Mental health in teenagers is often overlooked. Pressures from school, social media, peer relationships, and family expectations are frequently dismissed as mere “rites of passage.” Yet sudden mood swings, withdrawal from friends, loss of interest in hobbies, or frequent irritability can all signal that something deeper is happening. Parents and guardians should not simply look the other way.

The common phrase, “We’ve been there and we survived,” doesn’t always apply to today’s generation—especially with social media amplifying pressures and comparisons. So how can we distinguish between typical teenage behavior and signs that warrant attention?

Elaine Rose S. Ferrer, RPsy, a registered psychologist with over 15 years of counseling and clinical experience, offers guidance on how to spot behaviors that may require intervention. Ferrer’s expertise spans clinical work with adolescents and families, making her a credible source for parents seeking practical advice.

She refers to the 5 D’s as key markers. Experts often assess mental health concerns through five indicators—deviance, distress, dysfunction, danger, and duration. Originally developed decades ago by psychiatrists in the mid-20th century, these indicators remain relevant for understanding adolescent behavior. “While these markers apply to all ages, they are especially useful in understanding the complexities of teenage behavior,” Elaine says.

This refers to actions or thoughts that significantly differ from societal or developmental expectations. “You might notice a teen suddenly breaking rules or engaging in behaviors that are uncharacteristic, like withdrawing from long-standing friendships or expressing extreme ideas,” Elaine explains. While all adolescents experiment with identity, persistent or extreme deviations could mean potential deeper concerns.

Distress involves significant emotional challenges that affect daily life. Elaine notes, “If a teen expresses frequent sadness, irritability, or hopelessness. And it’s more than just a bad day, that’s when parents should take note.” Distress can manifest in anxiety, unexplained crying, or sudden mood swings, and it often impacts both school performance and relationships.

Dysfunction occurs when a teen’s mental state interferes with their normal routines. Elaine says, “Skipping classes, losing interest in hobbies, or struggling with basic self-care are signs that their daily functioning is compromised.” Unlike typical teenage laziness or rebellion, dysfunction has a consistent, disruptive effect on everyday activities.

Danger signals that a teen’s behavior may pose harm. Elaine stresses, “Any indication of self-harm, aggression, or reckless behavior is a serious red flag. It’s important not to dismiss threats or risky actions as just acting out.” Danger requires immediate attention and professional intervention.

Temporary mood swings are normal, but prolonged issues can be considered a concern. It is important to take note of how long these extend. “A fleeting bad week is different from months of emotional struggle or repeated harmful behavior,” Elaine clarifies. When signs persist, they indicate an underlying problem that requires attention.

Recognizing these signs is only the first step. Elaine encourages parents, guardians, and educators to take action by starting conversations early, listening without judgment, and creating safe spaces for teens to share their feelings.

Consulting mental health professionals for assessment and guidance is also crucial. Schools can support teens by implementing mental health programs and offering counseling resources. The sooner interventions are implemented, the better the chances of preventing small struggles from developing into serious issues.

By understanding the 5 D’s, caregivers can help teens navigate adolescence with greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being. Awareness, early action, and consistent support make all the difference in guiding young individuals toward a healthier, balanced life.