Persistent irritability or frequent outbursts
Regular mood swings, tantrums, or intense frustration that seem out of proportion.

Frequent physical complaints with no clear cause
Ongoing stomachaches, headaches, or other physical symptoms that may be stress-related.

Inability to sit still or focus
Constant movement, restlessness, or trouble staying still—except during screen time (e.g., video games or videos).

Social withdrawal or difficulty making friends
Lack of interest in socializing, playing with peers, or maintaining relationships.

Academic struggles or a sudden drop in performance
Noticeable changes in grades, attention span, or motivation at school.

Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Teens may withdraw from hobbies, sports, or routines and begin to avoid daily responsibilities like school, chores, or hygiene.

Changes in sleep patterns
Sleeping too much or too little, experiencing insomnia, or appearing fatigued and low-energy throughout the day.

Social withdrawal
Actively avoiding friends, family gatherings, or once-loved group activities.

Body image concerns and disordered behaviors
Expressing intense fear of weight gain, showing signs of restrictive eating, excessive exercising, or frequent body-checking.

Engaging in self-harm
Deliberate self-injury such as cutting, scratching, or burning the skin—often as a way to cope with emotional pain.

Risky or destructive behavior
Participating in high-risk activities like sneaking out, aggressive defiance of rules, reckless driving, unsafe sexual activity, or substance use (alcohol, vaping, drugs).

Sudden mood or behavior changes
Rapid shifts in mood, noticeable irritability, hopelessness, or unexplained emotional outbursts.