What are the 7 main mental disorders?

The seven main mental disorders include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What is the most common mental health issue in students?

Anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety, are the most common mental health issues among students due to academic pressure and social stress.

What mental health problems are established by age 14?

By age 14, common mental health problems such as anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and early signs of eating disorders or self-harm may begin to manifest.

At what age do mental health issues start?

Mental health issues can start as early as childhood, but around 50% of all mental disorders begin before the age of 14, often worsening if left untreated.

The Top Common Teenage Mental Health Issues!(From Anxiety To Depression)

Rishit raj | Mar 28, 2025, 21:00 IST

( Image credit : Freepik )

Teenagers today face immense pressure from academics, social expectations, and the digital world, leading to an alarming rise in mental health struggles. From anxiety and depression to self-harm and eating disorders, these issues are more than just "teenage phases"—they are real, serious, and often overlooked. This article dives into the most common teenage mental health issues, their warning signs, and why timely intervention is crucial. By understanding these challenges and offering the right support, parents, educators, and society can play a pivotal role in safeguarding teen mental well-being.

Teenage years are a time of immense growth, self-discovery, and change. However, amidst the excitement of adolescence, many teens struggle with mental health challenges that can significantly impact their well-being. Unfortunately, these issues are often misunderstood or overlooked by parents, teachers, and society at large. Understanding common teenage mental health problems is crucial for offering the right support and ensuring that these struggles are not ignored. In this article, we explore some of the most common mental health issues affecting teenagers and why awareness and intervention are essential.

1. Anxiety Disorders: The Silent Struggle

close-up-sad-boy-portrait

( Image credit : Freepik )

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health issues among teenagers. Academic pressures, social expectations, and the uncertainty of the future often lead to overwhelming stress.
Common types of anxiety disorders in teens include:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive worry about daily activities and future uncertainties.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations, leading to avoidance behaviors.
Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath.

Warning Signs: Constant worry, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, sleep disturbances, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches.

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Untreated anxiety can lead to academic decline, social withdrawal, and an increased risk of substance abuse.

2. Depression: More Than Just Sadness

little-boy-outdoors-upset-holding-his-toy

( Image credit : Freepik )

Teen depression is often mistaken for typical mood swings, but it is far more serious. It affects how a teen thinks, feels, and behaves, often leading to withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.
Signs of Depression in Teens:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in hobbies and social interactions
Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Fatigue and lack of motivation
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Depression can severely impact a teen’s academic performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. If left untreated, it increases the risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation.

3. Eating Disorders: A Dangerous Obsession

view-young-child-suffering

( Image credit : Freepik )

Teenagers, especially in today’s social media-driven world, often feel immense pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards, leading to unhealthy relationships with food.
Common Eating Disorders Among Teens:

Anorexia Nervosa: Extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image.
Bulimia Nervosa: Episodes of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use).
Binge Eating Disorder: Frequent consumption of large quantities of food in a short time, often leading to guilt and shame.

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Eating disorders can cause severe physical health complications, including malnutrition, heart problems, and even death.

4. Self-Harm: A Cry for Help

sad-boy-portrait

( Image credit : Freepik )

Many teens resort to self-harm as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions. Cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury provide temporary relief but do not address the root cause of distress.

Signs of Self-Harm:

Unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns
Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather
Isolating from friends and family
Keeping sharp objects in personal spaces

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Self-harm is often a sign of deeper emotional pain, and without intervention, it can escalate to suicidal behavior.

5. Substance Abuse: Seeking Escape

ill-little-boy-green-t-shirt-holding-ampoule-syringe

( Image credit : Freepik )

Teenagers facing mental health struggles may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to escape their emotions. Peer pressure, curiosity, and stress contribute to substance abuse issues.
Signs of Substance Abuse:

Sudden changes in behavior or mood
Declining academic performance
Loss of interest in hobbies
Secretive or suspicious behavior
Physical signs like bloodshot eyes or unexplained weight loss

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Substance abuse can lead to addiction, legal trouble, and long-term mental and physical health problems.

6. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): More Than Just Hyperactivity

mid-shot-student-concentrating

( Image credit : Freepik )

ADHD affects a teen’s ability to focus, organize, and control impulses. While it is commonly diagnosed in childhood, symptoms often persist into adolescence and adulthood.
Symptoms of ADHD:

Difficulty concentrating and staying organized
Impulsive decision-making
Hyperactivity or restlessness
Trouble completing tasks or following instructions

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Untreated ADHD can impact academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem.

7. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): The Lingering Impact of Trauma

non-explicit-image-child-abuse

( Image credit : Freepik )

Teens who have experienced abuse, accidents, or other traumatic events may develop PTSD, which affects their emotional and mental well-being.
Symptoms of PTSD:

Nightmares or flashbacks of the traumatic event
Avoidance of people or places that trigger memories
Heightened anxiety and emotional numbness
Difficulty trusting others

Why It Shouldn’t Be Ignored: PTSD can severely impact a teen’s daily life and increase the risk of depression and anxiety if not addressed.

The Role of Parents, Teachers, and Society

front-view-beautiful-family-chatting

( Image credit : Freepik )

Recognizing the signs of mental health issues in teenagers is the first step, but action must follow. Parents, educators, and the community play a crucial role in providing the support teens need.
How to Support a Teen Struggling with Mental Health Issues:

Open Communication: Create a safe space where teens feel comfortable discussing their emotions without fear of judgment.
Educate Yourself: Learn about mental health to recognize warning signs early.
Seek Professional Help: Therapy, counseling, and medical support are crucial in managing mental health conditions.
Encourage Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Promote activities like exercise, journaling, art, and mindfulness to help teens process emotions healthily.
Reduce Stigma: Mental health struggles should be treated with the same seriousness as physical illnesses. Encourage open conversations to eliminate shame and fear.

Every Teen Deserves Support

parents-brushing-daughter-hair

( Image credit : Freepik )

Mental health issues among teenagers are real, prevalent, and serious. Ignoring them or brushing them off as "just a phase" can have devastating consequences. Early intervention, understanding, and support can make all the difference in a teen’s life. By fostering a compassionate and informed environment, we can help teenagers navigate these challenges and ensure they receive the care they deserve.
If you suspect a teen in your life is struggling, reach out, listen, and encourage them to seek help. Mental health matters, and every teenager deserves to be heard, understood, and supported.

Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)

What are the 7 main mental disorders?
The seven main mental disorders include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What is the most common mental health issue in students?
Anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety, are the most common mental health issues among students due to academic pressure and social stress.
What mental health problems are established by age 14?
By age 14, common mental health problems such as anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and early signs of eating disorders or self-harm may begin to manifest.
At what age do mental health issues start?
Mental health issues can start as early as childhood, but around 50% of all mental disorders begin before the age of 14, often worsening if left untreated.