Teen Mental Health And You

Medically reviewed by Julie Dodson, MA, LCSW
Updated October 15, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include suicide, substance use, or abuse which could be triggering to the reader.
Support is available 24/7. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

Growing up can be challenging. As a teen, you may feel like life changes quickly, with little control over what happens to you. You might feel stressed by new life challenges, such as increased schoolwork, social pressures, and thinking about who you want to be in the world. In some cases, these complicated feelings can be damaging to mental health.

There are a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms that can affect young people. According to the WHO, depressive disorders, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), eating disorders, and mood disorders are the most common in adolescence.

Whether you are struggling with mental health or are looking for ways to prevent mental health issues from compromising your ability to thrive, it’s important to understand which mental disorders you may be prone to, adopt healthy coping strategies, and seek support when necessary.

iStock/FG Trade
Are you the parent of a struggling teen?

Understanding teen mental health disorders

Young people often deal with a unique set of academic and social pressures, which can result in new and often difficult feelings. At the same time, they may be exploring their personal identity, learning to navigate life with more independence, and experiencing the physical effects of puberty. As a result, adolescence is often associated with the emergence of mental health problems.

It is important for parents and teens alike to recognize the symptoms and warning signs of common mental health disorders.

Types of mental health conditions that can affect older children and teenagers

Many of the mental health conditions that can affect adults can affect adolescents as well. Examples include:

  • Depressive disorders: This includes major depressive disorder and dysthymia. Depression is characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and feelings of worthlessness.
  • Anxiety disorders: These are common in teens and often include generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety. Symptoms often involve excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches.
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a form of neurodivergence characterized by difficulties in maintaining attention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsive behavior.
  • Eating disorders: Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder often begin during adolescence. Eating disorders involve serious issues surrounding food, eating, and body image.
  • Bipolar disorder: This disorder is characterized by severe mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Can develop after exposure to a traumatic event and involves symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and increased anxiety.
  • Substance use disorders: Teens often experiment with alcohol and drugs. In some cases, substance use can escalate into binging, harder substances, or dependence.

Risk factors for mental health conditions in teenagers

Mental health challenges often begin during adolescence, and being aware of which, if any, mental issues you may be at risk for can help you become more proactive about maintaining good habits related to mental health. Risk factors can include:

  • Genetics: If you have a family history of mental health issues, you may be more prone to developing them.
  • Environment: Stressful life circumstances, unstable households, and exposure to trauma or abuse can contribute to the development of mental health issues.
  • Biological factors: Changes in the brain and body that occur during adolescence can make teens more vulnerable to mental health disorders.
  • Social factors: Issues like social isolation, poor peer relationships, and academic pressures can also play a role.
  • Substance Use: Early use of alcohol and drugs can negatively affect the developing brain and increase the risk of mental health disorders.

Suicide prevention in young people

As mentioned above, one of the consequences of the youth mental health crisis is a rise in suicide and attempted suicide rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teens and young adults (aged 10–34) as of 2023. Suicide rates are especially high among youth of color and LGBTQ+ youth due to lived experiences of stigmatization and prejudice. 

Youth suicide prevention in communities

There are many things communities and governments can do to try and prevent suicide in young people. Some examples include:

  • Making mental health care affordable and available for all
  • Taking action in schools toward addressing bullying
  • Working to destigmatize mental health
  • Promoting social connection for strong, supportive schools, neighborhoods, and communities
  • Equipping youth with skills for managing emotions and caring for mental health

Managing stress and maintaining mental health in adolescence

Whether you are diagnosed with a mental health condition or want to improve your mental health overall, you may benefit from adopting some healthy coping strategies for managing the pressures of adolescence.

Coping skills are behavioral or lifestyle practices that you can use to improve overall physical and mental health. These strategies can help you manage stress, reduce symptoms of mental health disorders, and enhance your ability to navigate the daily challenges of adolescence more effectively.

Practice self-care

Self-care can be any activity that improves mental or physical health. They may be enjoyable activities you weave into your day or week, such as walking, journaling, meditation, or pursuing a creative outlet. 

Get exercise

Physical activity can be a crucial aspect of mental health self-care, as it releases endorphins and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, and improve overall mood. Try to find a fun and enjoyable way of moving your body, whether that’s through sports, dancing, hiking, yoga, or any other form of exercise that you find engaging and fulfilling.

Practice self-soothing strategies

If you struggle with anxiety, it may also be worth looking into self-soothing strategies. Studies show that one method of relieving panic is exposure to cold water. Splashing cold water on your face, taking a cold shower, or going for a swim can reset your nervous system and help alleviate symptoms of anxiety or panic. It also helps to activate and develop the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for self-control.

In most cases, forming self-care strategies as a teen may be critical as you become a young adult. If you’re unsure how to start, try a YouTube video list or take inspiration from other articles. Ask a friend what they do when they feel stressed—you might find some new ideas. 

Getty

Build a support system

Studies show that social interaction is essential for mental health and includes the mental health of teens, children, and adults. If you struggle to make friends, consider joining a club with fellow high school students with similar interests. It can be normal to have interests outside of social norms. Finding friends who relate and are concerned about your well-being can feel comforting if you like a certain book, movie, TV show, or topic. 

Limit time on social media to reduce stress

Social media has been repeatedly suggested by research to increase stress and the chances of other mental health challenges, particularly among teenagers. For example, one study indicates that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more than twice as likely to experience negative mental health outcomes. Limiting your time on social media, following accounts that promote positivity and self-care, and avoiding comparing yourself to others may all be helpful.

Increase moments of joy in your life

During your teenage years, you may feel pressured by peers to try a drug, alcohol, or other activity you may not feel comfortable about. However, your interests may not align with these individuals. Whatever you are doing, try to increase moments of happiness and passion in your life. 

For example, just because you liked playing soccer as a kid doesn’t mean you have to keep acting like you like playing it. Though physical activity and social clubs can be a way for teens to engage with each other, you may not want to continue if you don’t enjoy them. If you want to, try something new. If you are interested in a new style, type of makeup, or fandom, consider leaning into it. 

You may find it challenging to include your passions in your responsibilities. At times, increased responsibility is a way for teens to prepare for adult life. Time management strategies can assist you in being able to include both fun and responsibility into your schedule. It may take time to find a routine that works for you, but continuing to prioritize your mental well-being could give you the tools to feel happier in your life. 

Communicate your needs around mental health

Some adolescents struggle with social, school, and home life due to a learning disability or mental health condition that impacts functioning. Autistic teens, those with a psychiatric diagnosis of ADHD or dyslexia, teens with a disability, and adolescents who experience a mental health condition may feel isolated from their peers. 

Let your caregiver and support team know if you have unique needs at school or home. Your counselor or an assistant professor at school may be able to advocate for you to have an individual care plan put into place, such as an educational support plan, executive functioning support team, or a 504 plan.

Explore accommodations for teen mental health disorders at school

Accommodations are available at school and someday in the workplace. Talk to your parents about how to get documentation for this process and why you think it would benefit you. 

Common accommodations for teens may include: 

  • Extended time on tests
  • A separate quiet or dark room to take tests or complete homework during school hours
  • Assistive technology devices for tests or note-taking
  • The ability to leave class to meet with a school counselor at any time
  • The ability to use the bathroom when needed without penalty
  • Extended time on homework
  • The ability to do a presentation in front of a small audience or just the teacher
  • Closer seating in class
  • Excused absences for mental or physical health needs
  • Modified educational materials
  • An educational support team, such as a case manager
  • Adjusted grading or class schedules 
Getty
Are you the parent of a struggling teen?

Counseling options for older children and teens

As a teen, you may experience increased pressure, stress, or anxiety. If you’re living with a mental health condition or experiencing any distressing symptoms or thoughts of suicide, consider asking your parents if you can talk to a doctor, counselor, or pediatric health provider. 

Severe or persistent mental health symptoms typically require seeking mental health services, which can involve talk therapy, psychiatric drugs, or support from mental health professionals like psychologists, psychiatrists, or counselors. For busy teens, an online counseling platform like TeenCounseling may be worth considering. 

For teens or young adults over 18, other platforms like BetterHelp are available to offer more support to you. Additionally, studies show that mindfulness-based online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with a clinical psychologist can effectively treat anxiety and depression. 

Takeaway

Being a teenager can feel challenging, and various mental health conditions and emotional difficulties may arise. By doing your best to implement healthy habits and staying open with loved ones about your emotional state, you may find ways to safeguard your mental health and improve your ability to enjoy life. Should you desire help in improving your mental health or your teen's mental health, reach out to a licensed counselor or therapist.
Learn to cope with the challenges of adolescence
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
Get the support you need from one of our therapistsGet started