Tips for Addressing Teen Mental Health in a Complex World
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By PAGE Editor
Teenagers’ mental health is very vulnerable because of so many complexities surrounding the world, including global problems, health challenges, financial instability, and so on. This all contributes to various problems they may face during their teenage years, so it is important to address such issues and find solutions that can help them cope with anything that comes their way. Let’s check out some of the best tips for addressing teen mental health in a complex world.
Communicate openly
Proper and open communication is the first step in overcoming challenges and issues a person may have, and this is also the case with teenagers and their mental health. Listen attentively to what they have to say and show empathy, as this is the foundation of fruitful communication and the one where they can feel trust and hope. Don’t forget to be non-judgmental, as criticism and harsh words cannot help anyone, especially not a young person who is still developing and finding their way in this world.
Their worries sometimes may seem insignificant to you, but to them, they are like insurmountable burdens they cannot easily deal with, so you must show that you understand them and are honest about offering help, at least by listening and providing some useful pieces of advice. Ask them about their feelings and let them express them freely, as this will increase the likelihood they will turn to you whenever they need help, feeling understood and valued.
Seek professional help
Sometimes, no matter how much we want to, we cannot simply help young people with only kind words and advice. Professional help is essential in situations where they have no means to face their mental health challenges, and they are only progressing, impacting their life quality and everyday functioning. If teenagers show symptoms like constant distress, anxiety, panic attacks, withdrawal, behavioral changes, or feelings of helplessness, then it is time to consult an expert who can work with them and show them ways to cope with such issues.
Sometimes, the best way to deal with these problems is through php programs, or partial hospitalization programs for teens, which are a structured day treatment environment that provides an amazing level of compassionate care and therapeutic intervention. With a dedicated and skilled mental health team, any teenager will cope with problems like trauma, depression, anxiety, and other health challenges. They will also develop the necessary skills for their development and self-awareness, which will make them stronger and more resistant to everyday challenges, making their mental health better.
Be careful about their social media use
Social media, no matter how many benefits it brings, is also very dangerous and harmful if not used properly, and teenagers often do not know how to handle the pressure and challenges that come exactly from this source. They can face problems like distress, low self-esteem, and sleeping troubles when they use it too much or start to believe that everything they see there, even the depictions of perfect lives they may not be living, are true. So, do your best to teach them moderation and self-awareness while using social media, and also why it is important to limit their screen time.
Teens usually compare themselves to what they see there, and sometimes they find it quite depressing when they see they don’t live as lavish lives as presented on various platforms. Work with them and explain why such things are not to be compared, and how they should be the ones controlling the influence social media has rather than this virtual world controlling them and their emotions.
Find some healthy coping mechanisms
You can achieve a lot if you know what kind of coping mechanisms to use to help your teen overcome the emotional ups and downs. For example, journaling is a wonderful way that lets them to express their emotions, fears, and hopes just the way they feel them, and this journal will be their safe space where they can completely let everything out without the fear of being judged or misunderstood.
Also, physical activity is another amazing way to deal with stress, as it helps to produce endorphins, which are better known as feel-good hormones. Painting, writing, doing some sports, or any other activity they may find fulfilling are the best coping mechanisms that can help them deal with the challenges this period of life brings, and they will for sure become more resilient and better control their emotions.
Establish a supportive environment
When people feel their family and friends support them and care for them, they will for sure have more hope and optimism to deal with whatever comes their way. Teenagers are like this as well, and you should do your best to listen, offer advice, and understand their struggles whenever they reach out to you for help. Also, when they have a positive and encouraging social circle, they will feel free to ask any questions and build more resilience during tough times, which is a must for their mental health.
Mental health is an essential topic to think about, and when it comes to teenagers, it becomes more important, as they are just starting out in their lives and need help if they are facing any issues. So, follow the tips mentioned here to foster open communication and use the right resources to help young people become happier and more optimistic about their future.
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