Teens and Adolescents: Mental Health Struggles are Increasing
The Mental Health Crisis in Teens and Adolescents
The teenage years are often seen as a time of life full of joy, growth, and exploration. While this is true, there are also a lot of mental health struggles that come along with adolescence. According to the CDC, suicide rates for teenagers and young adults aged 15 to 24 have been increasing since 2007. Mental health concerns like depression and anxiety are also on the rise among the same age group.
The research surrounding teen and adolescent mental health is important in understanding why these issues are occurring and how to best address them. This article will explore the current research on mental health topics related to teens and adolescents, with a focus on understanding the issues and offering hope for the future.
Current Research Findings
Recent research has found that mental health concerns among teens and adolescents can be linked to a range of factors. One of the main factors is increased stress due to academic pressures and increasing expectations from parents and peers. There is also evidence of a link between social media use, cyberbullying, and mental health struggles. The pressures of identity exploration during the teenage years can also contribute to mental health issues.
Research has also found that there are certain demographic groups that are more at risk for mental health issues than others. For example, adolescents and teens from minority groups, particularly communities of color, are more likely to experience mental health struggles than their white peers. The same is true for teens living in poverty or without access to quality healthcare.
How to Support Mental Health for Teens and Adolescents
Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among teens and adolescents, there is still hope. The first step in addressing mental health concerns is creating an open dialogue about these topics. This means having conversations about mental health with teens and adolescents in order to normalize these topics and reduce any stigma surrounding them.
It is also important to provide resources to teens and adolescents in order to support their mental health. Access to quality healthcare, mental health professionals, and social services are all important in helping young people get the support they need. Education on topics like coping skills, self-care, and stress reduction can also be incredibly helpful.
Finally, it is important to create an environment of acceptance and understanding for teens and adolescents. This means being supportive of who they are and helping them feel safe to express themselves without judgement or criticism.
Conclusion
Mental health struggles among teens and adolescents are a serious concern that needs to be addressed. Current research has found that these issues are linked to factors such as academic pressure, social media use, cyberbullying, and identity exploration. There are ways to support mental health for teens and adolescents, such as providing resources and creating an environment of acceptance. With the right resources and support, it is possible for teens and adolescents to thrive in spite of these struggles.
At Mindfully Healing in Minnetonka, MN we understand the importance of supporting mental health for teens and adolescents. Our team of professionals are dedicated to helping young people manage their mental health concerns so they can live happy and healthy lives. To find a local therapist, visit our website or call us at (952) 491-9450.
Citations:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Suicide Among Persons Aged 10–24 Years — United States, 2007–2018. Retrieved December 26, 2020 from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6941a1.htm
2. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2020). Mental Health by Race/Ethnicity. Retrieved December 26, 2020 from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Mental-Health-by-Race-Ethnicity
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2016). Mental Health Treatment: Resources for Youth & Adolescents. Retrieved December 26, 2020 from https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/youth-and-young-adults
