During the pandemic, many teens have suffered through social isolation. They’ve spent countless more hours engaging in Zoom meetings and social media. Teen screen time, like many other children, is at an all-time high. For parents, consider social isolation and mental health. The current scenario makes it more difficult for teens to develop healthy habits while also putting them at risk for teen mental health disorders. What can you do? Venture Academy can help offer some suggestions.
Why Is Teen Screen Time So High?
The coronavirus pandemic has opened the door for concerns about teens’ physical health, and rightfully so. Yet, teen mental health is also a concern. With so many teens in social isolation from friends and family, many have resorted to screen times. From tablets to laptops to smartphones, teens are spending more time using their devices than engaging with real people. School closures, lack of social functions, lack of sports, and many other events have created limited opportunities for teens to develop their unique identities.
What Type of Mental Health Concerns Are Now Present?
Teen screen time has increased the risk of new mental health challenges. Teen mental health is already very fragile. Their hormones are sometimes unregulated. Their brains are still growing and developing. At this stage in their life, they learn how to be their unique self, but that’s been crippled by social isolation. For some, it’s led to the onset of conditions such as:
- Intense anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Stress
- Bipolar disorder
Social isolation and mental health go hand-in-hand. When teens are unable to embrace others, interact with peers, or experience both the ups and downs of life, they face limitations, mental breakdowns, and boredom.
Teen Screen Time Solutions – When to Get Your Teen Help
It’s not possible to take devices away from teens and hope for the best. Most need them for school and the limited social interaction they have. Yet, for parents, there are instances in which it’s possible to spot social isolation and mental health concerns. That’s when it’s best to reach out to treatment professionals.
For example, you may see your son or daughter lashing out in new ways. They may lack any respect. Some may be aggressive. Some teens end up lying, being angry, or being distraught. In some situations, they have developed poor sexual habits. They may be pulling away from you. When this occurs, our professionals can help you.
How to Get Your Teen Mental Health Help
It’s possible to get support for what’s happening right now. When you reach out to Venture Academy, our team will work with you through our 30-Day Assessment and Intervention. This is a time when a group of professionals will assess what’s happening with your teen and determine the best type of treatment available. This may be a youth detox program if they are using substances. There are supportive programs available to help teen mental health disorders improve. Medications and talk therapy may foster new change.
You can feel empowered again to help your teen when you utilize our services, including:
- Behavioural treatment
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- School programs and education
- Electronic addiction services
Ready to See Change? Turn to Venture Academy for the Support Needed
Teen screen time isn’t talked about as much as it is for younger children. Yet, teen mental health can be impacted by what they see just as much. With social isolation increasing due to the pandemic, many teens are now at risk. When it comes to social isolation and mental health, don’t put off getting your son or daughter the care they need. Call Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 or connect with us online for immediate help.
