How Early Puberty Affects Your Child’s Mental Health

May 16, 2023

Here’s how physiology affects psychology and how to support your child.

Children are entering puberty sooner in life than ever before. About 1 in 5,000 children experience early puberty, and it can affect them, their families, and their non-pubescent peers in many ways, particularly when it comes to mental health. 

Puberty Naturally Triggers Mental Changes

Puberty affects the brain just as much as the body, regardless of when puberty starts. Hormones are in flux and can cause mood changes, outbursts, and feelings that kids have never dealt with before. What’s more, they’re also navigating the complexities of school, sports, social lives, and other demands. All of this can take a toll on mental health.

Early Puberty Can Create Additional Mental Health Impacts

The stakes are higher for those going through early puberty. It can feel isolating to be “ahead of the pack.” A changing body can make a child look older, which may draw unwanted attention or unrealistic expectations. Kids aren’t mentally equipped to deal with certain emotions or experiences at their younger ages. And because they haven’t had the benefit of seeing their friends go through puberty, they can feel at a loss as to how to handle these new feelings.

When Parents Should Seek Extra Support

Preparing your child for puberty before it starts and offering coping skills can help them navigate this confusing time. Cognitive therapy and a youth behavioral assessment can also help bridge the gap when communications become challenging. 

At Hallmark Youthcare, we tailor our inpatient programs to the individual and help families and their teens thrive together. Contact us today to learn more.

Sources:

Image: ©AIMSTOCK via Canva.com

https://childmind.org/article/how-early-puberty-affects-childrens-mental-health/

https://www.webmd.com/children/causes-symptoms

Subscribe blog for the latest updates

Join our subscribers list to get the latest news,updates and special offers

Categories

Popular posts

Related News

4 Tips for Talking to Your Teen About Substance Use

Open, non-judgmental dialogue can change their lives for the better Talking to teens about substance use can be a delicate and challenging conversation. It’s also one that could save their life. Here’s how you can equip your teen with the knowledge and skills to make safe choices. Make Time to Talk Springing a sensitive subject […]
Read full story...

What You Should Know About Teen Vaping

Vaping isn't "safe smoking" What was once considered a trendy alternative to smoking cigarettes has now become an alarming epidemic—especially among teens. Sleek designs, enticing flavors, and deceptive marketing tactics make it seem harmless, but a growing body of research shows otherwise. There’s no time like the present to talk to your teen about the […]
Read full story...

September is National Recovery Month

Use this as an opportunity to transform your teen's life September brings with it not only a change in weather but also a celebration of resilience and transformation. That’s why there’s no better time for National Recovery Month. This month brings opportunities to speak up about youth substance abuse, advocate for recovery, and move toward […]
Read full story...
1 2 3 7
hallmark youthcare benefits

residential treatment program

Traumatized children develop strategies for coping- some functional and some dysfunctional. We strive to empower youth and their families to overcome their difficulties and fulfill their potential.
Adolescent Focused (Ages 11-17)
24/7 Psychiatrist & Nursing Coverage
Comprehensive Discharge Planning
Psychoeducation Learning Groups
Accredited Substance Abuse Programs
Nutritional Counseling
Certified Activities Therapy
Individual, Group & Family Therapy
Promotion of Social Interaction
Do you have questions? We’re here to help.

Contact us today

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

hallmark youth care benefits

residential treatment program

Traumatized children develop strategies for coping- some functional and some dysfunctional. We strive to empower youth and their families to overcome their difficulties and fulfill their potential.
Adolescent Focused (Ages 11-17)
24/7 Psychiatrist & Nursing Coverage
Comprehensive Discharge Planning
Psychoeducation Learning Groups
Accredited Substance Abuse Programs
Nutritional Counseling
Certified Activities Therapy
Individual, Group & Family Therapy
Individual, Group & Family Therapy
Promotion of Social Interaction
Do you have questions? We’re here to help.

Contact us today nswers.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

COPYRIGHT©2021 HALLMARK YOUTHCARE
12800 West Creek Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23238
Admissions
Admissions
12800 West Creek pkwy, richmond, va 23238
COPYRIGHT©2021 HALLMARK YOUTHCARE
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram