you may see the need to get help for teen anxiety, social isolation, and other mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder. At Venture Academy, we provide the tools to allow you to do just that.
What Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Changed?
Perhaps one of the biggest negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for teens is social isolation. When older teens and young adults are coming into maturity, they are working to develop social skills, establish who they are, and determine what’s essential to them. They are also working to take those first steps out into the world on their own. The pandemic shut down that opportunity, limiting their growth. Most parents have had to make hard decisions about meeting their teen’s social needs while also reducing the risk of COVID-19.
How Do You Know When You Need Help for Teen Anxiety and Mental Health?
As a parent, look at what’s changed with your teen. To determine if professional help and support are necessary, consider the changes and trends you’re seeing. Some signs that a teen may need help include:
- Total social isolation, giving up on trying to have friends, no longer embracing activities they do have access to
- Outward, negative behaviour, including intense aggression and outbursts
- The onset of significant mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Anxiety that’s uncontrollable and leaves them fearful of their life and healthy
- Turning to drug or alcohol use, engaging in other forms of reckless behaviour
You know your son or daughter, but what you may not realize is just how much the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted them. Teens are resourceful and capable of hiding their thoughts and needs. It’s not always easy, then, to spot these signs or any sign of turmoil.
For teens who have been battling behaviour problems, look for signs of increasing symptoms or more violent behaviour. This may include lying, engaging in sexual interactions, driving under the influence, or simply showing a lack of respect. When their health or their safety is on the line, it’s time to reach out for help from a professional organization.
What Can Our Team Do for Your Teen?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, parents need to know there is help available. Our professionals work to educate you on the options for providing better support to your son or daughter during this difficult time. In addition, our team makes recommendations for the type and level of care they need to begin to thrive again.
It’s important to recognize a crisis. If you believe your teen is engaging in behaviour that could put them at risk for mental health breakdowns, substance use disorders, or other reckless acts, turn to our team for immediate help. We offer a comprehensive program designed to provide a full assessment and intervention at the start. This allows us to create a treatment plan that can help your son or daughter to gain security and sobriety again. Learn more about our programs, including:
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Behavioural treatment
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Electronic addiction services
Ready to Find Help and Hope? Call Venture Academy Today
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many things for today’s teens. Social isolation and underdiagnosed conditions like anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder are key among those changes. Whether you need help for teen anxiety or someone to tell you how to support your child through mental health treatment, Venture Academy is available. To learn how we can help, call us at 866.762.2211 or connect with us online.
