Many teens struggle with mental health. But they can be connected to help and support through digital tools like crisis lines and telehealth.
Youth should know that asking for help is a sign of strength. They can also learn how to manage emotions and promote positive relationships with peers.
Mental health disorders
A mental health disorder is an illness that affects your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. It can cause serious problems such as anxiety, depression or psychosis (losing touch with reality).
Some people are more at risk of mental illnesses than others. These include adolescents living in humanitarian and fragile settings; those with a chronic illness such as epilepsy; those in early or forced marriages; orphans; and those from minority ethnic or sexual groups.
Mental health disorders often go hand in hand with other risks like drug use, violence and higher-risk sexual behaviours that lead to unintended pregnancy and HIV. Prevention strategies that help youth feel connected to school and family can protect their mental health. They can also strengthen their ability to regulate emotions, build resilience and explore alternatives to risky behaviours. Medicines like antidepressants, mood stabilisers and psychotropic medicines can ease symptoms of mental illnesses. Other therapies include group and individual counselling, psychosocial interventions, occupational therapy, and behavioural interventions.
Suicide
Suicide is a serious risk for adolescents. It is the second leading cause of death among teens ages 10-14, and the third leading cause of suicide for teenagers ages 15-to-24. During adolescence, youth experience a variety of stresses including a lack of family support, relationships problems, bullying, financial difficulties and academic challenges. Teens with mental illness are at a higher risk of suicide, especially depression, and may find it difficult to express their feelings.
It is important for parents and other adults to recognize the warning signs of suicide in youths. When a child or teen has thoughts of suicide, they must be seen by a mental health professional right away. To help a teen in crisis, there are toll-free suicide hotlines and online resources. Those who have attempted suicide are at high risk of taking their lives again, so follow-up care is essential. Fortunately, evidence-based programs are available in schools and other community settings that can reduce suicide risk factors.
Depression
Depressed teenagers are often irritable and angry, may get into trouble at school, and frequently have co-occurring anxiety or substance abuse. They may also not recognize that they are depressed or refuse to seek help. Symptoms of depression can include low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, or feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. Some teenagers have a genetic tendency toward depression; however, it can also be triggered by stress, loss, or certain medications (including some over-the-counter drugs).
Encourage your teen to talk about their feelings with someone they trust—such as a family member, friend, or teacher. If they are reluctant to seek help, suggest that they visit a doctor for an assessment and treatment plan. Psychological therapy teaches skills to manage stress and change negative thinking patterns; some teens may be prescribed medication as well. In addition, promote healthy nutrition and adequate sleep—teens need 9-10 hours per night of sleep to function at their best. Encourage participation in community activities, such as volunteering, which can be a great mood booster.
Anxiety
While some anxiety is normal, especially when kids are worried about schoolwork or their friends’ health, if it becomes persistent, severe and long-lasting it can be diagnosed as an anxiety disorder. It can also cause physical reactions like a pounding heart, sweating or difficulty concentrating.
Adolescents who experience these symptoms should see a mental health professional, because anxiety is treatable. Kids and teens who get treatment can overcome anxiety, but it may take time and patience to find the right approach for them. While it can be hard to know what to look for because anxiety looks different from kid to kid, signs can include avoiding activities or being irritable or complaining of stomachaches. Kids and teens may also start having panic attacks or fearing social situations, such as public speaking or being in close proximity to others. These types of anxieties are called phobias. They can be treated with therapy and anti-anxiety medications. The good news is that the latest treatments are effective.