Beware of Sudden Behavioural Changes in Children, They Could Signal Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents

Sudden behavioural changes in adolescents are not merely normal pubertal dynamics, but can be an early signal of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The Indonesian Paediatric Society (Ikatan Dokter Anak Indonesia, IDAI) is urging parents to be sensitive to these emotional transitions in order to prevent long-term harm.

Data from the Indonesia National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS) underscores the urgency of this issue: 15.5 million, or one in three, Indonesian adolescents aged 10–17 experience mental health problems. Angga Wirahmadi, a member of IDAI’s Task Force on Growth, Development and Social Paediatrics, stated that anxiety and depression are the disorders that most frequently affect this age group.

Speaking at a media seminar on Tuesday (21 July 2026), Angga explained that adolescence is a highly complex phase involving three main factors.

Parents need to watch for signs that are often subtle. Symptoms of depression include losing interest in hobbies, fatigue, low self-esteem and reduced appetite. Meanwhile, symptoms of anxiety are marked by overthinking, restlessness and physical complaints such as a racing heart and stomach aches.

The most crucial indicator is a decline in daily functioning.

“If there is a sudden emotional or behavioural change without any clear cause, or if it affects functioning — refusing to go to school, not eating, or even being reluctant to bathe — the child should be referred immediately,” Angga stressed.

Early detection is the key, as adolescent mental health problems often resemble an iceberg. The right approach from parents and medical professionals is needed to uncover hidden psychosocial problems before they develop into more serious conditions.