For kids going through the hormonal transition into adulthood, it can be a whirlwind. “Teens tend to go through normal aches and strife, because their bodies are changing. They’re in an environment that has a lot of new social things they have to deal with and learn how to figure out,” says Lee Physician Group Family Practitioner, Dr. Avery Wright.

That change can also signal bouts of frustration and irritability. But when teens start alienating themselves, changing their eating or sleeping patterns, that could be a sign of depression. “When you start to see things that don’t make sense, that’s when you start looking into depression, anxiety, drug use, that stuff all rolls together, promiscuous sex, things like that,” adds Dr. Wright.

In fact, there’s been an increase in teen depression cases around the country. So, what’s a parent to do? Dr. Wright says talking to the children should be the first step. “You want to talk to your kids. I mean, you’ve got to open up the communication so you have an idea. How is school going? Not just the grades; how are the friends? Who are their friends?” explains Dr. Wright.

Be candid. “Honesty is honestly the best thing to do with them. Tell them why you are asking and lay it out on the table, try not to play games, no, they are not always going to appreciate this. No, they aren’t always going to tell you where they are going, that’s normal.”

Dr. Wright adds having a medical checkup can also help. The doctor can assess not just the teen’s physical health but emotional health and recommend the best solution.