Teenage mental health is very important and it is time to break the stigma. It is normal for adolescents to experience mood changes as they develop and mature. It is common for children to experience anxiety about school or experience short periods of depression perhaps from a failed test or an upsetting argument with their peers. It is when anxiety and depressive symptoms continue for longer than six weeks, that is when you should seek professional assistance.
While most adolescents are healthy, statistics show that one in every four to five youth meet criteria for a potentially lifelong mental disorder. As with physical health, your mental health is extremely important and includes good emotional health and wellness in all areas of your life.
Mental health and involves being able to navigate successfully through difficult areas of life to you can:
- develop fulfilling relationships
- adapt to change
- utilize appropriate coping mechanisms to achieve well-being without discrimination
- realize your potential
- have your needs met
- develop skills to adapt to new environments
Protective and risk factors contribute to the mental health of everyone, especially young people, and efforts can be undertaken to promote positive mental health. These protective factors can prevent or minimize mental health problems. Young adults who have mental health disorders may face challenges in their homes, school, community, and interpersonal relationships.
Despite these risk factors most people with mental health concerns need to realize that most of these disorders are not permanent. Most teenage mental health disorders can be successfully treated with mental health therapy, peer support groups and services, and a supportive social support network. Reach out today, to Sobair Mental Health if you live in PA or OH. You can book an immediate therapy session if you simply click here.
Teenage Mental Health Warning Signs
Teenage mental health is important and teens have many risk factors so, it is important to seek assistance for themselves and their family. If you are concerned about the well-being of your friend or family member discuss the issue with a trusted family member, friend, school counselor, or doctor/nurse.
Mental health warning signs and behaviors to look for include:
- Marked fall in school performance
- Poor grades in school despite trying very hard
- Severe worry or anxiety, as shown by regular refusal to go to school, changes in sleep patterns, or taking part in activities that are normal for the child’s age
- Frequent physical complaints
- Marked changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
- Extreme difficulties in concentrating that get in the way at school or at home
- Sexual acting out
- Depression shown by sustained, prolonged negative mood and attitude, often accompanied by poor appetite, difficulty sleeping or thoughts of death
- Severe mood swings
- Strong worries or anxieties that get in the way of daily life, such as at school or socializing
- Repeated use of alcohol and/or drugs
Teenage Mental Health Treatment Options
Teenage mental health therapy is easily available, and you can find an online therapist or in-person therapist near you. The services provided depend on your needs. They may consist of services such as psychotherapy with an evidence-based practice, mentoring, hypnotherapy, or a combination of all approaches.
References: https://youth.gov/youth-topics/youth-mental-health