Teenage mental health in the United States is in crisis. Over the last ten years, mental health among teenagers in the United States has gotten worse, with the COVID-19 pandemic making things even harder.
Poor mental health during the teenage years can have long-lasting effects, leading to serious challenges later in life if no action is taken. It is a worrying time for parents of teenagers, particularly those who fall into minority groups, and it’s why World Teen Mental Wellness Day on March 2nd is needed more than ever to raise awareness about mental health. Let’s look at what might be causing this mental health crisis and how parents and adults can support teens better.
Some troubling statistics
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that in 2023, about 4.5 million teenagers in the United States experienced a major depressive episode. SAMHSA’s concern seems valid, as from 2020 to 2022, suicide was the second-leading cause of death for American kids aged 10 to 14.
Mental health problems can affect anyone, but there appears to be a greater degree of risk for those exhibiting teenage mental health problems. Factors like race, sexual orientation, gender identity, and family income can all have an impact. A report found that suicide rates among Black teenagers almost doubled between 2007 and 2017. This increase is the fastest among all racial and ethnic groups.
Another report from 2023 showed that 41% of LGBTQ+ teens thought about attempting suicide in the past year. This includes half of transgender and nonbinary teens. Suicide attempt rates were highest among Black, Indigenous, and multiracial LGBTQ+ teens.
Of all the teenage mental health issues, eating disorders are one of the deadliest, with people suffering severe symptoms up to 11 times more likely to attempt suicide.
What contributes to poor teenage mental health?
Adults often have forgotten how stressful being a teenager can be. During puberty, certain parts of a teenager’s brain, like the area that creates emotions, are fully developed. However, other parts, like the ones that help control and handle those emotions, are still growing. This means teens often experience intense emotions but don’t always know how to manage them.
Adolescent mental health can be exacerbated by many stressors, such as:
- Academic pressure
- Social challenges like being bullied or having trouble fitting in
- Problems at home, such as lack of support, money issues, or abuse
- Overloaded schedules with school and activities
- Spending too much time on social media
- Not getting enough sleep
- Eating unhealthy foods
- Relationship struggles
- Using or misusing drugs and alcohol
How the COVID-19 pandemic made the crisis worse
While pandemic lockdowns are now over and most of the rules that kept young people apart are no longer in place, studies show that those tough years may have affected how young people grow both mentally and physically. Children thrive with stability, routines, structure, and support from trusted adults. However, during the pandemic, many experienced more instability and changes in their daily lives.
Families may also still be struggling with money issues, even as the economy improves after the high unemployment and inflation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The housing crisis and the rising cost of college are making things even harder, creating a lot of stress for many people.
How to spot teenage mental health problems in your family
Warning signs of depression or suicide can appear suddenly and obviously, or they might show up more subtly when a child isn’t developing as expected. In other words, something might just feel wrong. Some specific things to watch for include:
- A change in mood. If they seem quieter, sadder, or more easily annoyed than normal, it might be a sign they’re struggling.
- A change in behavior, like sleeping, eating, hanging out with friends, joining clubs or teams, or even texting. Doing these activities more or less than usual isn’t always a problem, but it’s a good reason to keep a closer eye on them.
- Risky behaviors, such as using drugs or drinking alcohol, can be signs of deeper mental health struggles. Teens dealing with depression might also turn to self-harm, like cutting, hitting, burning, or injuring themselves in other ways.
How to help your teenager
Adults, like parents and caregivers, play a big part in helping teens deal with mental health struggles. While kids are pretty resilient and can get through tough times, adults can help by finding ways to make things easier and supporting them through their challenges.
Being present and supportive
Whether it’s a parent, teacher, coach, or mentor, presence matters. Studies show that kids build resilience mainly by having at least one reliable and supportive relationship with a caring adult. Children may not always feel comfortable asking for help, even if they know their parents are there for them. Checking in on teens to see if they need support or assistance can be very beneficial.
Listen
Listening helps to build meaningful connections. When a child opens up and shares their thoughts, the act of truly hearing them can foster trust and understanding. Meaningful conversations often emerge in moments of quiet, where the child feels free to express their experiences without interruption.
Support identity
Having a loving and supportive home can greatly affect a teen’s mental health. LGBTQ+ teens are at higher risk for depression and suicide, but this risk drops when their families show support and acceptance.
Keep up with new information
When someone becomes a new parent, they often read books, browse articles, and talk to friends for advice. This kind of learning shouldn’t stop as their kids grow up. Keeping up with new information can still be valuable in learning all about teenage mental health.
Parents can also ensure their teen has access to helpful emergency resources, such as:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988.
- Transgender Suicide Hotline: 1.877.565.8860.
- The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741.741.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1.800.662.4357 or send your zip code via text message to 435748 (HELP4U).
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1.800.656.HOPE (4673).
Speak with a healthcare practitioner
If parents are thinking about therapy for their teen or have concerns about their well-being, they might like to start by talking to their family doctor, someone they already know and trust. Doctors understand how children grow and develop and can have a broader and professional view of the issues around teenage mental health.. They also know about mental health resources and can guide families on what to do next.
Don’t sweep things under the rug 
It can be challenging for parents to accept that their child might be struggling with teenage mental health issues, and many feel unsure about bringing it up. However, waiting and hoping your child will handle it on their own is not the solution. Encouraging open discussions about mental health early on helps families create a safe space for sharing. Normalizing these conversations makes it easier for kids to talk about their struggles when they need support.
Set a good example for mental health
Teens pay close attention to what adults do, even if it’s not obvious. Their behavior often reflects what they see. Taking care of your mental health means eating healthy, staying active, and building strong relationships with others. It also involves having open conversations about feelings in a healthy way. Parents can show their children how they handle emotions like fear, anger, and sadness. This helps kids feel confident that they can also learn to manage their emotions.
Regular check-ins can be a powerful way to support your teen’s mental wellness. By making these conversations a regular part of your routine, it becomes easier to address concerns naturally, whether it’s saying, “You seem a bit different, what’s going on?” or “You look upset, did I miss something?” Open, ongoing communication lays the foundation for understanding and connection, helping your teen feel supported through both the highs and the challenges.
FAQs
What are the most common mental health issues in adolescents?
Mental health challenges often faced by adolescents include anxiety, depression, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and eating disorders.
At what age do mental health changes most often show up?
Mental health can affect individuals of any age, but it can be especially common in adolescents due to the many changes and challenges they face during this time.
How would you identify a mentally healthy adolescent?
Everyone experiences low moods or tough days, but those with good mental health tend to maintain an overall sense of optimism. They trust in their ability to navigate challenges and work toward building the fulfilling lives they desire, even if it takes time. Conditions like depression or anxiety, however, can take away this sense of hope and resilience.
How to deal with family problems as a teenager?
There are many ways to address family issues, but some ideas are to start by communicating with a clear goal in mind, and stay calm during discussions. Use “I” statements to express feelings and actively listen to find mutual solutions. If confrontation feels overwhelming, avoid triggers, redirect conversations, or lean on supportive friends and activities to recharge emotionally. For more serious challenges, seek outside help from trusted adults or professionals, especially if family dynamics are affecting your mental health.
