The National Institute of Mental Health just published a study that lists the signs that a teenager may be at risk of developing a full-blown mental illness like schizophrenia. Some of the indicators include "deteriorating social functioning (for example, spending increasing amounts of time alone in one’s room, doing nothing); increase in suspicion/paranoia (such as suspicion of being followed); and past or current drug abuse."

Um. Is it just me or does that sound like every teen I have ever known?

Researchers did go on to say that it is these factors plus a few other indicators like family history, a buzzing sound that never goes away and "fleeting images that disappear with a second glance" more than likely mean that a psychotic episode is immanent. With teens, these indicators are quickly followed by a break with reality so early diagnoses becomes extra important.

In short, this study may make it less challenging to get help for a kid who is in desperate need of it -- as well as offering assurances that most teens aren't clinically ill despite outward appearances.