Parents can get more information by checking out the 'talk pages'. Click the button below.
 

Is something wrong or not?

It's hard sometimes to separate what is normal behaviour for a young person struggling to grow up and understand themselves from behaviour that should concern you as a parent. We have listed below some of the common signs that something could be wrong.

Many young people do not talk about what is troubling them, but problems at home, school or with peers may show in everyday behaviours that are not normal to your child. Pay attention to:

• unusual mood changes or rebelliousness
• increasing withdrawal from family and friends
• new friends of whom you may not approve
• drops in standard of school work or in school attendance
• experimenting with drugs or alcohol
• depression or suicidal thoughts or actions
• increased physical complaints or sleeping a lot more or a lot less than usual
• unexplained possessions or money

These signs should be dealt with directly before things get out of control, because that's when young people run away. You may not be the best person to challenge your child about this. Think about other people - family, friends, teachers etc.) who may have a good relationship with your teenager. Visit the 'talk pages' to find details of helplines that you may be able to discuss your concerns with.

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