The Different Ways Hormonal Imbalances Can Affect Teen Health

As you know, teenage years are full of raging hormones, uncontrollable emotions, and a desire for more independence. Yet, some teens can also suffer from hormonal imbalances that can impact their actions, behavior, and self-esteem.

If you suspect your child’s mood or acts indicate more than typical teenage behavior, you may need to provide your daughter or son with more support and understanding. Learn about the different ways hormonal imbalances can affect teen health.

Mental Health Disorders

Unbalanced hormonal levels among teens can lead to the development of one or more mental health disorders. Combined with external stresses, a hormonal imbalance can impair the brain’s functionality, increase stress hormone receptors, and lower relaxation hormone receptors.

As a result, a teenager is more likely to develop anxiety and depression. Common signs to look out for can include:

• Mood swings
• A lack of self-worth
• Angry or emotional outbursts
• Irritability
• A loss of interest in activities
• Sleeping problems
• Unhealthy habits
• Poor motivation
• Nervousness
• Concentration difficulties

If you suspect your teen has a mental health disorder, help is available to get to the root cause of the problem and overcome the condition. Talk to your teen about their emotions and encourage them to discuss their everyday feelings and thoughts. Also, learn about a residential depression center for teenagers at igniteteentreatment.com, which will allow your son or daughter to recover in a tranquil, supportive setting.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Despite Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) commonly affecting women in their 20s, many teens live with the problem caused by a hormonal imbalance. People living with PCOS may experience:

• Menstrual cycle changes
• Increased body and facial hair
• Acne
• Ovary cysts
• Metabolism issues
• A deepening voice
• Reduced breast development

Unfortunately, PCOS can cause infertility in women, and it might be responsible for your teen’s intense emotions and skin changes. If your child has one or more of the above problems, seek medical help immediately, as a hormonal imbalance may have caused PCOS.

Thyroid Disorders

Teenagers and adults can struggle with one of two thyroid disorders: Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism is caused by the production of too many hormones in the body. Also known as an overactive thyroid, the condition can cause various unwanted symptoms among teens and adults, such as:

• Weight loss
• Anxiety
• Palpitations
• Fatigue

Conversely, hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, is due to the production of too few thyroid hormones and can lead to:

• Depression
• Weight gain
• Dry hair and skin
• Irregular periods

A simple thyroid blood test can identify if your teen is living with a thyroid disorder. Following a diagnosis, your teen can receive prescription medication or radioiodine therapy to improve the hormonal imbalance and eliminate the associated symptoms.

Many teenagers are living with a hormonal imbalance, and there are treatment options available to ease symptoms. While a hormonal imbalance might not be the cause of your teen’s behavior, habits, or health issues, a simple test and diagnosis could make their transition into adulthood much easier.