4 Reasons Your Teen May Be Acting Out
Raising teens is a feat in and of itself. Dealing with mood swings, and hormones, and curious semi-adults who are exploring the world around them and coming into their own isn’t easy.
We want to do our best to support and encourage them, teach them right from wrong, and help them navigate the world around them.
However, despite our best efforts, things may not go as planned, and your teen may be acting out in different ways. But before you choose to discipline or punish them, it might be helpful to understand the possible reasons for their behavior, including:
1. They’re struggling with their mental health
Mental health is incredibly complicated and challenging to deal with. Not everyone knows how to identify when they’re struggling with it and may lash out in different ways, including behavioral issues. Sometimes, it’s simply just the very human need to make mistakes and learn from them; other times, depression, stress, and other mental health conditions can trigger actions that are out of line.
2. They’re experiencing loss and grief
The loss of a parent, friend, home, pet, or other similar experiences can also make them behave in a certain way. They may not understand grief for what it is, resulting in aggression, fights, conflicts, and misdirected anger. It’s important that you don’t make it harder for them, but instead, give them room to process this change.
3. They could be going through something traumatic
Remember when you had your first breakup and thought you’d never love again? Or your best friend moved away, and you felt like the loneliest person on earth? Do you remember what it feels like to be a teenager and deal with all these big transitions and transformations to your life, body, and mind? Don’t downplay their trauma and try to empathize with them. They might be acting out because they need more attention or someone who understands and supports them, not because they’re just moody teens. Trauma looks different for everyone, and just because you weren’t affected by something or dealt with it differently, doesn’t mean they will too.
4. Their educational needs aren’t being met
There may be times when your teen is struggling with school beyond a regular capacity. It’s one thing to be intellectually stimulated and challenged, but it’s another when they’re made to feel stupid or inadequate and not given the help they need. Lack of educational support at schools and at home can push teens to react in aggressive, emotional ways, especially due to stress. Working with a counselor can help identify the cause for this and perhaps find ways to overcome their challenges.
You’re not alone as a parent if you’re struggling with a moody teen or noticing disruptive and erratic behavior. Whether your teen got in trouble for behavioral and disciplinary issues, or they seem to be going through a tough time, you can help them. Contact us for mental health counselling Winder, where we offer shoplifting addiction therapy, anxiety and depression therapy, substance abuse program Winder, and other mental health services. We’re here to support you and your family.
