Sometimes it can feel like life is constantly throwing roadblocks in our way, and each one can impact our mental health. For teens, things like a poor grade on a test or a fight with a friend can make them sad for a few days. They might feel nervous about an upcoming exam, sports competition or social event, leading to some anxiety. But it’s important to learn about the major life events that can take a significant toll on your teen’s mental health.

There are very few instances where you can prevent your child from experiencing a difficult situation. However, it can be helpful to learn about milestones or major events that may impact their mental health. By being aware of how stressful life events may impact your teen, you can feel prepared and confident in your ability to guide them through it.

5 stressful life events that your teen may experience that can affect their mental health

It’s important to remember that everyone is affected by things differently. What may seem like “no big deal” to one teen could trigger a depressive episode or an anxiety attack in another. While every type of response is valid, all teens deserve to feel supported during significant life events, especially if it triggers a mental health challenge.

Here are five of the most stressful life events that could impact your teen’s mental health:

1. Parental divorce — Approximately half of the children born each year to married parents will see them divorced before the child turns 18. Teenagers who see their parents get divorced will often experience symptoms of depression, such as feelings of sadness and guilt. They might also feel stressed about how the dynamics of the family may change, especially if they have young siblings.

2. Loss of a loved one — Grief is an emotion that everyone will experience at least once in their life. It often stems from the loss of a loved one. When teens have a family member or close friend pass away, it can impact their mental health in a variety of ways: Many experience symptoms of major depressive disorder, such as pervasive feelings of sadness. Others may develop complicated grief. Depending on the nature of the passing, they might also experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

3. Moving — Relocating to a new place can take a significant physical, emotional and mental toll on the whole family. For teenagers, moving often means attending a new school and trying to “fit in” while making new friends. It also means trying to stay in touch with their old friends and getting used to a new area. The many aspects of moving can cause a teen to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it even more difficult to adapt to the changes. 

4. Graduation — Most students under the age of 18 look forward to crossing the stage after they finish 12th grade. But while graduation can be a momentous occasion that celebrates their hard work, it can also impact their mental health. They could feel sad about leaving the people they’ve seen almost every day for years. They may also feel anxious due to the fear of the unknown that may follow.

5. Post-high school decision — Continuing from the previous point, one of the most stressful aspects of being a teenager is figuring out what they want to do after graduation. The anxiety of trying to choose a career path or a college major can be overwhelming. Thinking about the nearly endless possibilities, weighing the pros and cons, and trying to decide who they want to be for the rest of their life can fill a teen with enough anxiety that they experience decision paralysis.

Embrace U can help your teen work through their most stressful life events

There are some significant life events and milestones that you’ll always remember. Unfortunately, not all of them are good memories. Your teen is likely going to experience some stressful life events before they reach adulthood. Many of those events can take a toll on their mental health, including depression, anxiety and trauma. 

The good news is that the right mental health treatment can guide them through their complex thoughts and feelings during stressful life events and changes. A therapist can be highly beneficial by helping them work through their emotions and gain a different perspective on the situation. However, if they need further mental health support, the intensive outpatient and partial hospital programs at Embrace U can help.

At Embrace U, we want to help your teen push past the roadblocks on their mental health journey and work toward a fulfilling future.

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