What Are Some Common Behavioral Health Issues that Require Treatment?
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
We generally only cite government and peer-reviewed studies
Scientific claims and data are backed by qualified sources
Content is updated to ensure we are citing the most up-to-date data and information
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Watching your teen struggle with behavioral health issues can be confusing and overwhelming. Is it just a phase, or is something more serious going on? As parents, you want to support your child but may not always know where to start. At Nexus Teen Academy, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges. This article explores common behavioral health disorders in teens, their impact, and the treatment options available.
If you need resources and support for your teen, contact us immediately. With the right knowledge and support, you can play a crucial role in your teen’s journey toward emotional well-being.
Common Behavioral Health Issues That Require Treatment
Overcoming Resistance to Creative Expression
Behavioral health disorders refer to behaviors that disrupt a teenager’s functioning. Teens with behavioral disorders often struggle to regulate their emotions or control their behaviors. This can lead to impulsive and dangerous behaviors that undermine their overall well-being.
Some of the common behavioral health disorders include mood disorders, teen anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
Mood Disorders
Mood disorders refer to conditions that affect a teenager’s emotional well-being and can lead to sadness or extreme mood swings. Teens with these disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder, may also withdraw from social interaction or hobbies they once enjoyed.
Depression
Depression is a type of mood disorder characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low energy. Factors such as gene predisposition, your teenager’s biological composition, or their environment can influence depression. Some of the signs of teen depression include:
Changes in sleep and appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of motivation.
Withdrawal from social interaction or hobbies
Feelings of hopelessness
Suicide ideation
Talking about death and giving away possession
Treatment options for teen depression include therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy. Therapy can be complemented with medication for teenagers experiencing severe symptoms.
Bipolar Disorders
Teenagers with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings. The mood swings often alternate between depressive episodes and manic phases. During mania, your teen may experience high energy, impulsivity, and a reduced need for sleep. Depressive episodes can be characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and intense mood swings. This can disrupt daily life, negatively impacting your teenager’s overall well-being. Bipolar disorder treatment typically includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy to manage symptoms effectively.
Bipolar Disorder
Teenagers with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings. The mood swings often alternate between depressive episodes and manic phases. During mania, your teen may experience high energy, impulsivity, and a reduced need for sleep. Depressive episodes can be characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and intense mood swings. This can disrupt daily life, negatively impacting your teenager’s overall well-being. Bipolar disorder treatment typically includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy to manage symptoms effectively.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, and stress that interfere with daily life. Some of the common types of teen anxiety disorders include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Teens
GAD is characterized by persistent worry about everyday situations, even when there is no immediate threat. Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Therapy and medications are necessary to treat and manage symptoms.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorders are characterized by sudden, unexpected panic attacks. Teens with panic disorders can also experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom. These episodes can be compromising and often lead to avoidance behaviors. Treatment options include therapy, breathing techniques, and medication to manage panic symptoms.
Social Anxiety Disorder
This is an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. Teens with SAD can find daily interactions extremely overwhelming. Treatment often involves exposure therapy, social skills training, and medications.
Trauma-Related Disorders in Teens
Teen trauma-related disorders develop after exposure to distressing events. Teenagers with this condition often struggle to cope with intense stress, which can affect their emotional and psychological health.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Teens
PTSD is caused by being exposed to traumatic conditions such as abuse or accidents. Teenagers with PTSD may experience symptoms such as nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. To manage this condition, medication and therapy are advised and can be provided at teen residential treatment centers. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy can help teenagers identify and manage their triggers effectively. Additionally, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and medication can help regulate mood and anxiety.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) in Teens
ASD is similar to PTSD but occurs in the immediate aftermath of trauma. Symptoms may last from a few days to a month. Signs of ASD include dissociation, intrusive thoughts, and heightened anxiety. Early intervention with therapy can prevent the disorder from developing into PTSD.
Disruptive Behavior Disorders in Teens
Disruptive behavior disorders refer to a negative pattern of behaviors that disrupt teenagers’ overall well-being. Teenagers with disruptive behaviors are often aggressive, which could lead to conflicts with authority figures or peers. The common types of disruptive behaviors include oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
ODD is marked by frequent defiance, irritability, and hostility toward parents or other authority figures. Defiant teens often refuse to follow the rules, argue excessively, and deliberately annoy others.
Conduct Disorder
This involves more severe behavioral problems. Teens with conduct disorder can have behaviors such as aggression, lying, stealing, and destruction of property. Your teen may show a lack of empathy and engage in criminal activities. If you notice signs of conduct disorders in your teens, please seek professional help. Early intervention with therapy, social skills training, and, in some cases, medication can help prevent escalation.
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are conditions that affect teenagers’ ability to function without drugs. Most teens with SUDS have behavioral health issues, as most of them use it as a maladaptive coping mechanism. If your teen has depression or anxiety, they are likely to self-medicate using alcohol.
Some of the commonly abused substances include alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal drugs such as cocaine. If you suspect your teenager has an addiction, some of the signs to look out for include withdrawal symptoms and continued use despite negative consequences.
To manage SUDS, therapy and medication are recommended. Your teen may be enrolled in detoxification or medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol addiction. Additionally, support groups like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous can help provide the support teens need during recovery.
Treatment Options for Behavioral Health Issues
Teen behavioral issues can be treated using various ways, including therapy and medication. Depending on the severity of your teenager’s symptoms, it is wise to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which options suit them best. Some of the popular options include counseling, medication, and inpatient and outpatient approaches.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy and counseling are the most popular approaches used in treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. There are several therapeutic options that, when tailored to your teenagers’ needs, can promote overall well-being. Some of these therapies include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is widely used to help teenagers recognize and modify negative thought patterns. If your teen is suffering from anxiety, teen CBT helps them identify and manage those triggers that contribute to mental health struggles. It trains teens to challenge their irrational beliefs and coping skills with healthier ones.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
DBT is highly effective for teens struggling with emotional dysregulation. It combines mindfulness techniques with skills training to help teenagers regulate their emotions. If your teenager has borderline personality disorder, self-harming behaviors, or intense mood swings, DBT can be highly effective.
Family Therapy
Family involvement is highly effective in promoting treatment outcomes. Involving loved ones in your teen’s treatment process is the number one way to create a robust support system. During family therapy sessions, therapists help the family to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a supportive home environment. Such an environment can be vital for teens dealing with mental health and substance abuse disorders.
Medication Management
If your teenager experiences intense symptoms like physical pain, medication may be encouraged. Depending on your teen’s diagnosis, medications can help stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms. Some of the common medications used include antidepressants (such as SSRIs and SNRIs) and mood stabilizers. If your teen has psychotic symptoms, antipsychotics and anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed, too. However, before getting your teenagers on medication, it is important to consult with healthcare providers. They can help monitor medication effectiveness and adjust dosages as needed.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment
Choosing between inpatient vs outpatient treatment depends on the severity of your teen’s condition. Inpatient care is recommended for teens experiencing severe symptoms or with recurring mental health disorders. The 24/7 supervision is beneficial for teenagers who have critical conditions like suicidal ideation. It provides structured care, immediate medical attention, and a safe environment for stabilization.
On the other hand, outpatient treatment allows teens to receive treatment outside their normal routine. Depending on your teen’s needs, you can choose either outpatient programs or intensive outpatient programs. This approach is flexible since teenagers can receive treatment while still engaging in their hobbies and studies.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Immediately after you notice warning signs in your teenager, it is wise to get them professional help. Early intervention has several benefits that may benefit your teenager’s overall well-being. Many mental health disorders tend to get worse when left untreated. Teenagers suffering from depression are often lonely, isolated, and withdrawn from friends and family. As symptoms worsen, they may start having suicidal thoughts. This can lead to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Ultimately, your teen may end up with a co-occurring disorder.
To prevent this from happening, you need to get your teen help after the first sign of distress. This can help reduce symptoms from worsening and improve treatment outcomes. Additionally, early intervention exposes teenagers to healthy coping mechanisms. This makes it easier for them to identify and manage their triggers effectively.
How to Encourage Someone to Seek Treatment
Encouraging your teenager to seek help starts with breaking the stigma around behavioral health. Many teens hesitate to get treatment due to fear of judgment or misconceptions about therapy and medication. To make the process simpler, have open and compassionate conversations around mental health care. Educating their peers and the community about mental health can make them more accepting and understanding of teenagers with mental health needs.
Second, it is important to be your teen’s support system. Most teenagers with mental health needs may feel estranged from others. As their parents, offer them the emotional support they need. Create a supportive environment that encourages teenagers to open up. This can help promote overall well-being.
Teen Behavioral Health Treatment at Nexus Teen Academy
At Nexus Teen Academy, we encourage parents to seek professional treatment for their teens at the earliest signs of distress. Not only does it help teenagers get better, but it also creates a supportive environment that is necessary for healing.
We have tailored the treatment approach at our teen mental health treatment program to ensure each teenager enrolled is treated based on their specific needs. Our academy has certified mental health professionals who are dedicated to promoting teen well-being. Apart from our qualified team, we complement our traditional therapy methods with mindfulness techniques to promote holistic recovery.
If you need help and resources around teen health, do not hesitate to reach out. Let us guide your teenager through treatment and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can behavioral health issues go away on their own?
While some mild behavioral health issues may improve over time, most require professional intervention for lasting recovery. Early treatment increases the chances of successful management and prevents worsening symptoms.
Are inpatient treatment programs effective for behavioral health issues?
Inpatient treatment programs provide intensive care. This is highly effective for severe behavioral health issues.
Can behavioral health conditions be managed without medication?
Many behavioral health conditions can be managed without medication. Options like therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems can help. However, some cases may require medication for optimal symptom control and long-term stability.
How long does behavioral health treatment usually take?
The length of behavioral health treatment varies depending on the condition and the teenager's needs. It can range from a few weeks to several months, with some requiring ongoing management.
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC and nexus_admin
What Are Some Common Behavioral Health Issues that Require Treatment?
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
Published By Nexus Teen Academy
Nexus Teen Academy
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Published On June 21, 2025
Table of Contents
Watching your teen struggle with behavioral health issues can be confusing and overwhelming. Is it just a phase, or is something more serious going on? As parents, you want to support your child but may not always know where to start. At Nexus Teen Academy, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges. This article explores common behavioral health disorders in teens, their impact, and the treatment options available.
If you need resources and support for your teen, contact us immediately. With the right knowledge and support, you can play a crucial role in your teen’s journey toward emotional well-being.
Common Behavioral Health Issues That Require Treatment
Overcoming Resistance to Creative Expression
Behavioral health disorders refer to behaviors that disrupt a teenager’s functioning. Teens with behavioral disorders often struggle to regulate their emotions or control their behaviors. This can lead to impulsive and dangerous behaviors that undermine their overall well-being.
Some of the common behavioral health disorders include mood disorders, teen anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
Mood Disorders
Mood disorders refer to conditions that affect a teenager’s emotional well-being and can lead to sadness or extreme mood swings. Teens with these disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder, may also withdraw from social interaction or hobbies they once enjoyed.
Depression
Depression is a type of mood disorder characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low energy. Factors such as gene predisposition, your teenager’s biological composition, or their environment can influence depression. Some of the signs of teen depression include:
Treatment options for teen depression include therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy. Therapy can be complemented with medication for teenagers experiencing severe symptoms.
Bipolar Disorders
Teenagers with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings. The mood swings often alternate between depressive episodes and manic phases. During mania, your teen may experience high energy, impulsivity, and a reduced need for sleep. Depressive episodes can be characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and intense mood swings. This can disrupt daily life, negatively impacting your teenager’s overall well-being. Bipolar disorder treatment typically includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy to manage symptoms effectively.
Bipolar Disorder
Teenagers with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood swings. The mood swings often alternate between depressive episodes and manic phases. During mania, your teen may experience high energy, impulsivity, and a reduced need for sleep. Depressive episodes can be characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and intense mood swings. This can disrupt daily life, negatively impacting your teenager’s overall well-being. Bipolar disorder treatment typically includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy to manage symptoms effectively.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, and stress that interfere with daily life. Some of the common types of teen anxiety disorders include:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Teens
GAD is characterized by persistent worry about everyday situations, even when there is no immediate threat. Symptoms include restlessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Therapy and medications are necessary to treat and manage symptoms.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorders are characterized by sudden, unexpected panic attacks. Teens with panic disorders can also experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom. These episodes can be compromising and often lead to avoidance behaviors. Treatment options include therapy, breathing techniques, and medication to manage panic symptoms.
Social Anxiety Disorder
This is an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. Teens with SAD can find daily interactions extremely overwhelming. Treatment often involves exposure therapy, social skills training, and medications.
Trauma-Related Disorders in Teens
Teen trauma-related disorders develop after exposure to distressing events. Teenagers with this condition often struggle to cope with intense stress, which can affect their emotional and psychological health.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Teens
PTSD is caused by being exposed to traumatic conditions such as abuse or accidents. Teenagers with PTSD may experience symptoms such as nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. To manage this condition, medication and therapy are advised and can be provided at teen residential treatment centers. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy can help teenagers identify and manage their triggers effectively. Additionally, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and medication can help regulate mood and anxiety.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) in Teens
ASD is similar to PTSD but occurs in the immediate aftermath of trauma. Symptoms may last from a few days to a month. Signs of ASD include dissociation, intrusive thoughts, and heightened anxiety. Early intervention with therapy can prevent the disorder from developing into PTSD.
Disruptive Behavior Disorders in Teens
Disruptive behavior disorders refer to a negative pattern of behaviors that disrupt teenagers’ overall well-being. Teenagers with disruptive behaviors are often aggressive, which could lead to conflicts with authority figures or peers. The common types of disruptive behaviors include oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
ODD is marked by frequent defiance, irritability, and hostility toward parents or other authority figures. Defiant teens often refuse to follow the rules, argue excessively, and deliberately annoy others.
Conduct Disorder
This involves more severe behavioral problems. Teens with conduct disorder can have behaviors such as aggression, lying, stealing, and destruction of property. Your teen may show a lack of empathy and engage in criminal activities. If you notice signs of conduct disorders in your teens, please seek professional help. Early intervention with therapy, social skills training, and, in some cases, medication can help prevent escalation.
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are conditions that affect teenagers’ ability to function without drugs. Most teens with SUDS have behavioral health issues, as most of them use it as a maladaptive coping mechanism. If your teen has depression or anxiety, they are likely to self-medicate using alcohol.
Some of the commonly abused substances include alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal drugs such as cocaine. If you suspect your teenager has an addiction, some of the signs to look out for include withdrawal symptoms and continued use despite negative consequences.
To manage SUDS, therapy and medication are recommended. Your teen may be enrolled in detoxification or medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol addiction. Additionally, support groups like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous can help provide the support teens need during recovery.
Treatment Options for Behavioral Health Issues
Teen behavioral issues can be treated using various ways, including therapy and medication. Depending on the severity of your teenager’s symptoms, it is wise to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which options suit them best. Some of the popular options include counseling, medication, and inpatient and outpatient approaches.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy and counseling are the most popular approaches used in treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. There are several therapeutic options that, when tailored to your teenagers’ needs, can promote overall well-being. Some of these therapies include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is widely used to help teenagers recognize and modify negative thought patterns. If your teen is suffering from anxiety, teen CBT helps them identify and manage those triggers that contribute to mental health struggles. It trains teens to challenge their irrational beliefs and coping skills with healthier ones.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
DBT is highly effective for teens struggling with emotional dysregulation. It combines mindfulness techniques with skills training to help teenagers regulate their emotions. If your teenager has borderline personality disorder, self-harming behaviors, or intense mood swings, DBT can be highly effective.
Family Therapy
Family involvement is highly effective in promoting treatment outcomes. Involving loved ones in your teen’s treatment process is the number one way to create a robust support system. During family therapy sessions, therapists help the family to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a supportive home environment. Such an environment can be vital for teens dealing with mental health and substance abuse disorders.
Medication Management
If your teenager experiences intense symptoms like physical pain, medication may be encouraged. Depending on your teen’s diagnosis, medications can help stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms. Some of the common medications used include antidepressants (such as SSRIs and SNRIs) and mood stabilizers. If your teen has psychotic symptoms, antipsychotics and anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed, too. However, before getting your teenagers on medication, it is important to consult with healthcare providers. They can help monitor medication effectiveness and adjust dosages as needed.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment
Choosing between inpatient vs outpatient treatment depends on the severity of your teen’s condition. Inpatient care is recommended for teens experiencing severe symptoms or with recurring mental health disorders. The 24/7 supervision is beneficial for teenagers who have critical conditions like suicidal ideation. It provides structured care, immediate medical attention, and a safe environment for stabilization.
On the other hand, outpatient treatment allows teens to receive treatment outside their normal routine. Depending on your teen’s needs, you can choose either outpatient programs or intensive outpatient programs. This approach is flexible since teenagers can receive treatment while still engaging in their hobbies and studies.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Immediately after you notice warning signs in your teenager, it is wise to get them professional help. Early intervention has several benefits that may benefit your teenager’s overall well-being. Many mental health disorders tend to get worse when left untreated. Teenagers suffering from depression are often lonely, isolated, and withdrawn from friends and family. As symptoms worsen, they may start having suicidal thoughts. This can lead to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Ultimately, your teen may end up with a co-occurring disorder.
To prevent this from happening, you need to get your teen help after the first sign of distress. This can help reduce symptoms from worsening and improve treatment outcomes. Additionally, early intervention exposes teenagers to healthy coping mechanisms. This makes it easier for them to identify and manage their triggers effectively.
How to Encourage Someone to Seek Treatment
Encouraging your teenager to seek help starts with breaking the stigma around behavioral health. Many teens hesitate to get treatment due to fear of judgment or misconceptions about therapy and medication. To make the process simpler, have open and compassionate conversations around mental health care. Educating their peers and the community about mental health can make them more accepting and understanding of teenagers with mental health needs.
Second, it is important to be your teen’s support system. Most teenagers with mental health needs may feel estranged from others. As their parents, offer them the emotional support they need. Create a supportive environment that encourages teenagers to open up. This can help promote overall well-being.
Teen Behavioral Health Treatment at Nexus Teen Academy
At Nexus Teen Academy, we encourage parents to seek professional treatment for their teens at the earliest signs of distress. Not only does it help teenagers get better, but it also creates a supportive environment that is necessary for healing.
We have tailored the treatment approach at our teen mental health treatment program to ensure each teenager enrolled is treated based on their specific needs. Our academy has certified mental health professionals who are dedicated to promoting teen well-being. Apart from our qualified team, we complement our traditional therapy methods with mindfulness techniques to promote holistic recovery.
If you need help and resources around teen health, do not hesitate to reach out. Let us guide your teenager through treatment and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While some mild behavioral health issues may improve over time, most require professional intervention for lasting recovery. Early treatment increases the chances of successful management and prevents worsening symptoms.
Inpatient treatment programs provide intensive care. This is highly effective for severe behavioral health issues.
Many behavioral health conditions can be managed without medication. Options like therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems can help. However, some cases may require medication for optimal symptom control and long-term stability.
The length of behavioral health treatment varies depending on the condition and the teenager's needs. It can range from a few weeks to several months, with some requiring ongoing management.