Teen Issues

BULLYING: Bullying is hurting others by physically harming them, making them uncomfortable, calling them names, or spreading rumors. Bullying can occur in person, over social media like Facebook, via e-mail, and by texting. Bullying is intentional aggressive behavior, and no one has the right to bully you.

CYBER HARM: Cyber harm involves bullying and all forms of inappropriate contact with teens over the Internet.

DATING VIOLENCE: Dating violence is controlling, abusive, and aggressive behavior in a romantic relationship. It can include verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, or a combination.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE: Substance abuse is the use of any substance that is not approved medically and that harms the individual by interfering with their judgment and decision-making and causing dependence. Any type of drug can be abused, included prescription medications.

EATING DISORDERS: Anorexia and bulimia are the most commonly identified eating disorders. Anorexia is a disorder in which the person tries to control their weight by eating less and less. Bulimia is a disorder in which the person will eat too much (binge) and then cause vomiting or take laxatives to prevent weight gain.

UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS: Relationships with others that are consistently painful to you may be unhealthy. Jealousy or possessiveness are often characteristics of unhealthy relationships. Physical or emotional abuse in a relationship is always unhealthy.

SELF-HARM: Self-harm is deliberately injuring oneself. It can include cutting, burning, and other forms of injury. Self-harm is a serious sign of emotional difficulties.

SEXUAL IDENTITY CONCERNS: Sexual identity confusion is common among teens, but can develop into a significant problem for some. Problems related to sexual identity confusion are often related to trying to hide concerns.

SUICIDAL THINKING: Suicide is defined as taking one’s own life. Persistent thoughts of killing oneself are dangerous symptoms. Often, suicidal thoughts mean that although the person needs help, they are not certain they can find it.