Teenage Mental Health

Mental health statistics in Britain have been steadily growing over the past ten years, with mental health in schools rising rapidly. Depression and anxiety are the main mental health issues that affect people in Britain, and up to 1 in 6 people are affected by common mental health issues every week.

10% of 5-16 year olds have a clinically diagnosed mental health issue, yet 70% of children who suffer from mental health issues do not have the correct interventions at an appropriate age. If these issues were diagnosed at an earlier age, they can be treated before the illness worsens.

Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health illnesses in adolescents, with depression being the most common. 11% of teenagers have an actual diagnosable depressive disorder, but only 1 in 5 teens look for help with their illness.

To help people with mental health illnesses, it’s important to keep in mind that it may be helpful to talk to them, and urge them to ask a professional for help. You should never force someone into getting help because it often makes them want help less, because you are forcing them to do something that they refuse to do normally. You could also be open with them about their illness; try not to shy away from the topic, because it can make them feel just as uncomfortable as you, talk openly about the topic if they would like to. If they do come to talk to you about the topic, listen to them and encourage them to talk to you about their feelings more, don’t ignore someone in need.

Schools as a whole should talk more openly about mental health illnesses as people often feel alone, even when they are surrounded by friends and teachers alike. Schools could give lessons on mental health: signs and symptoms could be explained so that people who may be suffering can learn about what they can do. Schools could also have someone who has experienced mental health issues to talk, so the people who are alone don’t feel lonely any longer. We must help these people together, never target someone based on something that they desperately need help to change.

If you have been affected by anything in this article, or would like to get more information, please don’t hesitate to contact someone or visit the NHS page: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/Pages/mental-health-helplines.aspx