Teen mental health
Is my teen struggling?
Adolescence is already intense. When low mood, anxiety, or withdrawal last for weeks, it's worth paying attention. Many parents wonder whether what they're seeing is 'just hormones' or something more.
What it can feel like
Teens don't always say 'I'm struggling.' Sometimes it shows up as anger, silence, falling grades, or a retreat into their room. The shift from 'normal teen moodiness' to something concerning is usually about duration, intensity, and how much it interferes with daily life.
If you're a parent reading this because something feels off, trust that instinct. Getting information is a good next step — and a screener can help you decide whether professional support makes sense.
Common signs
- ·Persistent low mood or irritability
- ·Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy
- ·Big changes in sleep or appetite
- ·Drop in academic performance or motivation
- ·Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
- ·Loss of interest in hobbies or future plans
- ·Risky or self-destructive behavior
- ·Talking about feeling worthless or hopeless
Start with a free self-check
The screeners below are the same ones used in clinics worldwide. They're free, private, and take a few minutes. Your results appear on screen immediately.
Teen mental health · Primary screener
Teen Depression Self-Test
The PHQ-A - depression screener adapted for adolescents (11-17). About 3 minutes.
What support for teens looks like
I work with parents and, where appropriate, with teens directly to understand what's going on beneath the surface. The goal is clarity, connection, and a plan that feels workable for the whole family.
- ●Understanding whether symptoms are typical teen stress or something more
- ●Evidence-based screeners for anxiety and depression
- ●Parent guidance and support sessions
- ●Referrals to specialists when needed
Common questions
Which self-test is right for my teen?
It depends on what you're noticing. The PHQ-A is a depression screener designed for adolescents. The SCARED measures anxiety in children and teens. The SDQ looks at broader emotional and behavioral difficulties. You can start with whichever concern is most present.
Can my teen take the test alone?
The youth-report versions are designed for teens to complete themselves. The parent-report versions ask you to reflect on what you've observed. Both can be useful.
Is a high score a diagnosis?
No. These are screening tools, not diagnoses. A higher score means it's worth speaking with a mental health professional who can do a fuller assessment.
Do you work directly with teens?
I can work with older teens directly, depending on the situation. I also offer parent-consultation sessions to help you figure out the right next step for your family.