Mood swings. More privacy. Changing friendships. Bigger emotions. Pushing boundaries. So much of adolescence can feel confusing, and as a parent, it can be hard to know what’s simply part of growing up and what might be a sign that your tween or teen needs additional support. In this final episode of our Tweens & Teens series, we bring together HER+ Experts to unpack that very question: How can parents tell the difference between normal adolescent development and signs that their child may need additional support? You’ll hear practical guidance for recognizing when something feels “off,” including how to look beyond a single bad day and pay attention to patterns, changes, duration, intensity, and impairment. We talk about everything from executive functioning and sensory needs to anxiety, confidence, friendships, school struggles, and changes in mood or daily functioning. Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to start supporting your child. Trusting your gut, getting curious instead of critical, tracking what you’re noticing, and seeking help early can make a meaningful difference, for your child and for you. How to recognize the difference between typical teen behavior and a potential red flag by looking at change, duration, impairment, and intensity. What signs may indicate your child is struggling beneath the surface, including shrinking confidence, avoidance, withdrawal, changes in school functioning, sleep, appetite, relationships, or self-care. What you can do before you have all the answers, including how to track patterns, adjust your approach, seek support, and start using strategies that meet your child where they are. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this just a phase, or should I be concerned?” This episode will help you feel more informed, less reactive, and more confident about what to do next. Because you know your child better than anyone—and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. 🎧 Tune in and explore more expert resources inside the HER+ Health Collective community. Featured HER+ Experts: Jill Triana MS, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor, Centerline Counseling Gigi Miller, Productivity Coach, Executive Function Support, Owner of The Organized Life Cassandra Pickett, LMFT, Certified Clini-Coach®, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Coach, Girl You Good? Brittni Winslow, MS, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Owner of Emerge Pediatric Therapy Episode Notes and Resources: Dr. Becky Kennedy - https://www.goodinside.com/ FREE Expert Provider Directory - https://herhealthcollective.com/search-the-directory/?type=fitness HER Circle (A Mom community by HER Health Collective) - https://www.herhealthcollective.com/membership Support Mama Needs a Moment! Become a patron through our Mama Needs a Moment Patreon. HER+ You Tube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@herhealthcollective4278
