The challenge for parents, educators, clinicians and
others who deal with teenagers is to determine
whether their exasperating behavior is just the
stuff of growing up or whether their moodiness
and lack of judgment are indicative of a larger,
perhaps pathological, problem. Many mental
disorders begin to manifest during adolescence,
including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, eating
disorders, and drug and alcohol abuse.
“The key,” says Jensen, “is to be aware of
what’s going on with your kids. Teens today are
exposed to more stress than ever before, including
drugs, alcohol, and violence. We all have to be
mindful.”