According to the World Health Organization, one in seven teens between the ages of 10 and 19 has experienced a mental health disorder. It is crucial to empower teens to prioritize their mental wellness in today’s fast-paced and stressful world. On World Teen Mental Wellness Day and beyond, Xpress Wellness Urgent Care is spotlighting the importance of prioritizing mental wellness among teenagers.
Unique Mental Health Challenges Teens Face
Teens today face a unique set of mental health challenges. While the rise of social media has had many positive impacts on young adults, such as providing social support and an avenue for self-expression, the full effects of social media use on mental wellbeing are still being studied by experts.
With 9 in 10 teens using social media daily, most experts agree that social media use in excess can negatively impact emotional wellbeing when it contributes to social isolation, lack of physical activity, and loss of sleep. Social media platforms often portray unrealistic expectations that can lead to low self-esteem and poor body image in teens. In addition, Pew Research Center reports that a majority of teens have experienced some form of cyberbullying in their time online.
Pressure to excel academically and make important life decisions about their education can fuel feelings of comparison, set unrealistic expectations, and lead to burnout. Many teens experience anxiety related to fitting in with their peers, are navigating complex family dynamics, or are still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These challenges are all interconnected, and the impact on a teen’s mental health can be profound. Understanding these unique struggles is essential for providing the right support, resources, and guidance to help teens navigate this critical stage of life. Below are some ways that parents, educators, and mentors can help support teen mental wellness.
Creating a Safe Space for Communication
Encouraging open, non-judgmental conversations is key. Teens often feel misunderstood or alone in their struggles. Parents, educators, and mentors can create spaces where teens feel comfortable discussing their feelings without fear of criticism. This helps reduce the stigma around mental health and fosters emotional intelligence. Having a strong support system is crucial. Schools can also play a role in fostering a supportive environment by providing access to counselors and mental health resources.
Promoting Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Rather than turning to unhealthy habits like substance use or isolation, teens can be guided to healthier coping mechanisms. These might include:
- Mindfulness practices
- Physical activities they enjoy
- Art or music for emotional expression
- Deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety
By encouraging these habits, teens learn how to handle stress in productive ways.
Encourage a Growth Mindset
Instead of focusing solely on achievements, it’s important to encourage a growth mindset where effort, persistence, and learning from failure are emphasized. Teens who adopt this mindset are more likely to develop resilience, cope with setbacks, and recognize that mental wellness is a journey, not a destination.
Normalize Therapy and Professional Help
Many teens hesitate to seek professional help for mental health concerns due to stigma. By normalizing therapy and other forms of professional support, we can ensure that mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Teens should be made aware that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Promote Self-Care Routines
Mental health and physical health go hand in hand. Encourage the teens in your life to set aside time for activities that bring them joy and replenish their energy. Good sleep hygiene, healthy eating, and hydration are also key components of self-care.
Model Healthy Behavior
Are you modeling healthy coping strategies and attitudes toward mental wellness to set a good example for your teen? It’s normal to feel a diverse range of emotions through different seasons in life, but when teens observe adults taking care of their own mental health, they are more likely to adopt similar practices. As a parent or mentor, practice self-care, communicate openly, and seek help when needed.
Know the Signs
Most importantly, know the warning signs of mental health concerns. Knowing when to seek professional help for your teen’s mental health can be challenging, but it’s important to act if signs of distress persist or worsen. Teach teens about stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges to help them recognize signs in themselves and others, making it easier to seek help before issues become overwhelming.
Mental Wellness Resources
Below are a handful of resources available to support the mental wellness of teens.
- 988 – (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) Call or text 988 for free, confidential support for individuals experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.
- School counselors
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- MHA (Mental Health America)
Our doctors, nurses, and staff at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care are invested in helping you navigate your mental and physical health. If you have reason to believe that there is an immediate threat to your teen’s safety or life, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For your urgent care needs, contact us for information for a virtual visit or come visit one of our locations.
