In the decade before the pandemic, mental health challenges rose sharply among children and adolescents, including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders. Suicide rates increased 70% for youths ages 12-17, the largest increase for any age group.
Clinicians who treat kids with mental health issues agree that more resources are needed. But they don’t agree on why or how to solve the youth mental health crisis.
Stress
Stress can be a normal part of life, but when it becomes overwhelming or is experienced frequently it can lead to mental health problems. Symptoms of stress can include feeling tired or irritable, having trouble concentrating, and having negative thoughts or feelings.
Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to stress. They are exploring identity, trying to fit in with peers and may be experiencing issues like bullying or harsh parenting.
In a study of children and adolescents during the first COVID-19 lockdown, it was found that they were most stressed by having to change or cancel important activities or events, interruptions in their routine, fear of getting the virus and distressing news about the pandemic. Providing regular information and facilitating access to online resources to manage these stresses could help.
Anxiety
Although anxiety is a natural response to stress, it can become a problem when it becomes excessive and persistent. It is important to talk to your doctor if you think that you may have an anxiety disorder.
People who have anxiety disorders have extreme fears or worries that interfere with their daily lives. They might also have physical symptoms like trembling, stomachaches, and sweating.
The most common anxiety disorders are generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder. Symptoms of these disorders can vary in severity, but all of them include fear and/or apprehension that lasts at least six months. Youths who have these disorders often have a hard time functioning at school, home, or in the community. They might procrastinate on homework, seek excessive reassurance, or redo assignments multiple times because of their anxiety.
Depression
Having low moods or feeling sad or depressed sometimes is normal, especially when life is stressful. But if these feelings last for weeks or months and affect everyday life, it could be depression. It’s important to get help if you think you have depression or know someone who does.
Encourage them to talk to someone they trust, such as a teacher or school counsellor, friend or family member. They can also see their doctor who can assess the problem and may prescribe medication to lift their mood. If they feel more severe symptoms or are at risk of harming themselves, they might need more intensive treatment. This might involve a stay in a psychiatric hospital or day programs that offer counseling, group discussions and activities with mental health professionals and other patients.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a mental health disorder that can affect people of all ages. People with ADHD have trouble paying attention, staying organized, and following rules. They may also be impulsive and make risky decisions. They may have difficulty with relationships, and are more likely to abuse alcohol and high-risk drugs.
Treatment can include medication and therapy. Therapy can help children and teens learn coping strategies, improve social skills, and gain confidence. It can also teach parents new ways to interact with their child.
Behavioral therapy can teach people with ADHD to control their behavior. For example, the therapist can teach them to think before acting or to wait their turn. Therapy can also help children with ADHD better understand and cope with their symptoms.
Suicide
Many teenagers who attempt suicide do so because of a mental health condition, such as depression. But the risk increases if a young person also has other problems, such as an eating disorder or a substance use problem. These issues can make it hard for a teenager to cope with strong feelings or get help from others.
It’s important to recognize warning signs and keep an eye on a teen’s mood. Even if they say they feel better and refuse to go to an appointment, it’s best not to ignore them. If they don’t want to talk, ask if they can restrict access to lethal means and consider keeping a suicide crisis plan on hand. Young people who live in humanitarian or fragile settings and those who experience stigma, discrimination or exclusion are also at higher risk for suicide.