(Public Health)
Mental Health of Adolescents and Youth
On this page, we will address your questions about mental health for adolescents and young people.
What is the mental health of adolescents and youth?
- The mental health of adolescents and youth refers to a state of psychological and emotional well-being that enables them to cope with daily challenges, develop their abilities, build positive relationships, and make healthy, responsible decisions. Adolescence is a transitional stage filled with physical, psychological, and social changes, which makes mental health during this period more vulnerable to negative influences if not adequately supported. It is essential to realize that mental health does not mean only the absence of mental disorders; instead, it includes enjoying a state of psychological balance and personal satisfaction.
- What is the importance of mental health for adolescents and youth?
- Mental health is an essential component of overall health and has a direct impact on quality of life, both now and in the future.
Good mental health is linked to higher academic achievement, career success, and the development of strong social relationships.
There is a close link between mental and physical health; deteriorating mental health can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease and high blood pressure due to constant stress.
Common Types of Mental Disorders in Adolescents and Youth:
- Mental disorders among adolescents and youth vary in severity, symptoms,and impact on daily life. The most prominent include:
- Anxiety disorders: These are among the most common mental health issues in adolescents and are characterized by excessive and disproportionate fear or anxiety in everyday situations. Examples include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and various types of phobias. According to the World HealthADHD):Organization, approximately 5.5% of adolescents aged 15 to 19 years and 4.4% of those aged 10 to 14 years experience anxiety disorders. These conditions directly impact academic performance and social relationships, and in more severe cases, they may lead to social withdrawal, feelings of isolation, and even self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
- Depressive disorders: These involve a persistent depressed mood that affects thinking, feelings, and daily behaviors such as sleep, eating, and academic performance. Common depressive disorders include major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. According toWHO, depression affects about 4% of adolescents aged 10–14 and 3.5% of those aged 15–19. Depression is also a significant factor contributing to suicide, the third leading cause of death among youth aged 15–29.
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): This disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that impairs adolescents’ performance at school and in social life. Statistics show thatabout 9% of adolescents aged 13–18 have this disorder. It is often diagnosed at an early age and may continue to affect the individual into adulthood if not appropriately managed.
- Behavioral disorders: These usually appear at a younger age in adolescents and include patterns of aggressive or destructive behavior, such as conduct disorder andoppositional defiant disorder. Such disorders can increase the likelihood of engaging in criminal or violent behavior and negatively affect academic achievement and social relationships.
Eating disorders: These disorders are pervasive among girls and typically emerge during adolescence, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. These conditions involve abnormal eating behaviors coupled with excessive anxiety about body shape and weight, and can lead to serious health complications or even death in some cases.
Psychosis and schizophrenia: Schizophrenia and psychotic conditions usually appear in late adolescence and early adulthood, manifesting in symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, which impair the young person’s ability to participate in daily activities and may lead to social stigma and rights violations. Schizophrenia affects about 1% of adolescents aged 15–19.
Early recognition of these types of disorders is a crucial step towards providing necessary support and enhancing the quality of life for adolescents and young people in the long term.
- Risk Factors:
Adolescent mental health is affected by a combination of interacting factors that may increase the likelihood of developing mental disorders if not addressed with awareness and support. The most notable include:
- Social and environmental pressures: Adolescents may face harsh living conditions such as poverty, domestic violence, bullying, or neglect and abuse, all of which increase feelings of anxiety and stress and make them moreprone to isolation or risky behaviors like substance abuse or violence. The WHO explains that such negative experiences directly impact psychological balance and can lead to reduced quality of life later on.
- The relationship between an adolescent and their family is a critical factor in shaping their mental health. A hostile family environment characterized by constant tension, frequent criticism, or lack of communication and emotional support can lead to feelings of insecurity andincrease the risk of depression and anxiety. Conversely, the World Health Organization emphasizes that a supportive family, which demonstrates understanding and care and encourages open dialogue, significantly contributes to an adolescent’s ability to cope with stress and maintain psychological balance.
- Excessive and unhealthy use of technology: Excessive use of social media and video games has become one of the most influential behaviors affecting adolescents’ mental health. Unregulated use can lead to distraction, poor sleep, increasedanxiety and depression, and lower academic achievement, as well as affecting real-life social interactions. The WHO emphasizes the importance of teaching adolescents digital balance skills and how to use the internet safely and healthily.
- Stigma associated with mental health: Shame in seeking help or fear of others’ judgment remains a significant barrier preventing adolescents with mental disorders from askingfor support. Stigma and discrimination lead to reluctance to share feelings and seek help, which may worsen symptoms and cause more serious complications over time.
Biological and physiological factors: Genetics play an important role in susceptibility to certain mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Hormonal and chemical changes in the brain during adolescence also increase a young person’s sensitivity to environmental factors. Studies show that vulnerable groups, such as adolescents from minorities or marginalized groups, may face compounded challenges, making them more at risk for mental health problems.
- Academic pressure and transitioning between educational stages: High academic demands, moving from one educational level to another, and comparing academic performance with peers can significantly impact adolescents’ mental health. According to the World Health Organization, anxiety and depressive disorders mayprofoundly affect school attendance and the ability to complete assignments, potentially worsening feelings of isolation or social withdrawal. To prevent this, educational environments are encouraged to provide psychological and social support, promote coping skills, and reconsider overly competitive assessment models.
- Prevention:
- Supportive family and school environment: Having an understanding family and a safe schoolenvironment that encourages open communication boosts adolescents’ ability to cope with stress.
- Awareness of healthy digital use: Teaching youth how to use social media and video gamesin moderation can help mitigate the adverse effects of technology on sleep and concentration.
- Early detection and prompt intervention: Monitoring warning signs such as isolation or suddenbehavioral changes helps intervene early and prevent the worsening of mental disorders.
- Enhancing coping and problem-solving skills: Prevention programs encourage adolescents tolearn how to manage daily stress and find positive solutions.
- Promoting physical and social activities: Exercise and participation in groupactivities improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Encouraging open dialogue: Keeping communication channels open with family or specialists and encouraging help-seeking behavior enhances the chances of early treatment.
- Social-emotional learning programs: Integrating self-awareness and empathy skillsinto school curricula helps build positive mental health.
- Empowerment Solutions: How can youth takecare of their mental health?
- Build a trusted support network: Ensure you have a circle of trustworthy people — such as family, friends, or teachers — with whom youcan speak openly and honestly. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a supportive person can help alleviate pressure and make you feel less isolated.
- Learn to manage daily stress: You may face numerous pressures at school or socially, so develop simple yet effective habits. Dedicate time for daily exerciseor a walk, ensure good sleep quality and hours, and eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Such habits make your mind and body more resilient.
- Stay aware of early signs: Observe your mental state and any sudden changes, such as losing enthusiasm for activities you enjoy, withdrawing from others, or experiencingdisturbances in sleep or appetite. If you notice unusual signs, don’t ignore them — talk to a trusted adult or seek a mental health professional’s opinion.
Use support services without fear: If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Mental health professionals can help you confidentially, and many schools or universities offer free or affordable counseling services. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength.
- Take breaks away from distractions: Try to reduce time spent on social media or digital games if you feel they cause stress oraffect your sleep. Replace some screen time with relaxing activities, such as reading, a hobby, or spending quality time with friends in person.
- Frequently AskedQuestions:
- What are the warning signs that require concern? It is normal for a teenager to experience periods of sadness or stress. Still, some signs require attention, such as sudden withdrawal from friends and activities, aloss of interest in things once enjoyed, noticeable changes in appetite or sleep patterns, or persistent low energy. Self-harm or talking about suicidal thoughts are among the most serious signals that require urgent professional help.
Can the family help? Yes, family plays a crucial role in protecting adolescents’ mental health. Ongoing communication and open dialogue, free from judgment, create a sense of safety and reduce feelings of loneliness. Accepting the idea of mental health treatment and breaking the stigma encourages youth to seek help early instead of hiding problems.
Do mental health problems resolve on their own? Some teens or parents believe that mental health problems will disappear on their own over time, but research shows that mental disorders often worsen if early intervention is delayed. Early detection and starting appropriate treatment help limit complications and improve long-term quality of life.
- When should a specialist be consulted?
- Youth and their families are advised not to delay seeking professional help if clear warning signs appear, persist for a prolonged period, or significantly impact daily life. Key signs include:
- Thinking about self-harm or suicide.
- Severe social withdrawal and distancing from friends and family.
- Sudden and unexplained decline in academic performance.
Significant and unusual changes in sleep or appetite.
Complete loss of interest in activities and hobbies once enjoyed.
- All these signs indicate the importance of early intervention to prevent problems from worsening. Consulting a licensed mental health professional helps in diagnosis and developing a confidential, safe treatment plan.
- General Guidelines:
- Ensure you get enough regular sleep to strengthen your mental and physical health.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit your intake of excessive junk food.
- Dedicate daily time to physical activity, even just walking.
- Stay in regular contact with friends and family and maintain supportive relationships.
- Reduce screen time, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.
- Schedule breaks away from social media and gaming.
- Talk to a trusted person if you feel stressed, rather than bottling up your feelings.
- Never hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional if needed.
