Addressing the Mental Well-Being of Adolescents
In today’s fast-paced and often stressful world, the mental health of children and teenagers is more crucial than ever. The pressures of academic performance, social dynamics, and the ever-increasing digital world can take a toll on the mental well-being of children and teenagers. Studies have shown an overall decrease in our children’s mental health. In light of this trend, lawmakers, parents, and therapists are coming together to create better mental health resources for the younger generation.
The State of Adolescent Mental Health Today
The state of adolescent mental health today is concerning. Studies show an alarming increase in mental health issues among children and teenagers. The pandemic and its remote learning, limited future opportunities, stress, and stunted social growth exacerbated these factors. Before and after the pandemic saw an increase in:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- ADHD
- Suicidal Ideation
Factors such as academic pressure, social media influence, family dynamics, and biological predispositions all play a role in shaping the mental health of adolescents.
What is being done about it
This trend is not going unnoticed. Therapists, lawmakers, and therapists are coming together to provide better mental health resources and spread mental health awareness in younger populations. Therapists have begun focusing on child and adolescent-focused therapies and encourage kids who are stressed out, overwhelmed, or feeling depressed to seek therapy. Parents are urging lawmakers to allocate greater spending in mental health and school fields, and lawmakers are answering in kind.
For example, Cherry Hill, NJ, had its first-ever inaugural youth mental health summit. This was for both educators and teenagers and “offers a comprehensive platform for discussion, education, and action. With workshops, presentations, and training sessions, attendees will engage in meaningful dialogue and equip themselves with valuable insights.”
In the state of New Jersey, lobbyists are asking lawmakers for an increase of $43 million for the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S) network, a program launched in September to bolster mental health services to students statewide through 15 treatment service hubs.
Finally, in Virginia, new legislation was passed to protect child mental health.
In all of these states, online mental health therapy is becoming increasingly popular to bridge the gap between kids struggling with their mental health and those who are getting the professional help they need and deserve.
How You Can Help Your Teen
As a parent or guardian, there are practical steps you can take to support and help your teen navigate their mental health challenges. Firstly, open lines of communication are vital. Encourage your teen to express their feelings and concerns without judgment. Create a safe space where they feel heard and understood. Additionally, prioritize self-care and wellness activities as a family. Engage in activities together that promote mental well-being, such as mindfulness exercises, outdoor adventures, or creative outlets.
Therapy for Adolescents
Therapy is a powerful tool in addressing adolescent mental health issues. Mental health care providers are increasingly focusing on adolescent therapy to counter the rise in mental health problems among children and teenagers. Therapists trained in working with adolescents understand the unique challenges and needs of this age group. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family therapy, adolescents can learn coping strategies, improve communication skills, and build resilience.
Adolescent therapy provides a safe and confidential space for teens to explore their emotions, identify triggers for their mental health challenges, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Therapists work collaboratively with teens to set goals, track progress, and provide ongoing support throughout the therapeutic process.
Counseling centers like Lifebulb Counseling and Therapy are committed to reversing this downward trend in children’s mental health. They offer specialized child therapists who can meet virtually or in person with your child and help them cope with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more.