Real talk: why teen mental health is in increasing and what to do....

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 When you're a teenager, life can feel like a constant rollercoaster, classes, social media, friendships, figuring out your identity, planning for the future… it’s a lot. While the teen years are full of growth and self-discovery, they also come with unique pressures that can seriously impact mental health.

And here’s the truth: talking about mental health isn’t weak. It’s real. It’s powerful. And it’s necessary.

What’s Going On with Teen Mental Health?

In recent years, studies have shown a sharp rise in anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles among teens. It’s not just because of the pandemic (although that definitely made things harder). Social media, academic stress, family issues, identity struggles, and world events can all add invisible weight on a teen’s shoulders.

  • 1 in 5 teens experiences a mental health disorder each year.

  • Over 70% of teens say anxiety and depression are major problems in their peer group.

  • And yet, less than half get the help they need.

Let that sink in.

Why It’s Okay Not to Be Okay

There’s still stigma around mental health, especially among teens who may feel like they need to appear "cool," "in control," or "happy" all the time. But the truth is, struggling doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.

Whether you’re feeling:

  • Stressed and overwhelmed with school,

  • Constantly comparing yourself on social media,

  • Pressured by expectations from family or society,

  • Or just sad and you don’t know why…

You’re not alone. And it’s okay to say, “I’m not okay.”

Signs a Teen Might Be Struggling (Including Yourself)

Mental health looks different for everyone, but here are some common signs:

  • Withdrawal from friends or activities they used to enjoy

  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

  • Changes in appetite or energy

  • Drop in grades or motivation

  • Feeling worthless or hopeless

  • Panic attacks, mood swings, or constant worry

If this sounds familiar, whether it’s you or someone you know, it’s time to talk.

What Can Help?

Mental health isn’t something you “fix” overnight, but there are ways to support it:

1. Talk to Someone

A trusted adult, a school counselor, a mental health professional, you don’t have to carry everything alone.

2. Limit Social Media

You don’t have to quit it completely, but it helps to take breaks and follow accounts that uplift you instead of draining you.

3. Move Your Body

Exercise releases feel-good chemicals. Even a 10-minute walk outside can shift your mood.

4. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep and mental health go hand in hand. Late-night scrolling? Not worth it.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a friend. No one has it all figured out, and that’s okay.

For Parents and Adults Reading This

Teens need your support more than ever. Don’t dismiss their feelings as “just hormones” or “teen drama.” Validate, listen without judgment, and encourage professional help if needed. One caring adult can make all the difference.

Let’s End the Stigma

Mental health matters. Teen mental health really matters. The sooner we normalize talking about it, the sooner we can help each other heal, grow, and thrive.

So whether you’re a teen reading this, or someone who cares about one, remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You're not broken. You're growing. And there's always hope.

Need help now? In the U.S., you can text “HELLO” to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Free. 24/7. Confidential.

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