Dealing with mental health symptoms as a teen can be challenging. Conditions like depression, anxiety and school avoidance can impact all aspects of your life. Fortunately, treatment is available. Learning about the advantages of a PHP can help you stay positive and informed on your treatment journey.

5 benefits of a teen partial hospitalization program

1. comprehensive support — Sometimes regular therapy sessions aren’t sufficient. When you need extra support, a PHP can be a great option. PHP treatments are designed to be comprehensive. Over the course of your treatment, you may benefit from services ranging from group therapy to medication management. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs, which can help ensure that you get the comprehensive support you need. The holistic approach of a PHP may offer major advantages over less intensive therapy sessions.

2. routine and structure — Dealing with mental health symptoms can make it harder to maintain a consistent routine. When focusing your energy on your mental health, you may feel like your life falls into disarray. Good habits such as going for a walk every day or even brushing your teeth can be broken by a sense of disorganization and a lack of motivation. These are common symptoms of depression and other mood-related conditions. PHPs provide structure. This can help you feel more stable and less anxious about what the future may hold. When life feels chaotic, the routine of a PHP can be essential for making steady progress.

3. skill development — With a focus on building lifelong skills, a PHP can offer lasting benefits. A PHP is a great way to build a variety of skills. You can get advice from peers in group therapy sessions, and you can work on specific strategies with your care provider. Through one-on-one sessions, you can practice coping skills that can help you thrive when you return home each night.

4. family involvement — PHP treatment often involves family therapy. With family therapy, you can get trusted family members involved in your treatment. This can help bring your safety network closer together, and it may boost your progress. Adolescents with mental health concerns often experience friction with parents and siblings. With family therapy, you can talk through your differences and find common ground. Effective family therapy can help transform family from a site of conflict into a source of support.

5. peer support — Though it can feel like you’re isolated in your mental health struggles, it may help to remember that you’re not alone. An estimated 49.5% of adolescents have had a mental health condition at some point in their lives, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. If you’re feeling lonely on your mental health journey, peer support can have a major impact. By communicating with your peers in a group therapy setting, you can hear from others who share similar experiences, which may help you feel understood and less alone.

Are partial hospitalization programs effective for improving mental health?

Overall, a PHP is a strong and versatile approach to treatment. Instead of just relieving the symptoms of your condition, a quality PHP will identify and address the core concerns underlying your symptoms. This approach can empower you to make real steps toward recovery and improvement each day. PHPs can be especially useful for people currently making the transition from inpatient to intensive outpatient care. A good program will be designed to provide you with the tools you need to get through tough times and continue toward a brighter future. The potential long-term benefits of a good PHP can make it a highly effective treatment option for your mental health.

Experience the benefits of Embrace U’s partial hospitalization program

If you’re ready to take the next step on your mental wellness journey, Embrace U is here to help. Our partial hospitalization program is designed to help adolescents aged 10 to 18 get focused, dedicated support. If a PHP isn’t right for your needs, we also offer intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment. We can help you find a course of treatment that fits your needs and improvement goals.

Contact our team today for more information about our partial hospitalization program or to schedule an initial appointment.

You’ll have to talk with your child’s doctor or a licensed clinician to get a diagnosis. Educating yourself about seasonal affective disorder and other mental health conditions can help you make sure your child gets the treatment they need.

This blog post lists 16 symptoms to look for if you suspect your child might be experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder isn’t quite the same thing as depression. It can have some of the same symptoms, but there are a few important differences. The causes, triggers and larger behavioral patterns are different for SAD. Clinicians also take slightly different treatment approaches with these patients. 

With seasonal affective disorder, a child may feel a general sense of malaise that gets worse at certain times of year. With winter pattern SAD, they’ll have symptoms that are more like depression when the days are shorter and the nights are longer. With summer pattern SAD, their symptoms may look more like anxiety or agitation. This variation is more common in warmer climates during the hottest times of the year. 

Children and teens experiencing any type of seasonal affective disorder may have the following symptoms:

1. difficulty concentrating
2. feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
3. losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
4. physical aches, pains, cramps or headaches
5. unexplained digestive problems 
6. thoughts of not wanting to live

Symptoms of winter pattern seasonal affective disorder

It’s true that there are fewer hours of daylight in most places in the Northern Hemisphere during the winter. People in colder areas may also spend more time indoors. Less exposure to sunlight and vitamin D deficiency can both contribute to winter pattern SAD. This is why treatment often involves light therapy and vitamin D supplements. Therapy and medication can also be helpful for people experiencing this condition.

Children experiencing winter pattern SAD may notice these symptoms:

7. feeling sad or down 
8. low energy or sluggishness
9. sleeping too much
10. food cravings, overeating and weight gain
11. social withdrawal

Symptoms of summer pattern seasonal affective disorder

People who live near the equator may experience symptoms of summer pattern SAD during the times of year when they get the most sunlight. It’s not as common as winter pattern SAD. Symptoms may look more like anxiety, agitation, irritability, poor appetite or trouble sleeping. In addition to therapy and medication, people experiencing summer pattern SAD may take melatonin supplements before bed to help them get more restful sleep. 

Children experiencing summer pattern SAD may notice these symptoms:

12. agitation, restlessness or anxiety
13. irritability or frustration
14. trouble sleeping (insomnia)
15. poor appetite
16. unexplained weight loss

Don’t wait for seasonal affective disorder to pass on its own

Your child’s doctor will need to observe symptoms at least two years in a row to diagnose seasonal affective disorder. You shouldn’t wait that long to start seeking treatment. There are some things you can try at home, like using a therapy light or supplements. It’s also a good idea to find a therapist your child can talk to. Even though SAD isn’t exactly depression, it can still come with a lot of emotional ups and downs. A therapist can help your child learn to “ride the wave.” Treatment shouldn’t just be about managing symptoms, though. Your child’s therapist should also help them build positive practices that help them feel better during difficult times of year. They can help your child recognize what they like best about long winter nights or long summer days and focus on those things.

Make sure your child’s doctor knows about their symptoms. Most often, some lifestyle adjustments, therapy and sometimes medication are enough to manage seasonal affective disorder. At Embrace U, we provide a higher level of treatment for adolescents aged 10 to 18 in Middle Tennessee whose symptoms are interfering with their lives. Our programs combine several evidence-based therapies with group treatments and family therapy sessions. Treatments are highly personalized so each patient we work with gets the help they need. 

Do you have questions about treatment for seasonal affective disorder? Contact our team today. Let’s talk about your child’s symptoms and the next steps to get them the help they need.

Everyone experiences depression a little differently. Your symptoms are unique, and the coping skills that help you will be different than what works for someone else. To figure out what helps you feel better, you’ll need to do some experimenting. 

This blog post lists seven healthy coping skills that can help you manage your depression symptoms.

7 healthy coping skills that may help you manage your depression symptoms

Finding your go-to coping skills is all about balancing self-compassion and self-care with a little effort. You don’t want to be too hard on yourself. At the same time, you might have to get a little outside your comfort zone. Try to set realistic expectations for yourself and listen to your body. What does your best life look like today? Think about how you’d like to feel or what you want to be doing. Then try to create balance. You might reward yourself for doing some homework with 15 minutes of a calming activity. 

You may want to track how different healthy coping activities make you feel. On days when you’re really feeling down, you’ll know exactly what to do.

Try the following coping skills to find some healthy ways to manage your depression symptoms:

1. Have a heart-to-heart with a close friend — We all need close friends we can lean on when we’re struggling. See if you can find a trusted friend who’s available and willing to listen. It’s a good idea to spend some time nurturing positive relationships when you’re not feeling depressed. That way you’ll know who you can go to when you need support.

2. Journal about your thoughts and feelings — Sometimes writing things down can help you feel like you’re getting negative feelings out of your head and your body. Find a journal or a piece of paper and start writing without filtering yourself. Keep going until you feel like you’re done. Reading your own journal entries can be a great source of personal growth. You can reflect on what you’ve written if you like or put it away for another time. Or you can tear it up and throw it away. 

3. Get some physical activity — Moving your body is another way to “work out” difficult feelings and feel a bit lighter. Cardiovascular exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and boost your endorphins. Going for a walk is a good start. You could also search for a calming yoga video or practice your favorite sport. 

4. Engage in some self-care — Many of the things on this list are different forms of self-care. It doesn’t always look like relaxation or meditation. Self-care can be listening to music or doing a task you’ve been putting off for a while. It can also be pampering yourself, making expressive art, or doing a meditation on loving-kindness or self-compassion.

5. Recognize the good things in your life — When you’re already feeling depressed, it can be easier to focus on the negatives and ignore all the good in your life. Listing things you’re grateful for can feel like work at first. Give it a try and see if your mood changes.

6. Set small, attainable goals — This is especially helpful when you’re feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. Give yourself a couple of easy wins by setting small goals you can accomplish today. Making even a little bit of progress can be enough to get you out of a funk.

7. Talk with a therapist — There may be times when your friends or family don’t have the capacity to listen. Or times when they don’t understand you enough to really support you. When you find the right therapist, you have someone you can count on to hear you out and provide an unbiased point of view. They’re likely to have a helpful perspective, and they’ll always have your best interest in mind.

Get support while you find coping skills that help with your depression

You shouldn’t be working on your depression all by yourself. If you don’t feel like you have supportive personal relationships, you might want to consider seeing a therapist. They can be there to listen and help you start to build healthy relationships. They can also help you process tough feelings and learn how to manage your depression.

An outpatient therapist is enough for many teens experiencing depression. Those with severe symptoms that interfere with daily life may benefit from a higher level of treatment. At Embrace U, we combine one-on-one therapy with family therapy and group therapy. We help make sure teens like you have a positive community while they’re learning to be their best selves. 

Do you have questions about treatment for depression? Contact our team today. We’re here to help.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among teens, according to data from the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Each suicide produces at least six and possibly hundreds of “survivors” or people left grieving, as estimated in a study funded by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC). Finding the right kinds of support is critical for teen survivors of suicide to begin their healing process.

In this article, we’ll share the most helpful types of support for survivors of suicide and how to access them.

What kinds of support are most helpful for teen survivors of suicide?

Teen survivors of suicide need a strong support network that includes different kinds of relationships. Their parents, family and friends play important roles in their personal lives. Their teachers and coaches help them stay connected with their community. A licensed clinician or treatment team will help them care for their mental health. 

Survivors of suicide should also consider seeking out others who share similar experiences. Your friends, your family and your therapist all provide a unique and necessary kind of support. However, they may not have the perspective of a person who’s lost someone to suicide. A support group for survivors of suicide can help you feel seen and heard by others who understand. This type of belonging and solidarity is very therapeutic.

Survivors of suicide find solidarity and connection in support groups 

People who’ve lost a friend or loved one to suicide are more likely to experience a traumatic loss or complicated grief. This means your feelings may be more intense and longer lasting. You may also experience more physical symptoms, like changes in sleep habits or indigestion. At the same time, the social stigma of death by suicide can make it harder to talk about your loss and seek support from people in your life. 

Other survivors of suicide get what you’re going through because they’ve had similar feelings and experiences. A support group is a safe space to talk about your grief openly. You can say how you truly feel without having to put someone else’s comfort first. Sharing what’s on your mind and being heard by people who understand you helps you feel less alone. Knowing you have a group session to look forward to every week can keep you going through your toughest moments.

Support groups are a safe place to reach out for help

There will be times when you need help navigating feelings and situations that you don’t know how to handle on your own. If you aren’t sure how a friend or family member will react, it can be hard to confide in them. Other survivors are familiar with this feeling. They can listen with compassion and hear you without judging you. They can also use their perspectives and experiences to help you find a solution. A great support group will make you feel like you belong. They’ll encourage you to reach out for help and help you feel safe enough to do so.

Survivors of suicide inspire each other to heal

In addition to feeling seen and heard, support groups are a place where you can find hope and inspiration. You’ll hear stories from other people who are further along in their healing journey. They’ll share their challenges and triumphs, showing you how strong the human spirit can be. They’ll also talk about the coping skills and resources that have helped them the most. Going to a support group will bring up uncomfortable feelings. However, the benefit of processing these emotions is long-term healing. The relief and sense of community you’ll find by attending a peer support group far outweigh the momentary discomfort of sharing your grief.

Support groups are an important part of treatment for survivors of suicide

It can take a long time to start to feel like yourself again after someone close to you dies by suicide. Your friends and family may say things that aren’t very helpful even though they have the best intentions. Being around other people who’ve had similar losses and hearing their stories can help you feel a little less overwhelmed. When you’re comfortable enough to share what you’re going through, you deserve a safe space where you can feel seen and heard. Support groups for survivors of suicide can help with each step of the journey.

As a teen, you’ll probably feel more comfortable talking with other survivors around your age. At Embrace U, our intensive outpatient programs for teens combine powerful peer support groups with one-on-one and family therapy. We’ve created a welcoming and positive healing community where you’ll meet other teens who are working on their own mental health. We’ll also help your family understand what you’re going through and learn helpful ways to support you.

Are you looking for a treatment program just for teens? Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment. Let’s take the next steps together.

High-functioning depression is a term that can be misleading, as it’s not a formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5-TR). The DSM-5-TR is a manual that qualified professionals use to diagnose and explain mental health conditions to their patients. While teens experiencing high-functioning depression may appear to be “doing fine,” they are constantly battling the emotional weight that affects their mood, energy and overall well-being. They may not experience extreme emotional breakdowns, but high-functioning depression can still have long-term impacts on their mental health, personal development and their ability to cope with life’s challenges. 

Common symptoms of high-functioning depression

While symptoms of high-functioning depression can vary, some common symptoms, according to Cleveland Clinic, can include:

1. feeling hopeless, helpless or sad
2. loss of interest in things that they used to enjoy
3. changes in eating habits
4. changes in sleeping patterns
5. difficulty concentrating
6. negative thoughts about themselves or others

The exact cause behind high-functioning depression and depression isn’t exactly known but may include factors such as:

• brain chemistry
• hormones
• family history
• early childhood trauma
• learned patterns of negative thinking

In addition to these factors, certain risk factors can make teens more susceptible to developing teen depression:

• having low-self esteem
• experiencing other mental health conditions
• having a learning disability or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• having a chronic illness
• misusing substances or drugs
• being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community in an unsupportive environment

How to support your teen experiencing high-functioning depression 

If you suspect that your teen may be experiencing high-functioning depression, it’s essential to offer them support and encouragement. Here are some steps you can take to support them:

• Have open communication — The first and most important thing you can do as a parent or guardian is to have an open line of communication with your teen. Let them know you are there to listen to them without judgment and encourage them to share their feelings. Your teen may not realize they are experiencing depression because they don’t fit the typical image of someone who is severely withdrawn or feeling hopeless. Being there for them and helping them to realize that it’s OK not to feel OK, even when they are managing their daily tasks, can be a huge relief for them. 

• Practice active listening — When your teen turns to you to open up about their feelings, it’s essential to practice active listening. This means you give your teen your full attention, listen without interrupting them and show them that you’re truly engaged in what they have to say. You can do this by nodding, keeping eye contact and giving verbal cues such as, “I understand” or “I’m here for you.” Active listening shows your teen that you genuinely care about their feelings and want to understand what they’re experiencing. Don’t immediately jump to offering solutions; they may just need to feel heard. Ask if they want help problem-solving and then give advice if needed.  

• Validate their emotions — Your teen may feel guilty or confused about their emotions because they don’t “look” depressed. It’s crucial to validate their feelings by letting them know it’s OK to feel how they feel, no matter how confusing or overwhelming it may seem. You may say something like, “I can see that you’re going through a lot right now, and it’s OK to feel sad or overwhelmed even if everything seems fine on the outside.” Validating your teen’s emotions can help reassure them that their feelings are real and worth addressing. Reassurance can help them feel less isolated and more understood. 

• Encourage healthy habits — Depression, even in its high-functioning form, can take its toll on your teen’s physical and mental health over time. Encourage your teen to adopt healthy habits to help them manage their emotional well-being. A few important areas to focus on include getting enough quality sleep, doing physical activity, eating a nutritious and balanced diet, practicing mindfulness and relaxation exercises, and staying socially connected. 

• Seek professional help — If your teen’s symptoms are severe or persistent, you may want to consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide your teen with valuable tools for coping with depression. A mental health professional can help your teen:

• understand their feelings
• develop healthy coping skills
• identify any underlying issues

This support is crucial in helping your teen manage their high-functioning depression and begin their journey toward healing.

Complications of untreated depression

If left untreated, even high-functioning depression can have serious consequences, including:

• relationship challenges and family conflicts
• family conflicts
• academic performance decline
• substance use
• suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• development of other mental health conditions

Tailored mental health support for your teen with Embrace U

At Embrace U, we were founded to help address the mental health crisis facing adolescents aged 10 to 18 in Middle Tennessee. We understand the unique challenges teens face and know that sometimes they need extra support than traditional weekly sessions can provide. Our intensive outpatient programs are offered after school to help ensure that care fits seamlessly into your teen’s life. We believe that caring for their mental health shouldn’t come at the expense of living their life to the fullest. Our culture is built on kindness and acceptance, with a strong focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where every adolescent feels a sense of belonging, empathy and security on their journey toward healing.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.

Recognizing the signs of teen depression is essential to help your teen get early intervention. Symptoms of teen depression include:

• persistent sadness or low mood
• loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
• difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• fatigue or low energy
• feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• irritability or increased anger
• thoughts of death or suicide 

Teen depression can be caused by a combination of factors:

• Biological factors may include hormonal changes or a family history of mental health challenges.

• Environmental triggers can include bullying, social isolation, academic pressure or family conflict. 

What is an intensive outpatient treatment center?

Treatment centers with intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are designed to provide mental health care to teens who need more than just regular counseling or therapy but don’t require full hospitalization. IOPs allow teens to receive focused mental health treatment while still going to school and participating in their daily routines. This helps keep disruptions to your teen’s life to a minimum. Most IOPs at treatment centers provide several hours of therapy and support each day, multiple times a week. The goal of an IOP is to help create a structured environment where teens can:

• receive specialized care
• learn healthy coping mechanisms
• work toward improving their mental health

IOP treatment centers offer the following:

• group therapy
• individual therapy 
• family therapy
• psychiatric evaluations
• medication management

This approach can help your teen address the root causes of their depression and equip them with tools to manage their symptoms. Unlike inpatient treatment, where a teen would stay at the facility 24/7, IOP treatment offers them the flexibility to receive care while remaining connected to their home and community. 

7 benefits of intensive outpatient treatment for teen depression

IOP treatment centers offer several benefits for teens struggling with depression, including, but not limited to:

1. Flexibility — IOP treatment can offer a flexible schedule, which can allow your teen to balance their treatment with school and other commitments. It also allows your teen to sleep at home, which can be beneficial for their overall well-being. This provides your teen with the structured support they need, balanced with the ability to foster their independence and personal growth. 

2. Tailored treatment — Your teen’s IOP can be customized to meet their specific needs. This helps ensure that your teen receives the most effective care. Their treatment can involve a combination of individual and group therapy sessions to provide them with a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms of depression. 

3. Peer support — Connecting with peers who are facing similar issues can provide a sense of belonging and understanding. They can receive support and encouragement from other program participants throughout their recovery process. 

4. Skill development — Your teen will learn valuable and healthy coping skills to manage their emotions, thoughts and behaviors. An IOP can help your teen develop problem-solving abilities to navigate challenges effectively. 

5. Family development — IOPs can involve family therapy sessions to help improve communication and support within the family unit. Embrace U offers parent support groups. This can help your family learn about depression and how to best support your teen’s recovery. 

6. Cost-effectiveness — Intensive outpatient programs can be less expensive than inpatient treatment without sacrificing the quality of care your teen receives. 

7. Progress monitoring — An IOP can involve regular assessments to track your teen’s progress. This helps your teen’s care team make any necessary changes to their treatment plan. It also allows for timely and early intervention if your teen needs it. 

How to find the right treatment center for teen depression near you in Middle Tennessee

If you live in Middle Tennessee and are looking for an intensive outpatient treatment center for your teen, it’s crucial to do thorough research. Here are steps you can take to find a suitable treatment center:

• Talk with your family doctor or a mental health professional.

• Search online for teen-specific treatment centers:

• Psychology Today 
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 
• Mental Health America 

• Look for programs with specialization in teen depression that focus on:

• emotional regulation
• peer support
• family dynamics

• Review services before committing to a program, and make sure it offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

• individual therapy and group therapy specifically for teens

• family therapy to involve parents in the treatment process

• medication management if necessary

• specialized treatment for depression, which can include approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy

• peer support groups where teens can connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges

• Consider insurance coverage and cost. 

• Visit the treatment center to help you gauge the environment. 

• Ask questions, such as:

• What’s the typical program length?
• Why types of therapy are offered and how often?
• Is family involvement encouraged during the treatment process?
• What is the staff-to-client ratio?
• Do you offer aftercare or follow-up services?

By taking these steps, you can be better equipped to find an intensive outpatient treatment center in Middle Tennessee that provides your teen with the care, support and tools they need to help them manage and overcome depression. 

Empowering teens to heal at Embrace U, your partner in teen depression recovery

At Embrace U, we were founded to help combat the mental health crisis affecting adolescents in Middle Tennessee. With nearly 50% of Tennessee adolescents diagnosed with depression not receiving the care they need, we want you and your teen to know, they’re not alone. We provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care in the Brentwood and Mount Juliet areas, with our treatment being specifically designed to meet the unique needs of adolescents aged 10 to 18. At Embrace U, we’re here to support your teen on their journey to healing with the compassion they deserve. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.

Knowing what factors can affect your child’s social, mental and emotional well-being can help you understand their experience and support them through it. In this article, we’ll share 10 factors that may exacerbate existing depression symptoms in adolescents and how we help children learn to manage their feelings and symptoms.

What causes depression in adolescence?

Each young person who experiences depression is unique. While our children have a different set of life circumstances, they also respond differently to these things. The Identifying Depression Early in Adolescence (IDEA) global research consortium studied depression in adolescents and examined factors that can make it worse. They found that genetics play a role in who develops depression. For adolescents, physical health, nutrition, and a stable and supportive home life are important protective factors. If a child’s family lacks access to basic resources, or if they feel unsafe, that child may be more likely to feel depressed in the midst of a major life change. Adolescents in every socioeconomic group may struggle with low self-esteem, unhealthy coping mechanisms, social pressures, or high expectations for their performance in school. 

10 factors that may worsen the symptoms of depression in adolescents

Your child has a unique emotional landscape. If they are experiencing depression, there’s no need to blame yourself. Depression is a fact of life for many people, and if your child is prone to it, they’ll need help managing their symptoms. The same things that work for you may not work for your child, and that’s OK. As they grow more independent, however, they will need to be able to talk about their feelings and find healthy ways to manage them. Asking for help is another critical skill that many people don’t learn at this young age.

Understanding their depression and knowing what kinds of things can make it worse will be an important part of maintaining good mental health for them. The following are just 10 out of 31 factors identified by the IDEA research consortium that may worsen your adolescent’s depression symptoms:

1. Low self-esteem — Self-esteem shouldn’t be taken for granted. It has to be developed through positive experiences and nurturing relationships. If they don’t believe that they’re a good person and they’re capable of doing hard things, your child will be more vulnerable to the negative thoughts and feelings that come along with depression.

2. Ineffective or unhealthy coping mechanisms — Depression has a way of snowballing into an overwhelming force when it’s not managed effectively. Some unhealthy coping mechanisms that seem to work in the short term, like substance use or disordered eating, will cause bigger problems later on. Your child will need some help finding healthy coping mechanisms that work for them.

3. Major life changes — Depression symptoms can increase after a big event like a move to a new city or the loss of a close family member. Your child needs to be extra vigilant and proactive about good mental health at these times.
   
4. High academic expectations — Adolescents may internalize any pressure they’re feeling from parents or teachers to maintain good grades. Sometimes they’re harder on themselves than we realize. This pressure can fuel negative self-talk.

5. Instability in the home environment — Feeling unsafe or insecure at home usually has a negative impact on a child’s mental health. Frequent arguing, caregivers with unpredictable moods, and adult responsibilities can all contribute to depression.

6. Social pressures — Adolescence is a stage of development when people are very sensitive to fitting in and being liked by their peers. Bullying at school or online, peer pressure, and comparing oneself to others can make depression worse.

7. Malnutrition — Your child is growing, so eating a balanced diet and getting the nutrients they need will affect their mood, their brain function, and their energy level. Not getting enough to eat or lacking certain nutrients may worsen their depression.

8. Physical illness, injury or disability — Being physically unwell can raise a person’s risk of depression at any age. If your child is injured or sick for an extended period, they may need more support to maintain a positive outlook.

9. Limited access to resources — Poverty and a lack of supportive resources like positive mentors or mental health treatment may affect your child’s ability to manage their depression. 

10. Safety concerns — Exposure to gun violence and different types of abuse — or any perceived threat to your child’s safety — may worsen your child’s sense of worthiness and well-being. It may take a few honest conversations to find out if your child is fearing for their safety.

The IDEA research consortium identified these additional risk factors for depression in adolescents:

• Endocrine factors
• Family history
• Female sex
• Gender dysphoria
• Inflammation 
• Cognitive distortions
• Emotional abuse
• Emotional reactivity
• Exposure to trauma
• Neglect and deprivation
• Other mental disorders
• Physical, sexual and emotional abuse
• Bullying
• Discrimination
• Environmental toxins
• Gender roles and expectations
• Humanitarian emergencies
• Migration issues

At Embrace U, we help adolescents become more resilient to depression symptoms

Sometimes the life circumstances causing depression can change. In most cases, it takes professional treatment and a conscious effort to improve one’s mental health during a depressive episode. The decision to start treatment can be tough. However, taking the time to learn how to manage their depression now can set your child up for a lifetime of mental well-being.

At Embrace U, we provide comprehensive outpatient treatment for adolescents aged 10 to 18 that helps them be proactive about their own mental health. In our programs, young people receive a combination of individual, family, and group treatments. We’ve helped many adolescents experiencing depression get through difficult periods and feel more capable of managing their depression. 

Do you have questions about how to support your child? Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.

Nearly a third of children in Tennessee have a mental health diagnosis, and only 55% of these children receive treatment services, according to a poll from Vanderbilt University. The poll also found that only 47% of children with anxiety and 39% of children with depression are receiving treatment. 

At Embrace U, we’re addressing these challenges by providing comprehensive mental health treatment. Both children and their families participate in the treatment process to create stable, supportive home environments. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how we help adolescents and teens improve their mental health and what you can expect during the treatment process.

How does Embrace U’s Brentwood location help adolescents and teens with their mental health?

We’ve created a safe and peaceful environment in Brentwood, TN where adolescents and teens can work through their mental health challenges with the support of a community that cares. We hold powerful peer support groups and help children learn about coping and communication skills during group therapies. Families attend therapy sessions together, so everyone learns about their role in supporting each other. Each child in our care receives a personalized treatment plan designed to create the type of healing experience they need for long-term mental wellness. As patients transition back to their regular routine, we adjust their treatment schedule as needed and provide continued support.

You’ll follow this process to receive comprehensive mental health treatment for your child:

1. Contact us — Our admissions team is available to answer your questions between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays. We can provide more information about treatment logistics and help you schedule your consultation and assessment. Give us a call at (615) 656-8624 or send us a message.

2. Free clinical consultation — We’ll need to gather some information about your child and your family before our in-depth assessment. During your consultation, you’ll talk with a licensed clinician who can answer questions about how we might be able to help your child and share more about our treatment approaches.

3. Psychiatric assessment — Your child will spend some time with a care provider who will guide them through a series of questions about what they’re experiencing. The provider will also be able to answer your child’s questions about treatment. This will give us some insight into what may be causing their symptoms and any mental health conditions your child may be experiencing. We’ll use this information to create your child’s personalized treatment plan. 

4. Therapeutic assignment — We’ll pair your child with an individual therapist on our team who has the experience and the personality to support them throughout their treatment experience. We’ll also provide details about your child’s specific treatment plan and what to expect during their first days of treatment. 

5. Comprehensive treatment — Your child will attend group treatments with adolescents or teens around the same age. They’ll see their individual therapist frequently, and caregivers and siblings are expected and encouraged to participate in family therapy sessions. We also hold separate learning sessions just for caregivers. 

6. Continued support — We gradually reduce treatment hours to support your child and your family in a smooth transition back to school and community life. We’ll still be here for you after your child’s last day of treatment, too. You can reach out to us anytime.

Services we offer at our Brentwood mental health clinic

Our mental health treatment programs in Brentwood are more comprehensive than traditional therapy. In addition to individual therapy, your child will attend group therapy, receive psychiatric evaluations, family counseling, and medication management. They will receive support from their peers and learn emotional regulation skills. Treatment takes place during the day so your child can spend their nights at home. For many families, this means they can avoid inpatient treatment at a hospital or shorten their child’s hospital stay.

We offer these services for teens and adolescents at our Brentwood mental health clinic:

• Partial hospitalization — Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the most intensive form of treatment we offer. Patients attend PHP from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. five days a week, and they have time to work on school assignments.

• Intensive outpatient — Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) takes place outside of school hours. It provides a high level of support while adolescents and teens adjust to their school environment. 

• Parent U — Parent U offers caregivers opportunities to learn about what their children are going through and learn how to support them at home. You’ll have good conversations with other parents of children who are working on their mental health and receive peer support.

Talk with a licensed clinician at our Brentwood mental health center

Making the decision to seek treatment for your child can be tough, especially if no one in your family has experience with it. We applaud parents who take the time to explore their options and learn about what good mental health looks like. You won’t be doing this alone — you’ll have a community of care providers and other families to support you. Not only will your child receive the individualized care they need, but your entire family will grow, and you may find that you come through this with closer and stronger relationships. 

You probably have some questions about treatment and mental health in general. We’d love to answer them! Give us a call today or contact our team. Let’s talk about the next steps in your child’s mental health journey.

You’re not alone. Many teens struggle with sleep problems, and while these issues can be related to diet and exercise, sleep environment, screen time or medical conditions, they are often linked to various mental health conditions. Let’s explore why this happens, how common sleep problems are among teens, and what you can do to help improve your sleep and overall well-being. 

How common are sleep problems in teens?

Sleep problems can be incredibly common among teens. Around 70% of U.S. high school students report having trouble sleeping, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Sleep problems that teens face include:

• Trouble falling asleep
• Frequently waking up during the night
• Not being able to fall back to sleep after waking up too early

Several factors can contribute to your sleep problems. For many teens, these factors behind sleep problems can include:

• Busy schedules
• School demands
• Social activities
• Part-time jobs
• Technology and social media

However, sometimes sleep problems can be linked to deeper mental health challenges. 

Effects of not getting enough sleep

Not getting enough sleep can have a significant impact on your body and mind. When you don’t get enough quality sleep, you may notice:

• Difficulty concentrating — Without getting enough sleep, focusing on tasks at school or remembering important information can be tough. This can affect your performance in class and your overall ability to learn. 

• Mood changes — Sleep deprivation can make you feel overly irritable or moody. It can also increase feelings of sadness or anxiety, making it harder for you to handle everyday stress.

• Health problems — Chronic sleep troubles can cause you to experience physical health problems, such as:

• Headaches
• Weight gain
• A weakened immune system

• Behavioral issues — Not getting enough sleep can lead you to engage in risky behaviors or have problems with decision-making. These behavioral issues can affect your relationships with friends and family.

Getting a good night’s sleep benefits your overall health. It’s vital to address problems with your sleep as soon as they start.

Mental health conditions that can cause sleep issues

Several mental health conditions can affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep, including:

• Anxiety — Anxiety disorders are one of the most common causes of sleep problems in teens. When you struggle with anxiety, the anxious feelings can cause your mind to race with worries and fears. This struggle can make it hard for you to relax at night, lying in bed for hours without falling asleep. Approximately 32% of U.S. adolescents and teens aged 13 to 18 experience an anxiety disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

• Depression — Approximately 20% of U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. When you’re struggling with depression, you may:

• Have trouble falling asleep
• Wake up too early
• Sleep too much

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — ADHD can cause teens to have trouble sleeping due to restlessness and an overactive mind. About 6 million children in the U.S. aged 3 to 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — If you’ve experienced a traumatic event, you may have nightmares or trouble sleeping due to hyperarousal or experiencing constant feelings of fear. An estimated 5% of U.S. adolescents aged 13 to 18 who have gone through traumatic experiences, or adverse childhood experiences, experience PTSD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. 

• Bipolar disorder — Bipolar disorder is characterized by significant mood swings, including periods of very high energy, or mania, and very low energy, or depression. During manic episodes, you may find it hard to sleep, while depressive episodes may make you sleep too much. An estimated 3% of American adolescents aged 13 to 18 are affected by bipolar disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. 

Treatment options for mental health conditions that cause sleep problems in teens

If you’re dealing with sleep problems related to a mental health condition, there are several treatment options that can help:

• Therapy — Talking to a therapist or other qualified mental health professional can help you manage the underlying issues causing your sleep problems. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective in helping anxiety and depression. It can also help you develop better sleep habits. 

• Medication — In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions. It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance to determine the best treatment for you and any potential risks. 

• Sleep hygiene — Developing good sleep habits can make a big difference. Good sleep habits include:

• Sticking to a regular sleep schedule
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Making your sleep environment as comfortable as possible

• Relaxation techniques — Relaxation techniques can help calm your mind and make it easier to fall asleep. Here are some to try:

• Deep breathing
• Meditation
• Progressive muscle relaxation

• Family and friends — Sometimes, talking to people you trust about what you’re going through can be very helpful. They can provide support and understanding, which can help boost your mental well-being and sleep quality. 

If you’re struggling with sleep problems and think they may be related to a mental health condition, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are resources and treatments available to help you, and getting the right help can make a big difference in how you feel and how well you sleep. By addressing both your sleep issues and any underlying mental health challenges, you can find a path to better rest and a happier, healthier life. 

Embrace U can help you overcome mental health-related sleep issues

At Embrace U, we are dedicated to providing the extra support that goes beyond weekly therapy sessions. With our intensive outpatient programming, we offer a comprehensive approach to help you manage the mental health conditions that may be contributing to your sleep troubles. Our programs are after school, helping you keep your life as typical as possible. With our guidance, we can help you find effective ways to make strides toward better sleep and a healthier, more balanced life. 

BPD can run in families. However, it often arises when a young person endures stressful situations or abuse. This article explores childhood experiences that can lead young people to develop borderline personality disorder.

What is borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder involves difficulties with a person’s sense of identity, their relationships or their emotions. People experiencing BPD may have intense or overwhelming feelings that can change quickly. Most people receive a BPD diagnosis when their symptoms start to make it hard to cope on a daily basis.

Some common symptoms of BPD include:

• An overwhelming worry that you’ll be abandoned or rejected. You may take drastic action to prevent this from happening.
• Taking big risks or doing things without thinking, such as binge eating or self-harm
• Intense emotions that can change very quickly (e.g., feeling elated one moment and deeply distressed after something happens to change that)
• Feeling unable to control your actions when your emotions are intense
• Not feeling a clear sense of self. You may also feel like a different person depending on who’s around you.
• Having difficulty with relationships. You might tend to see relationships as either perfect and great or absolutely terrible.
• Feeling lonely or empty a lot of the time
• Experiencing paranoia or dissociation

What are some common childhood causes of borderline personality disorder?

The causes of borderline personality disorder aren’t always clear. While many people with this condition have a genetic predisposition or early traumatic experiences, some don’t. Traumatic experiences might include abuse and neglect. Other situations that make you feel unsafe or invalidated can have similar effects. An unstable home environment, insecure relationships and ongoing stress can all contribute to BPD. Too much stress at certain stages of development can affect function and connectivity in certain areas of the brain. This results in emotional and cognitive differences that cause difficulties. People who develop this condition often have multiple co-occurring disorders, according to a review of 20 years of research on BPD. These may include mood and anxiety disorders or behavioral disorders like addictions or eating disorders.

Unstable family relationships

Growing up in an unstable home environment can create conditions for children to develop BPD as a teen or an adult. Because BPD can run in families, having a family member with unmanaged BPD symptoms can be a contributing factor. Inappropriate boundaries with family members, such as parents oversharing about problems in their relationship, may cause a child to have similarly unhealthy boundaries. Being separated from a parent, having a caregiver with a substance use disorder or having invalidating relationships can also increase your likelihood of developing BPD.

Abuse and neglect

Some young people develop BPD when their physical or emotional needs are neglected. Sexual assault, coercion or manipulation can lead to the kinds of symptoms that characterize BPD. Teens and adolescents may also develop this disorder after being physically abused.

Traumatic events

Other types of traumatic experiences and losses can contribute to borderline personality disorder — for instance, losing a parent or a caregiver who was close to you or witnessing hostility and violence. Events without a specific cause, like car accidents and natural disasters, can also bring about symptoms of BPD.

Fear and distress

Being exposed to long-term distress for any reason (e.g., feeling that you or your loved ones may be in danger or witnessing someone else’s emotional turmoil) can cause difficulty with your emotions, sense of self and relationships. Situations that put children in an adult role prematurely, such as earning money for their family, can cause a high level of ongoing stress.

Get help for borderline personality disorder at Embrace U

Even experts disagree about what borderline personality disorder is and how it should be identified and treated. Unfortunately, this can result in misunderstandings and misdiagnosis. In our outpatient programs for adolescents and teens at Embrace U, we provide a lot of education to help patients learn about their conditions and take an active part in their own treatment processes. We also involve family members to ensure that patients have the support they need to maintain their mental health after treatment. 

Some care providers are hesitant to diagnose teens with BPD. However, when left untreated, the emotional symptoms and relationship dynamics that characterize BPD have a very real impact on teens’ lives. Treatment at Embrace U is about more than labeling and symptom reduction. We help teens develop a healthy self-image and positive skills for healthy relationships and emotional regulation. The things you learn in treatment will continue to benefit you long into adulthood.

Have questions about borderline personality disorder or treatment? Contact our team or give us a call today.