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Over recent years youth mental health problems have been on the rise. More teens than ever are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. As the field of teenage mental health continues to grow, it’s important to understand what is causing this crisis to heal the root of the problem, rather than just manage their symptoms.
Teen mental health is complex and there is no one specific factor that negatively impacts the mental health of youth. There are many environmental, psychological, and biological factors all at play that influence teen mental health.
Understanding some of the risk factors that influence teen mental health is important for parents to be mindful of so they can provide proper support and intervention.
Academic Stress
Stress from school and academic performance is one of the largest stressors for teens. Academic stress was cited by teens as the number one contributor to their anxiety. This may be caused by pressure from parents, educators, and society to perform well in school.
Although doing well academically is important, parents should be mindful of the level of pressure they put on their teens. If your teen is struggling in school find ways to support their learning rather than being angry or shaming them.
Genetics
Genetics play a large role in mental health. If problems run in the family, it is more likely teens will develop a mental health problem.
If a teen grows up in a stressful environment, certain genes can trigger mental illness. Some of the most common mental health disorders linked to genes include depression, ADHD, and bipolar.
Trauma
Experiencing trauma during childhood and the formative years greatly increases the likelihood of developing mental health problems as a teenager. Trauma can fundamentally change the way the brain perceives experiences. Trauma can be caused by physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, the loss of a loved one, experiencing a medical injury, witnessing domestic violence in the home, school shootings, etc.
Trauma can manifest in several ways such as flashbacks, chronic shame & guilt, depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems. It is important for parents to recognize subtle signs of trauma to intervene and get them proper treatment so it doesn’t interfere with their success in adulthood.
Social Media
Teens today are growing up in a fast-paced digital world with constant connections to others. In many ways this can be positive as it allows teens more access to information and social connection than ever, however, it can also influence their self-image, esteem, and mental health.
Many teens will compare themselves with others on social media, especially influencers who do not show the full context of their lives. Teen girls are especially vulnerable to beauty standards on social media, influencing mental health problems such as eating disorders.
Substance Abuse
Teens may experiment with drugs and alcohol as they explore their independence. Peer pressure, impulsivity, and curiosity can all influence this.
Substance abuse can have an extremely negative impact on the growing brain. Areas that control reward, pleasure, motivation, and decision-making are still being formed. Drug use can stunt this and contribute to mental health and substance abuse disorders.
Poor Sleep
Sleep is extremely important for the growing teen brain and body. Think of the brain as a battery that gets recharged during a night of rest. Lack of sleep can cause problems with focus, increase anxiety, and make teens extra moody.
Teens should be getting about 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Unfortunately many are not. This can cause problems in school and open them up to both physical & mental health problems. Parents should have open conversations with their teens about the importance of sleep and help them develop good sleep hygiene (practicing self-care before bed, shutting down phones 1-2 hours before sleep, creating a consistent bedtime).
Stressful Events
Adverse situations are a normal part of life and in some ways can be healthy as it teaches us how to overcome challenges. However, teens who are not taught proper coping skills or ways to deal with stress may develop mental health problems without support.
It’s helpful for parents to teach their kids how to deal with everyday stress, and also model this themselves. Teach teens that everyday stressors aren´t the end of the world, and encourage them to practice healthy stress reduction techniques. These could include deep breathing, arts or music, getting outside, yoga, listening to music, cuddling a pet, and anything else that helps your teen feel relaxed.
Community Violence
Teens who grow up in communities with high rates of violence or drug abuse may be more likely to embody these behaviors. It´s important for not only parents but also community leaders to build supportive systems that foster a nurturing environment for teens & kids.
Uncertainty About The Future
Sometimes adults forget that the current political landscape and what is happening in society also affects teens. Teens are often exposed to the news or societal events that impact their education, relationships, and health. Covid made this clear after rates of teen anxiety & depression skyrocketed during periods of isolation.
Teens also may feel uncertainty about their future on a personal level. The pressure of work, going to college, and becoming an adult can take a toll on teens and increase anxiety.
Poor Nutrition
Food plays a large impact on how we feel. Eating a balanced meal with sufficient vitamins and minerals is important for the developing teen brain. It also teaches teens to have a healthy relationship with food as they grow into adulthood.
Eating overly processed foods filled with chemicals can cause symptoms that mimic mental health problems such as fatigue and inability to focus. Parents should teach healthy eating routines that teens can carry with them into adulthood.
Isolation
Teens are one of the most isolated demographics which can make it difficult for them to feel heard, seen, and validated. Many parts of the US do not have services or places catering to teens.
This transformational period is also when teens begin to explore their identities and peer interaction is at its highest. For teens that have trouble socializing with others, or are victims of gossiping or bullying, they may become more isolated. This can lead to extra mental health struggles such as depression or anxiety.
Parenting & Home Life
Parents are one of the biggest influences in a teen’s life. Putting too much pressure on your teen, shaming them, or refusing to hear them out can cause future problems.
Parents should actively listen to their teens, and validate their feelings to build an open line of communication and trust. This can make it more likely that your teen comes to you in times of need or if they are struggling with their mental health.
Leslie received a Bachelor of Arts from Texas Tech University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. Leslie approaches clinical work through the lens of person-centered and utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. As a leader, Leslie values the relationship she has with her clinical team and prioritizes their needs for the success of the girls’ campus. When not at work Leslie enjoys volunteering at her church and spending time with her husband and fur baby, Sabel.
