
Teen Mood Swings or Depression? How to Tell
Being a teenager comes with its fair share of ups and downs. Between changing hormones, social pressures, academic stress, and the quest for independence, it’s no wonder teens can seem

Teen Sadness vs. Depression: Understanding the Difference
Teenagers often ride an emotional roller coaster—one moment they’re laughing with friends, and the next, they’re shutting themselves in their room. This emotional intensity is a normal part of adolescence,

Understanding Ayahuasca: A Guide for Parents and Teens
At Hillcrest Adolescent Center, we recognize the importance of providing families with accurate, science-based information about substances that may impact youth development. In recent years, ayahuasca has emerged from its

Trichotillomania in Teens
If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver noticing that a teen is frequently pulling out their hair—whether it’s from their scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes—you may be witnessing signs of a

Is It Normal For A Teenager to Have a Stuffed Animal?
In today’s world, where teens are navigating pressures from academics, peers, and the internet, it’s easy to forget that they’re still growing emotionally. One question that often surprises parents is:

ODD vs DMDD: What’s The Difference
Children and adolescents often exhibit challenging behaviors as they grow and develop. However, when these behaviors become persistent and disruptive, they may signal underlying behavioral disorders. Two such conditions are

What Does It Mean When My Child Picks Their Skin?
If you’ve noticed your teen picking, scratching, or digging at their skin, you might feel worried and unsure about what this means or how to help. For many adolescents, this

The Difference Between Stress and Distress in Teenagers
Teenagers today navigate a world filled with academic pressure, social challenges, family expectations, and the influence of social media. It is natural for them to experience stress, which can be

The Affect of Bullying on Teenagers
How does bullying affect teens? Bullying is an unfortunate reality for many teenagers, with lasting effects that extend far beyond childhood. Whether it takes the form of verbal taunts, social