Mental health among teens: Address anxiety, depression, eating disorders in teenagers

Mental health issues among teenagers are increasingly common nowadays. Whether it is anxiety or eating disorders, self-image-related issues, or ADHD, teens today navigate complex environments that can impact their mental well-being.

From academic pressures to social media influences, family conflicts and concerns about their future, adolescents face unique challenges during this stage of life and it’s important for you, as parents and caregivers, to understand these challenges.

Encouraging open communication at home, listening without judgement and educating yourself about mental heath are important steps towards helping your if they are struggling.

Here’s a look at common mental health issues among teens and practical ways to support them.

• Anxiety disorders

Don’t ignore your teen’s complains of headaches or stomachaches. They may be experiencing these physical symptoms of anxiety, along with other symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, irritability and difficulty concentrating.

Academic pressures, social fears, family conflicts, and concerns about the future can all contribute to anxiety, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

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• Depression

If you notice your child being persistently sad and irritable, see that they have lost interest in any activities, and you find them feeling tired all the time, it may be because they are depressed. Your teen may also have thoughts of self-harm. Depression can be caused due to hormonal changes, traumatic experiences, or genetics, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

• Eating disorders

Your teen may become obsessively focus on their body weight, may either practice restricted eating or binge eating, start exercising excessively, and start developing a distorted body image. The American Psychological Association highlights that eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder could be caused due to societal pressures, low self-esteem, and mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD has a strong genetic component, though environmental factors can exacerbate symptoms, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms include difficulty focusing, being impulsive or hyperactive, and struggling with organization and time management.

• Substance abuse

Teens may turn to substances to cope with stress, peer pressure, or mental health struggles, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. You may notice changes in behaviour, secretive actions, poor academic performance, and loss of interest in usual activities.

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• Self-harm and suicidal ideation

Self-harm is often a way for teens to cope with overwhelming emotions, and suicidal ideation can stem from feelings of hopelessness or isolation, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Don’t be alarmed if your kid shows symptoms of self-injury (like cutting or burning), withdrawal from loved ones, expressing hopelessness, or talking about self-harm.

How to address teen mental health issues

• Create open communication: Encourage your teen to come to you to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. Let them know they can talk to you about anything, even uncomfortable topics without getting reprimanded.

• Promote a balanced routine: It’s important to create a daily routine that includes schoolwork, physical activity, socializing, and relaxation. Studies indicate that structure and routine can provide stability and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

• Educate yourself and your teen about mental health: Mental health education has been found to improve resilience and reduce stigma among teens. Educating both yourself and your teen about mental health can demystify it and reduce any stigma around it.

• Encourage physical activity: Research from Harvard Health supports physical activity as an effective way to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Even a simple 20-minute walk can release endorphins, which naturally improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Limit social media and screen time: Encourage your teen to balance online activities with offline ones. A study from the American Psychological Association found that limiting social media time can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents.

• Foster strong peer connections: Positive peer connections are linked to better mental health outcomes in adolescents, according to the World Health Organization Help your teen nurture positive relationships with friends by allowing time for healthy socialisation.

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• Teach stress-relief techniques: Research indicates that mindfulness-based practices reduce stress and improve emotional regulation in adolescents. Help your teen learn stress-relief techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and journaling to improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety.

• Encourage professional support if needed: If you notice persistent signs of mental health struggles, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counsellor, or psychologist.

• Be patient and supportive: Recovery and mental health management take time. Be patient with your teen as they work through challenges, and remind them that progress doesn’t happen overnight.

• Encourage a positive self-image: Help your teen build confidence and a healthy self-image by encouraging activities that emphasise their strengths, like volunteering, art, sports, or academics. Building self-esteem through positive self-image activities has been shown to improve resilience in adolescents, according to the American Psychological Association.

When to seek immediate help

If your teen shows signs of severe depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or any behaviour that indicates they may harm themselves or others, seek professional help immediately. In some cases, a psychiatrist or crisis intervention service may be necessary to ensure their safety.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.