Does My Teen Need Therapy?
Adolescence is a time of change. Mood swings, shifting friendships, and growing independence are all part of the process. But how do you know when those changes are more than just “normal teenage behavior”? As a parent or caregiver, it can be difficult to tell when your teen is struggling and even harder to know how to help.
At Tripeak Behavioral Health in Albuquerque, we work with teens and families to navigate the challenges of adolescence with compassion, structure, and support. If you’re wondering whether your teen might benefit from therapy, here are some signs to pay attention to.
1. Persistent Changes in Mood or Behavior
Everyone has bad days, but if your teen seems consistently irritable, withdrawn, angry, or sad, it may signal something deeper. Pay attention to:
Sudden mood swings
Increased isolation or avoidance
Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
2. Academic or School Struggles
Mental health can affect concentration, motivation, and performance. Signs to watch for:
Declining grades or missed assignments
School avoidance or frequent requests to stay home
Reports from teachers about behavioral concerns or disengagement
3. Changes in Sleep or Appetite
The body and brain are closely linked. Teens experiencing emotional distress may:
Sleep too much or struggle with insomnia
Eat significantly more or less than usual
Experience frequent headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained physical symptoms
4. Difficulty with Peer Relationships
Friendships become increasingly important during adolescence. Red flags include:
Social withdrawal or loss of close friendships
Bullying (as victim or perpetrator)
Excessive conflict with peers or family members
5. Risky Behaviors or Coping Mechanisms
Sometimes, teens act out as a way of coping with inner turmoil. Watch for:
Substance use or sneaking alcohol/drugs
Self-harm or talk of self-injury
Impulsive or dangerous behavior
6. Expressions of Hopelessness or Low Self-Esteem
Teens might not always say, “I’m depressed,” but they might say:
“Nothing matters.”
“I’m not good at anything.”
“I don’t care anymore.”
“I wish I wasn’t here.”
If your teen talks about feeling hopeless, worthless, or like a burden, it’s important to take it seriously.
What Therapy Offers Teens
Therapy isn’t just for crises. It’s a space for teens to:
Develop coping tools
Build emotional insight and resilience
Explore identity, values, and self-worth
Improve communication and relationships
Therapy also helps caregivers learn how to support their teen more effectively while honoring their growing autonomy.
What Therapy Offers Teens
Therapy isn’t just for crises. It’s a space for teens to:
Develop coping tools
Build emotional insight and resilience
Explore identity, values, and self-worth
Improve communication and relationships
Therapy also helps caregivers learn how to support their teen more effectively while honoring their growing autonomy.
How to Start the Conversation
If you think your teen may benefit from therapy:
Approach them with curiosity, not judgment
Let them know you care and have noticed some changes
Normalize therapy as a resource, not a punishment
You might say: “I’ve noticed you’ve been more quiet and down lately. I wonder if it might help to talk to someone outside the family. I can help you find the right person.”
We’re Here to Help
At Tripeak Behavioral Health in Albuquerque, we offer therapy for teens ages 14 and up, both in person in Albuquerque and via telehealth throughout New Mexico. We create a space where teens can feel heard, understood, and supported, while partnering with parents as needed to foster growth at home.
Reach out to Tripeak Behavioral Health in Albuquerque today to learn more or schedule a first appointment.