Ways to support your child on World Teen Mental Wellness Day | Parentally Speaking

Ezra Helfand
·3 min read

We acknowledge World Teen Mental Wellness Day each March. This special day was created to raise awareness about the importance of mental health for teens and adolescents. It's a great opportunity to learn more about mental health issues and how to support those affected by them. With mental illness becoming an increasingly common struggle among teens, it's important to take steps toward improving mental wellness.

Teen mental wellness is a critical aspect of adolescent health that encompasses emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It is vital for teens to maintain positive mental health as they navigate the challenges and transitions of adolescence. Teen mental wellness can be influenced by various factors, including family dynamics, peer relationships, academic pressure, societal expectations and biological changes.

One of the key components of teen mental wellness is self-esteem. Adolescents who have a healthy sense of self-esteem are better equipped to handle stress, develop positive relationships and make healthy choices. However, many teens struggle with low self-esteem, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt and depression. Building self-esteem involves recognizing one's strengths and accomplishments, setting realistic goals and learning to accept oneself, flaws and all.

Another crucial aspect of teen mental wellness is emotional regulation. Adolescence is a time of intense emotions, and teens often experience mood swings, anxiety and stress. Learning to manage these emotions effectively is essential for maintaining mental wellbeing. Strategies such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises and journaling can help teens regulate their emotions and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

More: Substance abuse by seniors presents unique challenges | Parentally Speaking

Peer relationships also play a significant role in teen mental wellness. Adolescents crave social connection and validation from their peers, but peer pressure and social comparison can also contribute to feelings of insecurity and anxiety. It is essential for teens to cultivate healthy friendships and learn to assert themselves in social situations. Developing strong communication skills and boundaries can help adolescents navigate peer relationships with confidence and resilience.

Academic pressure is another common stressor for teens, especially in today's competitive educational environment. The pressure to excel academically can lead to anxiety, perfectionism and burnout. It is crucial for teens to maintain a healthy balance between academic pursuits and self-care activities. Setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks and seeking support from teachers and parents can help teenagers manage academic stress more effectively.

Furthermore, family dynamics play a significant role in teen mental wellness. Adolescents who have supportive and nurturing family environments are more likely to have positive mental health outcomes. However, family conflict, dysfunction and neglect can contribute to poor mental health outcomes for teens. Open communication, mutual respect and family therapy can help strengthen family relationships and support teens emotional wellbeing.

More: How to balance work and family | Parentally Speaking

In addition to these factors, societal expectations and cultural norms can also impact teen mental wellness. Adolescents may face pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, academic achievements, or social norms, which can negatively affect their self-esteem and mental health. Promoting diversity, inclusivity and body positivity can help create a more supportive environment for teens to thrive.

In conclusion, teen mental wellness is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. By addressing factors such as self-esteem, emotional regulation, peer relationships, academic pressure, family dynamics and societal expectations, we can support teens in maintaining positive mental health outcomes. It is essential for parents, educators, health care professionals and policymakers to work together to create environments that promote teen mental wellness and resilience.

If you are seeking help, here are some options:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

  • 2nd Floor Youth Helpline – If you are between the ages of 10 and 24, live in New Jersey and need to talk about an issue or problem that you are facing, call or text 888-222-2228.

  • The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386, text ‘START’ to 678-678 or visit thetrevorproject.org/get-help.

Ezra Helfand is CEO/Executive Director of the Wellspring Center for Prevention (formerly NCADD of Middlesex County, Inc.) You can reach him at ezra.helfand@wellspringprevention.org.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Teen mental health awareness important as ever