Youth are often at the forefront of social movements, denouncing injustices and demanding changes. However, they are also highly vulnerable and can be easily manipulated.
Provide young people with facts in ways and language appropriate to their age and emotional development. Help them to vet information and watch out for the spread of misinformation.
1. Suicide
Suicide is a complex issue for many teens. It includes thoughts about wanting to die, or suicidal ideas, as well as trying to kill yourself with actions, called suicidal behaviors. Teens ages 10 to 24 are at highest risk for suicide, and boys take their lives at four times the rate of girls. They also abuse substances and use firearms more often than other methods of suicide. The suicide rates among youth ages 10 to 24 have been climbing since 2007, and they are higher for certain groups of young people.
Some of the reasons for the increase include loss, such as a relationship breakup or death in the family, and underlying psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Other factors include bullying, which can be a serious form of emotional abuse, and social media.
2. Drugs
Substance use can harm the body and brain, making people less able to think clearly and react quickly. It also puts people at risk for unprotected sex, accidents, and violence. Kids and teens may try drugs to fit in with a group of friends, because they are curious, or because they want to feel good. Drugs can make them feel better for a short time, but they do not fix the underlying problem or prevent future problems.
People with addictions spend a lot of time buying and using their drug of choice, often missing work or school to do so. They may also have legal issues, like stealing to get money to buy drugs or driving while under the influence.
Preventive programs can help. These typically include short, nonjudgmental conversations about substance use and consequences, backed up by research-based tools such as motivational interviewing.
3. Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can be a terrifying experience, and even a single incident can have lasting effects. Some of these effects can include sleep problems, feelings of numbness, reliving events through nightmares or having panic attacks.
Children and adults of all ages, genders, and backgrounds can be victims of sexual violence or abuse. In many cases, it is a family member who perpetrates the abuse. It can also be a neighbor, friend of a family member, school staff, a coach, medical professional or spiritual advisor.
Often, non-offending parents are shocked to learn of the abuse and are in denial. However, studies show that when families are given support, the child’s mental health outcomes improve significantly. Children who report abuse should be seen by a trained clinician, who can help them cope and find safety and healing.
4. Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive behavior used to maintain power and control over another person. It can take many forms, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse. It can also be economic, which means the perpetrator controls access to money and other resources. Domestic violence can affect women and men, all ages, races and socioeconomic groups.
Teenagers who witness domestic violence often internalize the abuse and blame themselves for the situation. They may also experience a range of behavioral challenges like anxiety and depression and suffer from psychological trauma.
Providing teenagers with safe spaces to discuss their feelings can help them break the cycle of abuse and regain confidence in their abilities. It is also important to encourage open communication and access to therapy and counselling services.
5. Mental Health Issues
Young people can be especially vulnerable to mental health concerns. In a 2021 report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 42% of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness; while 22% had seriously considered suicide. Youths from marginalized communities can also face unique stressors. For example, Black youths are more likely to be affected by violence and poverty, while those with limited access to food can struggle with hunger-related mental health concerns.
Social determinants of health, including economic stability, housing, and availability of healthcare, can further impact a young person’s ability to cope with and seek treatment for mental disorders. It’s important for adults to listen actively and without judgement when a youth is struggling, and to ensure they feel safe asking for help.