Self-esteem helps teens thrive in school. Students who are confident in their abilities can make friends easily and have a great time having fun at home. They excel in group activities and enjoy participating in class. Still, health conditions arise. As a parent, it’s important to understand what health conditions may be affecting your teen’s self-esteem.
1. Depression
Depression is much more than sadness and crying. It’s a chronic illness that leaves teens sad, hopeless, irritable, and unable to sleep. Depressed teens feel lonely and may be isolated while crying for hours. They may withdraw from friends, lose interest in extracurricular activities, lose motivation, and perform poorly in school. Untreated depression drives kids’ self-esteem lower without intervention.
Teens who stay engaged socially can cope with symptoms of depression and improve their self-esteem all at once. When kids talk, hang out, and spend time with other kids, they form bonds over similar interests, whether launching a school project or playing a board game after school.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when a person’s thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. Teens with hypothyroidism may notice mood swings, bouts of depression, low energy, and poor sleep. Motivation may be lacking. When left untreated, these symptoms lower self-esteem. Teens often like to be physically active during extracurricular activities and at home, so the loss of energy leads to low motivation, which produces feelings of inadequacy.
To combat hypothyroidism and increase self-esteem, parents should encourage teens to eat healthily. A rich diet of leafy vegetables and fresh fruits, combined with the right amount of protein and calories, fuels energy and helps fight off the effects of hypothyroidism. At least six glasses of water a day eliminates dehydration. An openness to hormone treatments might offer hope for brighter days. Supportive parents can encourage teens to engage in positive self-talk. There is hope for healing and wellness for teens living with hypothyroidism.
3. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
According to the CDC, approximately one in 44 U.S. children were diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in 2021. Autism can manifest as many different symptoms. People with this condition may struggle to speak coherently, use strange words and sounds, and get extremely upset quickly, with rapid behavior and mood changes taking up the day. Teens with autism may feel differently than their peers, but encouraging their uniqueness is crucial to improving self-esteem. Children will need confidence as they progress into adulthood.
Teens with autism need support and time. Parents should start by building on their kids’ strengths, whether in creativity, mathematics, science, or art. During these conversations, identify your child’s most exceptional traits, and explain that some behaviors result from their individuality rather than a condition. Teens who believe they are special and unique will think more highly of themselves and feel more stable and confident.
4. Anxiety
Anxiety is a mental health problem that affects many teens. It can manifest in different ways from one individual to another. Some teens may become quiet and withdrawn, while others may become irritable and lash out at their parents, teachers, or classmates.
Teens can experience anxiety for many different reasons. They may feel awkward around their peers, fear that they aren’t doing well enough in school, or feel embarrassed about the way their bodies are changing during puberty. If your child is dealing with any of these struggles, it’s important that you as a parent make it clear to them that you support them and love them even if they aren’t always perfect.
5. Orthodontal Problems
Please think of how important it is for your teen to feel comfortable smiling. A smile is what their peers see. If your child’s teeth are cracked or broken, misaligned or crooked, they’re experiencing orthodontal problems, some of which reduce self-esteem. Protruding teeth and overbites can make kids feel sad, but orthodontists have multiple ways to restructure a child’s teeth.
Orthodontists can offer many solutions when a child’s teeth need straightening. One potential option is Invisalign. According to PR Newswire, 47% of teen Invisalign users say they felt a boost in their self-esteem compared to only 22% of those who paid for metal braces. Trust that with healthy dental habits and the help of an orthodontist, your teen’s self-esteem can improve in no time.
Various health conditions can lower teens’ self-esteem, but there are ways to help your child build confidence and feel brighter about their future. Inspiring teens with health problems means informing them of the treatment options available and helping them find the best solutions for their needs. Make today the day you make your child feel better about tomorrow.