Today, teenagers are dealing with mental health issues more than ever before. Many experts believe this decline started during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when lockdowns and social isolation began. Since then, many teens have been struggling with depression and other mental health problems. This has raised concerns for both experts and parents. It seems like this situation is becoming the new normal, but it shouldn’t be. Mental Health is very important, just as much as your physical health, which is why you should pay attention to yourself and others for the signs that something may be wrong. Some signs go unnoticed. But many turn a blind eye to the ones who need help, mistaking their struggles with other things, such as school or work. Often, Mental Health has grown to stereotypes; adults impersonate how a person acts based on symptoms, but each mental illness is different. Along with the cause, it’s different for every person.
Mental Health is very important, just as much as your physical health, which is why you should pay attention to yourself and others for the signs that something might be wrong some signs go unnoticed. But many turn a blind eye to the ones who need help, mistaking their struggles with other things, such as school or work. Often, Mental Health has grown to stereotypes; adults impersonate how a person acts based on symptoms, but each mental illness is different. Along with the cause, it’s different for every person.
Dr. Sally Robinson, who is a MD Clinical Professor for The University of Texas Medical Branch, states in the article “Mental Health Problems on the Rise for Today’s Teens” that “Today’s teenagers are having an especially hard time with an increased incidence of mental illness seemingly linked to the pandemic and to social media.” showing what could be the main problem to the possible epidemic of teens put in a point of self isolation. The lockdown means no one is allowed to leave the house unless it is necessary. Even when teens interacted with kids during online school. It can still leave teens feeling isolated and alone. However, with loneliness being a main cause of depression and anxiety, it can be concerning.
In the article “U.S. teens need far more emotional and social support” Kirsten Weir, the Coordinator for the American Psychological Association, states, “The kids who are not getting that boost of support may be those who need it most. Girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and kids of color report some of the highest rates of mental health difficulties, according to the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey.” This display of results shows the emotional state of people of different genders and communities.
In some aspects, experts even claimed that social media was one of the big factors in the rise of mental health issues in teens. According to the article “Teens, Social Media and Mental Health” it says that teens are growing more aware of social media. Half of teens who would 48% say that social media had a negative impact on people their age, which in 2022 was 32%. However 14% think that social media affected them personally.
We need to pay more attention than ever to the mental health of teens. The community, families, and friends must come together and recognize the importance of our support for those who are struggling. Whether it’s encouraging social interaction or helping them focus on their well-being, these efforts can make a significant difference and help them feel less alone.
