Psychologists have been working to elevate and expand the national conversation about youth mental health. They are addressing structural contributors to the current crisis while improving clinical training and capacity.
They are focusing on raising awareness and dispelling myths, misconceptions, and stigma about mental health. They are also advocating for better service development and funding.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a time of change and challenges. It is a period of growth and development, but also a time of increased risk for mental health problems. These disorders can cause significant emotional and social impairment, as well as lead to self-harm or suicide.
Mental health problems during adolescence can take many forms, including internalising and externalising problems. Common internalising problems include anxiety, shyness or experiences of rejection, brooding or excessive worrying and feelings of depression. Externalising problems can include motor restlessness, high levels of distractibility, attention and concentration problems and aggressive, disobedient and rule-breaking behaviour up to and including delinquency.
Mental health issues in adolescence can be prevented with early recognition, appropriate treatment and care coordination. Obstetrician-gynecologists can help reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with adolescent mental health disorders by screening for and treating them as needed.
Addictions
Addictions are a common issue that can have profound effects on youth mental health. They can make it difficult for young people to find or use mental health services, which may be too expensive or inaccessible. They also have a negative impact on the community, and can contribute to poor school performance and other social issues.
The prefrontal cortex of the brain is still developing during adolescence, which can increase the risk of drug use and addiction. Exposure to drugs at this time can cause long-lasting changes in the brain that make it harder to control one’s emotions and behaviors.
Many states are taking action to address this issue. Governors, policymakers, and others are working to reduce stigma, improve access to mental health care, and support young people in their communities.
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying can be a serious problem for middle school students, and it can have lasting effects on their mental health. It can include anything from threatening someone with harm to stalking them online and exposing personal information. This can be done on any website or messaging system that allows public and private comments. It can also be done through doxing, which involves revealing private information such as addresses, social security numbers, credit card details and links to private accounts.
Bullying can lead to a host of psychological and physical problems, including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. It can also affect a victim’s ability to participate in activities that they enjoy. This can result in school absenteeism and academic difficulties. It can also lead to a sense of loneliness and isolation from family and friends.
Street children
Various factors contribute to children living and working on the streets. Some of these factors include poverty, violence and lack of access to basic services. Some of these children are also at risk for exploitation and abuse. Street children are often criminalised by the justice system for begging, vagrancy and commercial sexual exploitation. They are also arrested for so-called ‘status offences’, which are based on their status as street children.
During the interviews, the research team discovered that most street children had family connections but were unable to access their homes. They also lacked adequate food and access to healthcare services. The third theme involved physical health challenges which were exacerbated by lack of money. Among these challenges were poor hygiene, malnutrition and exposure to infectious diseases.
Shelter homes
Youth experiencing homelessness and housing instability face more mental health challenges than their stably housed peers. This is often due to structural barriers such as high costs and inaccessibility to care, as well as fears of mistreatment because of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
Shelter homes can be temporary overnight accommodations for people who need to find permanent housing or other alternatives. These shelters typically provide meals, access to showers and laundry facilities, and case management services. Some offer additional supports like job training and assistance finding employment.
Addressing these barriers is critical for the mental health of young people, including those who live in homeless shelters. This can be done by ensuring that programs rigorously evaluate outcomes and invest in equitable prevention, promotion, and early intervention.