What is Mental Health?
Mental health is an important topic, growing increasingly discussed in our society, where many different current influences impact an individual’s mental health. In a broad sense, a person’s mental well-being affects many aspects of life, including behavior, emotions, decision-making, and coping strategies. There are many aspects and nuances surrounding the discussion of mental health, especially with teens, and having conversations about this topic is not simple or easy. Mental health, as described by the World Health Organization, “exists on a complex continuum” that is unique to each individual.
Mental health affects everyone differently. Some individuals experience conditions or disorders that impact their mental health. Working with professionals may help people, especially youth, work through their feelings to strive for better emotional and mental regulation. Stress is a major factor in adolescent and teen life, with family, school, friends, and other factors contributing significantly to how a child may feel. There are also risk factors that can influence a person’s mental health, including socioeconomic status, exposure to violence, genetics, substance use, and experiencing inequality. By identifying these stressors and working towards a solution, individuals may find it easier to process and safely handle these emotions.
Mental health and mental illness are different, though they have connections to one another. Mental health is a more general state of well-being; mental illness is specific, in relation to particular issues that impact function and can be diagnosed. Consistently poor mental health may be a sign of mental illness. Other symptoms may include lack of motivation, extreme mood changes, inability to cope with problems, problems with drugs or alcohol, major changes in eating habits, use of excessive violence, anger, or hostility, or suicidal thoughts. These are not the only signs of mental illness; there are varying symptoms for different conditions. However, if you believe you may have a mental illness, it is important to speak to a professional and not rely on self-diagnosis. Do thorough research and contact local specialists to assist you on your mental health journey.
You are not alone. Many teens and young adults struggle with their mental health. It is important to reach out not only for your safety and well-being, but also to recognize that others understand your struggles. Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, and suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 15-29. Emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression are the most common in youth. However, other disorders commonly emerge in adolescence, such as eating disorders, psychosis, and behavioral disorders. In helping youth manage their mental health early, they will be able to manage their lives as adults as well.
