Navigating Adolescence in Central Illinois: A Teen's Guide to Mental Well-being

Adolescence is a formative time and crucial for brain development. During adolescence, individuals are experiencing physical, emotional, and social changes. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents. Globally, it has actually been estimated that 1 in 7 (14%) 10–19-year-olds experience mental health conditions, yet these remain largely unrecognized and untreated. Adolescents with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigma (affecting readiness to seek help), educational difficulties, risk-taking behaviors, physical ill-health, and human rights violations.

Mental health risk

Adolescence is an important time to develop healthy habits, such as regular sleep and exercise, coping, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, and managing emotions. Many factors can impact an adolescent’s mental health, including the following:

• Pressure to conform/peer pressure

• Social media

• Bullying/internet bullying

• Pressure to obtain good grades/perform well in sports 

• Media influence

• Gender norms

• Relationship with peers

• Violence 

• Discrimination 

• Socioeconomic concerns 

It is important to know that many adolescents that could benefit from mental health services may face barriers such as poor living conditions, stigma, discrimination/exclusion and lack of access to services. 

Signs an adolescent may be struggling  

• Significant changes in sleep and eating habits

• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

• Withdrawing/isolating behaviors 

• Academic struggles

• Racing thoughts and worries

• Signs of drugs, alcohol or other substance use

• Signs of self-harm such as cuts or burns

Keep in mind that some symptoms on this list may be things an adolescent goes through as they are experiencing factors such as hormonal shifts, which can impact your child’s mood, school performance, and more. 

So, now what?

Coping skills are strategies used to manage strong emotions, cope with stress, and maintain mental wellness. If an adolescent finds themselves struggling with mental health symptoms, coping skills can be used to help reduce the symptoms. Types of coping skills include distraction techniques, mindfulness, opposite action (doing something the opposite of your impulse), self-soothing, and mental exercises. Here are some examples of coping skills :

• Going on a walk

• Listening to music

• Writing, drawing, and painting

• Watching a TV show or movie

• Reading a book

• Journaling

• Using positive affirmations 

• Deep breathing

• Playing a video game 

• Word games and puzzles 

Adolescents typically need at least 8-10 hours of sleep since their brains are still developing, as well as a healthy diet to support growing bodies. Sleep is usually the first thing to get sacrificed as we get busy! Avoid taking on too much by balancing your schedule and ensure self-care needs are being met. Consider taking breaks from social media/electronics, spending time outside, and seeing family and friends.

Seeking support can be very beneficial for mental health, as a counselor can help guide an adolescent through life stressors, develop healthy habits, and grow self-awareness. Navigating adolescence can be a tough journey - consider contacting us at the Mental Wellness Center for support along the way.