World Teen Mental Wellness Day

This World Teen Mental Wellness Day, let us believe in breaking the stigma around adolescent mental health, for it is a crucial step in empowering the youth to embrace their mental well-being and seek the support they need to thrive

Tom Huynh, Insomnia (Source: Pinterest)

At a tender impressionable age, in the dinghies of puberty, sits an anxious kid trying to decipher the uncanny world. It is in the hollow daydreamer’s window and the wave of helplessness that mental health disorders breed and turn into debilitating sights. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 20% of adolescents are affected by mental health disorders. In the United States, one in five teenagers has a mental health disorder, and suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals between the ages of 10 and 24. According to a systematic review, psychiatric illnesses affect 23.3% of school-aged children and adolescents and 6.5% of the general population. India has the highest rate of youth suicide in the world, and among this demographic, suicide is the predominant cause of death. These statistics highlight the importance of addressing mental health issues in teenagers and ensuring that they have access to appropriate support and resources.

World Teen Mental Wellness Day is an annual event that takes place on March 2 and is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health among teenagers. It is imperative to understand that psychotic disorders are now a common sight and have a multitude of reasons

The causes of mental health issues among teenagers are complex and can vary from person to person. The most common risk factors include stress, bullying, trauma, and family conflict. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the stress and anxiety levels of young adults with the isolation and loss of normalcy caused by lockdowns and social distancing measures. While the COVID spike has subsided, the impact of isolation during the pandemic has left a grave mark on youngsters—they have faced immense challenges dealing with parental pressure, lack of privacy, and an absolute dearth of validation for their individual emotions. Social media, while also being an empowering tool for some, has managed to seep deep into the youngsters' psyche and has managed to breed insecurities in no time.

In addition to raising awareness about the importance of mental health among teenagers, World Teen Mental Wellness Day also aims to educate young people and their families and communities about the signs of mental health issues and the resources available to help. This includes providing information about the various forms of treatments available, such as therapy, counseling, and medication, as well as promoting self-care strategies that can help them manage stress and improve their mental well-being. To much sorrow, mental health care is not universally accessible for all individuals today. Cost and location are two major factors that can affect access to it. Access to mental health care is often limited in rural and low-income areas, where mental health providers are scarce. Moreover, marginalized communities may face additional hurdles such as discrimination, lack of cultural competency, and language barriers.

It's important to remember that each young mind is unique and their experiences with anxiety may be different. It is time we destigmatize mental health and assist in seeking help for young adults with empathy and understanding. It's also important to recognize that youngsters may need professional help and to encourage them to seek it. With the right support, children and youth with mental disorders can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.