Mental Health
In a survey for people ages 18-24, when asked about mental illness, 54% said they have at one time suffered from a mental illness, and 91% said they’ve known someone who has suffered from a mental illness.
Understanding Mental Health and Illness
What is a mental illness?
A condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, or mood. These conditions can affect someone’s ability to relate to others and function each day. (NAMI)
Are all mental illnesses the same?
No. Mental illness is different in every single person, even if two people have the exact same diagnosis. (NAMI)
What causes mental illness?
There’s no one cause of mental illness. For some it’s genetic, for others it’s the environment that they’re surrounded by, and sometimes it’s the influence of a lifestyle they’ve created. In many cases, these causes can overlap and create the mental illness. (NAMI)
What are some Common mental illnesses for Adolescents?
Anxiety - feeling excessive amount of uneasiness, worry, or fear
Depression - depressed mood that affects thoughts, feeling, and daily activities
Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - inability to concentrate or hyperactive impulses that interferes with daily functions
Eating Disorders - abnormal eating behaviors including over- or under- eating
There are of course a number of other mental illnesses adolescents can face and struggle with. People can also suffer from multiple mental illnesses at once which is known as co-occurring disorders. (HHS)
What if I think I have a mental illness?
Evaluate your mental health state.
Your mental health includes your emotional, psychological, and social well-being which can affect every aspect of your life. (MentalHealth.gov)
You should look at your life at that moment and see if there are any new changes. This could include stress, family or friend issues, a major life change, or any number of other things. If possible, try and change.
Try and find someone to talk to.
Many people look to parents in a time of confusion or crisis. However, that isn’t always a possibility. But, finding someone you can trust can help you figure out what your next steps could or should be.
Seek professional help.
Not everyone with a mental illness needs professional help such as a therapist/psychologist or psychiatrist to help them solve their problems. However, it can be a great stepping stone to figuring out how to manage your illness.