Teen mental health is not only a family issue, but a societal issue that demands our collective attention. Parents telling their children that “high school will be one of the best times in your life” has been replaced with fear and worry. 

I spent quite a bit of time researching statistics on this topic, especially percentages in the rise of debilitating depression and anxiety over the last five years. What I found is that every reputable source has a different percentage. 

So, I resolved to the better indicator being; what do we know and see around us? This answer is clear. I don’t know a single person that wouldn’t say that we are in a teen mental health crisis. 

Destigmatizing Mental Health:

Having mental health problems are not a sign of weakness or failure. They are treatable conditions that can be managed and cured with the right support. Society bears a great responsibility in fostering an environment that promotes mental well-being.

How Can You Help? 

Addressing teen mental health requires a collective and multifaceted effort from all. Our children and the next generations deserve to have us step it up. 

Education and awareness in schools:

• Integrate mental health education into school curricula from elementary levels.
• Teach students about emotional well-being, stress management, and seeking help.
• Implement regular teen mental health screenings in schools and healthcare settings.

Community programs: 

• Conduct awareness programs to reduce stigmas and increase understanding.
• Provide easily accessible mental health services in educational and community settings.
• Offer training for healthcare professionals and educators based on the latest research.

No cost community mental health centers: 

• Establish community mental health centers with free counseling and support.
• Encourage major corporations and governments to contribute resources.

Stigma reduction:

• Launch media campaigns challenging stereotypes and debunking myths about teen mental health.
• Share success stories to inspire and break down stigmas.

Parental education and support:

• Provide resources and workshops for parents to understand and support their teenagers. Corporate and government funding can support these initiatives.

Better early intervention and hospitalization options:

• Advocate for changes in laws regarding the lengths of stay and releasing protocols for patients.

New social media norms:

• Encourage parents to establish new norms for social media use, fostering more in-person connections and engagement in activities.

Mental health support and policies within the workplace: 

• Implement workplace policies prioritizing employee mental health and well-being.

Legislation: 

• Consider enacting and enforcing legislation protecting the rights and well-being of individuals with mental health conditions.

Through collaborative efforts, society can reverse the teen mental health crisis. It requires a commitment to education, awareness, destigmatization, and tangible support structures. Together, we can build a healthier future for our youth.

Resources

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

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