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Teen Mental Health Treatment in Arizona

Author Archives: Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC

  • Teen boy with PTSD appearing tense at home and school, showing how hypervigilance keeps him alert to perceived threats.

    Hypervigilance in Teen Boys: What It Looks Like at Home and School

    Traumatized teenagers may end up developing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. One of the signs of teen PTSD is hypervigilance. This causes a teenager’s brain to be stuck in threat mode. A hypervigilant teenager constantly scans for danger even where there is none. This state can be confusing for parents, but it helps to understand that …

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  • Teen boy with PTSD sits alone at home, reflecting the panic, dissociation, and distress that can make trauma feel overwhelming.

    When a Teen Boy’s PTSD Makes Him Feel Like He’s Going Crazy

    The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that roughly 5% of teenagers in the US have met the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder. Teen PTSD symptoms may get so intense that teenagers feel like they are going crazy. Their trauma can manifest as emotional numbness, vivid flashbacks, or dissociation. Your son may feel like he …

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  • Parents support a traumatized teen boy as outpatient therapy falls short, signaling the need for more intensive care.

    When Outpatient Therapy Isn’t Enough for a Traumatized Teen Boy

    Outpatient therapy is one of the most common types of treatment programs for teen mental health issues. However, it may not be enough in some instances. Most teenagers with mental health disorders, like teen depression or teen PTSD, require more intensive treatment approaches to recover fully. It may be time to switch things up if …

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  • Teen son sits withdrawn between parents and therapist, reflecting why a teen won't talk to anyone despite family support.

    My Teen Won’t Talk to Anyone: Not Me, Not His Therapist

    A chatty teenager becoming suddenly withdrawn or isolated is a cause for concern. It becomes more alarming if the silence extends to professionals designated to help them. We understand how frustrating it can be if your son goes silent on everyone, including his therapist. However, it is important to understand that their silence is usually …

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  • Teen boy with PTSD symptoms during a trauma assessment, reflecting a parent's concern about undiagnosed PTSD and getting help.

    I Think My Son Has Undiagnosed PTSD: How Do I Get a Real Assessment?

    While mood swings and risk-taking usually mark adolescence, some behaviors often suggest something more. The National Center for PTSD estimates that 1%-6% of boys who experience traumatic events eventually have PTSD. Unfortunately, most cases remain undiagnosed. Seeing your teenager struggle without any clear reason can be agonizing. However, you should immediately get them assessed if …

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