This blog is written by the clinicians at Jonah Green and Associates, a mental health practice based in Kensington, MD that provides quality services for children, teens, families, and adults. It is intended as a resource for families who are seeking to expand their knowledge about mental health and mental health services, and also as a resource for families who are seeking quality mental health services, especially in the mid-Atlantic region.
Teenage years are demanding, with adolescents facing increasing academic responsibilities, social pressures, and physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. While many teenagers thrive, others experience difficulties such as depression, anxiety, poor school performance, eating disorders, substance abuse problems, and conduct issues. Conflict within families may also increase as teenagers alternately reject adult directions, demand privileges, or
Childhood trauma can result from acute or prolonged emotionally or physically threatening experiences, including abuse or neglect, accidents, illness, familial conflict, loss, or discrimination. Traumatized children may feel overwhelmed, helpless, or shocked and have difficulty processing their experiences. Signs of trauma include prolonged anger, sadness, or fear; numbness; nightmares or flashbacks; irritability; and frequent upset.