Many young people have mental health problems that can lead to serious, long-lasting impairment. Some of these problems can be prevented through early intervention.
Economic trends affect youth mental health, with effects varying by age group and family situation. Specifically, some youth may live with their parents longer and others experience economic insecurity and instability of work.
Depression
Depression is common in teens, but can lead to serious problems if it’s not treated. These problems can include trouble at school or work, arguments with family and friends, and even thoughts about suicide.
If you or a young person you know is depressed, see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can build a mental health treatment plan and help you learn to use strategies and tools.
Your doctor can also prescribe medicines, which may relieve symptoms of depression. You can also ask your doctor about online and telephone counselling services. These include ReachOut, youthbeyondblue and Kids Helpline. You can also chat with a crisis supporter at Lifeline or headspace through their websites or phone numbers.
Anxiety
Although it’s natural to be nervous or fearful at times, anxiety can become a serious problem when it interferes with daily life. It is important to recognize anxiety disorders in children and teens.
Youths with an anxiety disorder may exhibit a wide range of problems, including explosive outbursts, clinging, avoiding things they’re afraid of, refusal to enter situations, arguing, freezing or whining. Such behavior can resemble symptoms of other conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression or bipolar disorder.
Some risk factors for anxiety include a family history of mental health disorders, major life events or stressors, traumatic experiences and drug or alcohol use. Personality can also play a role in anxiety disorders. Treatment for anxiety includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and gradual exposure in safe settings.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Symptoms of ADHD can include trouble paying attention, daydreaming or being easily distracted. Children with ADHD may also have trouble organizing or finishing schoolwork. Teens with ADHD have a higher risk of drug and alcohol misuse, fights and problems with the law.
Health care providers diagnose ADHD by using a mental health assessment, physical examination and various blood and lab tests. They also use standardized ADHD symptom checklists or questionnaires with rating scales to help identify symptoms. They may also ask about family history and conduct interviews.
Treatment options for ADHD include behavior therapy and medication. Stimulants such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate help improve focus and reduce impulsiveness. Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and clonidine can be used when stimulants don’t work or cause side effects. Psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also help.
Bipolar Disorder
While bipolar disorder is typically associated with manic episodes and depression, it can also cause irritability, anger or hyperactivity. These symptoms are usually fewer and less severe than those in adults with the condition, but they can still cause a lot of disruption to normal life.
A specialized mental health professional will diagnose bipolar disorder. Treatment usually includes medicine and therapy, which helps a person learn to cope with mood changes. Therapy may help people become more mindful and understand their feelings, and it can teach them better ways to respond to serious or upsetting events.
It is important to remember that all kids and teens have mood swings at some point. But if they are intense and interfere with a person’s daily functioning, bipolar disorder may be the cause.
Suicide
Suicide is a major problem among teens. A teenager’s risk may be increased by a number of factors, such as family problems or feeling isolated and not connected to others; serious mental illness (such as depression), substance use disorders or other health conditions; mood swings; or easy access to lethal means.
Threats of suicide should be taken seriously. A young person who makes a threat should be assessed right away and given immediate treatment, such as medication or talk therapy. Some types of talk therapy have been found to decrease the rate of suicide among adolescents, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Other effective treatments include community and school intervention programs that help teens recognize warning signs and find support. These programs can be accessed through family physicians, county medical societies, schools and community mental health centers.