According to estimates from international organizations, 1 in 7 adolescents lives with some mental disorder, many of them without a diagnosis or timely care. The challenge, specialists warn, is that signs often appear gradually and can be confused with normal developmental changes, delaying their identification.
Signs parents should not ignore According to health specialists, there are behavioral changes that can alert to a possible emotional problem when they persist for weeks or affect daily life. Bupa México, a comprehensive health company, indicates that among the main signs are social isolation, when the child avoids interacting with family or friends; constant irritability, which manifests as frequent anger or tension; and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. They also highlight sleep and appetite disturbances.
Specialists recommend seeing a doctor or mental health professional when the changes are prolonged or affect the child's well-being. Mental health, they warn, should not be seen as a secondary issue, as it directly influences the emotional, academic, and social development of girls, boys, and adolescents. Experts point out that many adults with mental disorders showed symptoms from childhood, but they were not identified in time. Therefore, they recommend observing changes in behavior, validating the child's emotions without minimizing them, and maintaining constant communication. They also suggest involving the school when significant changes are detected and seeking professional support when symptoms persist or interfere with daily life.
Early detection can change the future Early detection is key to preventing major complications. Mental health in girls, boys, and adolescents has become a public health priority, but it remains one of the most difficult to detect in time within the family environment. In Mexico, for example, it has been identified that a significant percentage of adolescents report difficulties sleeping regularly.
Impact on school and physical health When mental health is affected, the way of learning and concentrating also changes. This can translate into poor school performance, difficulty following instructions, or neglect of tasks. Additionally, emotional distress can manifest physically through headaches, stomach discomfort, fatigue, or lack of energy without a clear medical cause. Specialists agree that these symptoms are often underestimated, delaying care and worsening the problem.
The role of the family in detection The family is one of the main protective factors.
