risk factors for mental illness in children refer to the shaping of their thought processes, their resilience and ability to cope, and their interpretations of life events. It may result from the early relationships with parents and caregivers, or interaction with nature and social environment, as well as the presence or absence of stressful events over the course of their childhood. These factors include low self-esteem, poor body image, a tendency to be highly self-critical, and feeling helpless when dealing with negative events. Teen mental disorders are somewhat associated with the stress of body changes, as well as teen ambivalence toward increased independence, and with changes in their relationships with parents, peers, and others. Teenagers who suffer from conduct disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), clinical anxiety, or who have cognitive and learning problems, as well as trouble relating to others are at higher risk of also developing another mental disorder.
