1 in every 10 children have depression. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death in 15-24 year olds. And there's more. ADHD, behavioral problems, anxiety issues. It seems as though for parents and families with teens suffering from mental health issues and substance issues, there's no way out. But know that there's always a solution, and this is just that.
Depression and Mood Issues
You've heard this all the time, but the best thing you can do is crowd them with giving space. Yes, it exists. You've heard some people say "leave them alone!" and yet others say "never let them out of your sight." So meet in the middle! Give them space half the time, but leave the door open and do a thorough check in every once in a while, to prevent any serious mood changes or drastic measures taken by them to attempt to "fix" their problems.
Anxiety Disorders
ADHD, OCD, and generic anxiety disorder are all disorders involved with anxiety and nervous behavior Since it's tricky to change those with anxiety disorders in the same fashion as those with other mental health issues (do the opposite of issue Ex. depressed people would spend time doing happy things,bad- behavior-ridden kids would do good deeds, etc.), the best things to do here are exposure and distraction. Exposure is the treatment method of exposing anxious people to what makes them anxious slowly and gradually. For example, a person with OCD should be exposed to germs at home for a few weeks, then germs in public, then germs in New York, all slowly and with gradual steps in between. Distraction is the way of treatment method using distractions to help distract anxious people from what makes them anxious. Stress balls, typing, and keeping hands busy help.
Behavior Issues
This section is tricky. Behavior issues have a mind of their own, as do all mental issues. But these minds have high IQ's. and those with behavior issues often have developed a sense of trickery and a set of ways to get around being caught, The best thing to do here, and with substance abuse 9which is technically a behavior issue) is an intervention. Therapists, family, friends, and even a security guard if the child is out of control. But watch the intensity. A kid who talks back a lot only needs two parents and maybe a third party to give him a stern talking to.
To sum up, every child is different. Every family is different. And every issue and case is different. But families need to be supportive in their child's time of need. Don't punish your child, your family, or yourself. And don't bring negative feelings such as shame or anger into the situation either. It may seem stressful, but it will get better, and there's always a solution.