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YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Teenager’s Mental Health reports have increased significantly

According to Health.org, ‘Among those aged 6 to 16 in England, one in six had a probable mental health condition in 2021.’

During the Worldwide lockdown, mental health conditions amongst teens have increased. According to a report from the Early Intervention Foundation, during the Coronavirus lockdown one in six young children aged 11-16 had developed a probable mental health disorder. When looking at young adults aged 17-22, this increases to one in five people.

So did Covid have an impact on teens mental health? Absolutely, although studies show that more mental health disorders have been diagnosed in people with no current disorders after lockdown rather than people who already have mental health disorders. What is the reason for this? Not being able to go anywhere and do anything. Teens heavily rely on school and college for social interactions, and with this being taken away from them, the teens have reports to feel more lonely. Having to complete the rest of their school year from behind a screen also compelled them to have a lack of motivation.

Mental health cases have risen since last year, maybe this is because teens are finally comfortable enough to speak up about their issues.

So what can you do to help someone who is going through a rough period with their mental health? Listen to them. Encourage them to speak to you or somebody they are comfortable around and listen to what they have to say, and don’t ridicule their feelings, that will only make things worse.