In addition to the normal challenges of childhood and adolescence, many youth have serious mental health needs. Yet they face a system that often doesn’t meet their needs.
Things that can trigger a crisis in teens include: substance abuse, running away from home, and technology addictions like gaming and social media overuse.
1. Mental Health Issues
Many factors can affect mental health, including genetics, trauma and social conditions. Societal concerns such as gun violence, climate change, economic instability and poverty can contribute to stress and anxiety. Abuse, neglect and other childhood trauma can also make young people more vulnerable to mental health issues.
Adolescents experiencing mental health challenges are at higher risk for dangerous behaviors that can include substance use, attempting suicide and engaging in high-risk sexual activity. Prevention strategies that promote good mental health and help youth feel connected to school and family can lower those risks.
Feinberg researchers are working to create scalable interventions that can be delivered in a single visit, like a video chat or text. Be on the lookout for any changes in your child’s mood, as well as if they are withdrawing from social or family activities or seem depressed.
2. Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a complex issue for many teens and it can impact their health, emotions and relationships. Abusing drugs and alcohol creates physical dependency, often leading to a substance use disorder (SUD).
SUD can also worsen mental health symptoms. Adolescents who have a mental health disorder like ADHD, mood disorders or autism spectrum disorders, and/or ACEs are at greater risk of escalating to substance abuse or developing a SUD.
Many teen and young adult people with SUDs started using drugs in their adolescence. Those who use drugs at a higher rate are at increased risk of sex-related issues, criminal justice involvement, problems at school and poorer health outcomes. Some substances, such as opioids, are particularly dangerous for youth and can cause overdoses. They are often mixed with other substances and can lead to addiction, if not treated early.
3. Trauma
Trauma can be caused by many things, such as accidents, emotional abuse, living through a natural disaster or war. Some people experience trauma more than others, depending on their age and other factors.
Traumatic experiences can lead to a variety of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, insomnia, or feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Some of these symptoms are long-term, while others may be short-lived. Trauma can also impact relationships with family members and friends, which can have lasting effects.
Fortunately, treatment is available. A mental health professional can provide psychotherapy, which helps someone understand the causes of their trauma and learn coping skills. They can also provide methods like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to help with traumatic memories. In addition, it is important to connect with others in a safe and supportive environment.
4. Relationship Issues
Teens in crisis can experience a wide range of emotional and behavioral changes. Occasional mood swings, irritability, and withdrawal are normal for teens; however, if these behaviors persist, it’s important to seek professional help.
Oftentimes, relationship issues in teens are a symptom of underlying mental health problems. These can include feelings of worthlessness or guilt, suicidal thoughts, and a lack of hope for the future.
Other signs of a mental health crisis in teens can be found in aggressive or violent behavior, self-harm, and substance abuse. In addition, a lack of interest in friends or hobbies can be a warning sign that something is wrong. Teens in crisis need to be encouraged to reach out to their loved ones for support. If they’re unable to find this support, it can lead to isolation, which is one of the worst things for a teen’s mental health.
5. Bullying
Bullying is harmful and can impact a person’s mental health. It can include physical attacks, verbal taunts or cyberbullying. These behaviors erode self-esteem and can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression. It can also affect academic performance.
Adolescence is a time when the importance of peers in terms of belonging and status is heightened, and peer victimization can be particularly problematic (Stapinski, Araya, Heron, Montgomery & Stallard, 2015).
Being bullied can leave you feeling depressed, alone and angry. It can cause you to stop participating in social activities or hanging out with friends. This isolation can make it difficult to seek help for a mental health issue. If you are being bullied or know someone who is, talk to us. You can text CONNECT to 741741 or call our Crisis Line 24/7.