Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders often begin in the teenage years. Early support can make a big difference, and research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that several treatments can help.
Therapies That Work
One of the most effective treatments is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It helps teens recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors, especially helpful for anxiety and depression. A more specific version, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is especially useful for treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is used when teens have intense emotions, thoughts of suicide, or are harming themselves. DBT teaches ways to handle emotions and stressful situations.
Family-Based Therapy helps treat eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia by involving the whole family in supporting recovery.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) works well for depression by helping teens improve their relationships with others.
Therapy can now happen in different ways, including online. Internet-based CBT has been effective in treating depression and anxiety from home. Group therapy is another helpful option, especially for social anxiety, as it gives teens a chance to practice social skills in a supportive setting. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) provide a group therapy setting where teens benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy, effective coping strategies, and family therapy.
Medication Options
In some cases, therapy is combined with medication. Antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs help balance brain chemicals that affect mood and anxiety. For severe anxiety, anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines and buspirone may be used. Beta-blockers can also help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, like a racing heart.
Medication can be important for teens with OCD too, often along with therapy for best results. These medications should always be used under a doctor’s care, especially in young people.
Support in Schools
Schools are key places to support teen mental health. Programs that include group therapy or CBT have shown success in lowering symptoms of depression and anxiety. Suicide prevention programs at school help teens understand the warning signs and where to go for help.
Promoting general mental well-being—not just focusing on illness—can also make a positive impact. When schools include activities that support emotional health, students often feel better overall.
The Importance of Early Help
Most mental health conditions start before age 25, so getting help early is critical. Services made just for young people, which are friendly and judgment-free, make it easier for teens to reach out for help.
Another key part of improving teen mental health is reducing stigma. Programs that teach teens that mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of can encourage more of them to seek support.
New Dimensions Can Help!
If you know a teenager or young adult who is struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues, New Dimensions can help. New Dimensions offers specialized programs for adolescents and young adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, substance abuse issues, OCD, PTSD, and other mental health issues. We have programs conveniently located in The Woodlands, Katy, and the Clear Lake areas of Houston. To learn more about our Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs, contact us at 800-685-9796 or go to our website www.nddtreatment.com.
References:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)