Mental Health Issues in Preteens

Around five million children in the United States are dealing with a mental illness that interferes with their daily lives. It is hard to diagnose mental health issues in preteens. Many mental disorders are treatable with medication and therapy. Some of the mental health issues that affect preteens are depression, anxiety disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Depression

Preteens are not usually associated with depression, but more of an issue with hormonal teenagers. However, depression is becoming more common in preteens. Experts believe that depression is a result of peer pressure, not excelling in sports and academics or problems in the household. The signs of depression are missed by teachers and parents, because teenagers are naturally moody. Symptoms of depression are anxiety, intense mood swings, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness and feelings of loneliness or isolation. Behavior characteristics are impulsive behavior, weight changes, lack of energy and poor performance in school.

 Anxiety Disorders

Many preteens suffer from anxiety disorders. An anxiety disorder is having feelings of dread or fear as a response to certain incidents. Physical signs are heavy breathing, sweating and rapid heartbeat. Preteens can suffer from the same disorders as teenagers and adults. Common anxiety disorders are obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, social anxiety and phobias. These are severe mental health issues which can disrupt daily life.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, involves having the tendency to be forgetful, short attention span, impulsive behaviors, excessive talking, constant fidgeting and unable to play quietly. The cause for ADHD is not known, but it can be controlled by medication. Possible causes are chemical imbalances, heredity and brain injuries.