Why Your Teen Might Be Struggling More Than You Think

Adolescence has long been considered a time of “storm and stress” — a phase marked by mood swings, identity exploration, and a push for independence. It’s a well-known narrative: teens are supposed to be emotional, distant, and unpredictable. And while there’s some truth to this, this perception can often mask genuine struggles, leading parents to overlook or minimise signs of distress in their child.

But what if your teen is going through more than just growing pains?

The Hidden Emotional World of Teens

Teenagers today face a unique and complex mix of pressures — from academic stress and body image concerns to the influence of social media and fear of missing out (FOMO). While it may seem like your teen is managing okay, many young people work hard to hide their struggles.

Some reasons teens keep things to themselves include:

• Fear of being a burden: Many teens worry that opening up will cause stress or disappointment to their parents.
• Concerns about being “abnormal”: Mental health stigma is still very real, and teens may feel ashamed or afraid of being judged.
• Avoidance of therapy: The idea of seeing a psychologist may feel overwhelming or embarrassing — especially if it’s not something openly talked about in the family.
• Withdrawal is normal: As part of their developmental need for independence, teens often communicate less with their family. This natural distancing can make it harder for parents to spot emotional distress.

When Struggles Go Unseen

In an increasingly digital world, much of teens’ communication with peers happens out of sight — via text, social media, or gaming platforms. Unfortunately, this means that things like cyberbullying, social exclusion, or unhealthy peer dynamics can go unnoticed. It’s not uncommon for parents to find out their teen is being bullied only when the school or another parent steps in.

Compounding this is the fact that adolescence is a critical window for mental health. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2023):

• Around 1 in 4 young people aged 15–24 experience a mental health disorder each year.
• 75% of mental health issues emerge before the age of 25, yet many go untreated.
• Only 54% of young people with a mental disorder access professional help.

These figures are a powerful reminder that the teen years are not only turbulent — they’re a time of vulnerability that demands our attention.

What Parents Can Look Out For

Because teens may not speak openly, recognising the subtle signs becomes crucial. Warning signs may include:

• Noticeable changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
• Increased irritability, withdrawal, or loss of interest in activities
• Drop in school performance or avoidance of school
• Physical complaints with no clear cause (e.g. headaches, stomachaches)
• Expressions of hopelessness or self-criticism
• Sudden changes in friendship groups or increased secrecy

Why Your Support Still Matters — Even When It’s Rejected

It’s important to remember that even when your teen rolls their eyes, grunts in response, or shrinks away from affection — your care and presence still matter. In fact, research shows that just knowing a parent is emotionally available and non-judgmental can be protective for a young person’s mental health.

Your efforts to connect — even if they seem to fall flat — still communicate love and support. Small moments of connection add up, and may be the reason your teen eventually opens up or agrees to get help.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been wondering whether your teen might be going through more than what’s visible on the surface, you’re probably right to be curious. Being a safe, open and compassionate presence in your teen’s life — and knowing when to reach out for professional support — can make a world of difference.

At Future Minds Psychology, we’re here to support families through the challenges of adolescence. If you’re concerned about your teen’s wellbeing, don’t wait for things to get worse. Early support can lead to better outcomes, greater resilience, and a stronger relationship with your teen.