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During the pandemic, we have seen many more children and teens go to the emergency room with mental health problems. And there has been a notable rise in eating disorders, particularly among adolescent girls. Eating disorders include a range of unhealthy relationships with food and concerns about weight.

Unfortunately, eating disorders are common. In fact, one in seven men and one in five women experiences an eating disorder by age 40, and in 95% of those cases the disorder begins by age 25. Many kinds of eating disorders may affect children and teens:

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an extreme fear of gaining weight. People with anorexia nervosa often see themselves as overweight when they are at a healthy weight, and even when they are greatly underweight. There are two forms of anorexia nervosa: The restrictive form is when people greatly limit what and how much they eat in order to control their weight. In the binge-purge type, people limit what and how much they eat, but also binge and purge - that is, they will eat a large amount at once and try to get rid of the extra calories through vomiting, laxatives, diuretics, or excessive exercise.

Bulimia nervosa involves binging and purging but without limiting what and how much a person eats.

Binge eating disorder is when people binge eat but don't purge or restrict. This is actually the most common eating disorder in the United States.

Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder is most common in childhood. The person limits the amount or type of food they eat, but not because they are worried about their weight. For example, someone with inflammatory bowel disease may associate eating with pain and discomfort, and so may avoid eating. Children with sensory issues may find the smell, texture, or taste of certain foods deeply unpleasant, and so will refuse to eat them. This is more than just "picky eating" and can lead to malnutrition.

Misunderstandings about eating disorders

When most people think of eating disorders, they think of someone who is overly thin. However, you can have an eating disorder and have a normal weight, or even be overweight. The most important thing that many people don't realize about eating disorders is that they are a serious mental health issue and can be very dangerous. They can affect and damage many parts of the body - and can even be lethal. Of all the kinds of eating disorders, anorexia nervosa is the one that is most likely to lead to death.

What parents need to know: Signs of eating disorders

It's not surprising that eating disorders have been on the rise in children and teens during the pandemic, given the disruption, isolation, and stress - and excessive time on social media - that it has brought. It's important that parents watch for possible signs that their child or teen could have an eating disorder, including:

changes in what, when, and how much they eat

being restrictive or regimented about their eating

unusual weight fluctuations

expressing unhappiness with their body or their weight

exercising much more than usual

spending a lot of time in the bathroom.

If it even crosses your mind that your child might have an eating disorder, remember that eating disorders are not about choice. Mental health problems such as anxiety and depression play a big role; emotional suffering often underlies eating disorders. And research shows that when you undereat or overeat, it affects the brain processes that control hunger and food intake, reinforcing the eating disorder.

If you have concerns, talk to your child - and talk to your doctor. Even if you are wrong, it may lead to an important conversation about healthy eating and body image that could help prevent a future eating disorder. And if you are right, the sooner your child gets help, the better.

About the Author

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Eating disorders spike among children and teens: What parents should know - Harvard Health

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A notable rise in eating disorders is particularly marked among adolescent girls. Many kinds of eating disorders can affect children and teens, and parents need to understand their causes and be aware of signs suggesting their child may have an eating disorder.

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That it is hard to get help and they are always self contios

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I think that teens do strug with mental illness because if they went through something in their life that scares them.

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https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline

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https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

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Frequently Asked Questions - What is SAMHSA’s National Helpline?

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https://parents.au.reachout.com/common-concerns/everyday-issues/self-esteem-and-teenagers

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While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them.

Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships. Keep reading to understand self-esteem issues that may come up for your teenager and ways to help your child feel better about themselves and their capabilities.

This can help if you:

suspect your child is suffering from low self-esteem

want to learn how to build your child's self-esteem

would like to identify the causes of your child's low self-esteem.

Why your child's self-esteem is important

Positive self-esteem for teens is important as it allows them to try new things, take healthy risks and solve problems. In turn, their learning and development will be productive and will set them up for a healthy and positive future. A young person with healthy self-esteem is more likely to display positive behavioural characteristics, such as:

acting independent and mature

taking pride in their accomplishments/acheivements

accepting frustration and dealing with it responsibly

trying new things and challenges

helping others when possible

How can low self-esteem affect my child?

When someone has low self-esteem they tend to avoid situations where they think there's risk of failure, embarrassment or making mistakes. These can involve school work, making friends, and trying new activities, which are all important parts of a healthy teenage life.

If the low self-esteem is not identified and treated, then it can lead to problems such as:

relationship troubles or difficulty making friends

- negative moods such as feeling sad, anxious, ashamed or angry

low motivation

poor body image

earlier sexual activity

drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs to feel better

What can cause low self-esteem?

How a person feels about themselves is a result of their experiences and how they deal with situations. The most common causes of low self-esteem in teenagers are:

unsupportive parents, carers or others that play an influential role in their life

friends who are bad influences

stressful life events such as divorce or moving houses

trauma or abuse

poor performance at school or unrealistic goals

mood disorders such as depression

bullying or loneliness

ongoing medical issues

Signs of low self-esteem

A child with low self-esteem will more than likely be having negative thoughts about their worth and value as a person. Some general signs that your child has low self-esteem include:

avoiding new things and not taking up opportunities

feeling unloved and unwanted

blaming others for their own mistakes

- not being able to deal with normal levels of frustration

- negative self-talk and comparisons to others

fear of failure or embarrassment

difficulty making friends

low levels of motivation and interest

can't take compliments and shows mixed feelings of anxiety or stress.

There are things you can do to support your child to have positive self-esteem, but it's also important to remember that teenage self-esteem develops and changes quite frequently overtime. If your child doesn't show signs of positive self-esteem immediately, it doesn't necessarily mean you're doing something wrong!

You can help your child develop positive self-esteem with tips here.

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Self-esteem and teenagers - ReachOut Parents

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While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them. Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships.

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https://childmind.org/article/signs-of-anxiety-in-teenagers/

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https://childmind.org/article/signs-of-anxiety-in-teenagers/

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yes teens struggle with mental health and other things.

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Yes, many teens do struggle with mental health. It can be very hard on them sometimes. Some go through changes in there life or some have had hard times in life. If anyone is having hard ties with these they should find someone to talk to that they trust.

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Experts are concerned about a dramatic rise in eating disorders among teenagers over the  past year. Possible explanations for the increase include teens' loss of familiar routines ad regular connections  with friends, anxiety about the COVID-19 pandemic, bordem, and food insecurity a home.

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Experts are concerned about a dramatic rise in eating disorders among teenagers over the past year. Possible explanations for the increase include teens' loss of familiar routines and regular connections with friends, anxiety about the COVID-19 pandemic, boredom, and food insecurity at home.

Bryn Austin, professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and director of the Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders, said in an April 28, 2021, New York Times article that the demand for eating disorder treatment "is way outstretching the capacity to address it."

She noted that the amount of time that teens spend on social media-more than usual during the pandemic-can increase their risk of developing an eating disorder, as they compare their bodies to images found online. "That comparison creates a downward spiral in terms of body image and self-esteem," she said. "It makes them more likely to adopt unhealthy weight control behaviors."

Austin co-authored a June 1, 2021, opinion piece in the Times Union of Albany, New York, calling out the weight loss and dietary supplements industries for entering "right on cue to offer their products as solutions to vulnerable consumers struggling with the mental distress and fears of weight gain during the pandemic." She added, "Social media platforms are more than willing to oblige advertisers seeking to profit from the body image concerns of teens."

Both in the Times Union piece, and in a May 23, 2021 Letter to the Editor in the New York Times, Austin wrote about the importance of passing legislation prohibiting the sale of weight-loss and muscle-building dietary supplements-which often contain toxic ingredients-to children.

Read the New York Times article: Eating Disorders in Teens Have 'Exploded' in the Pandemic

Read Austin's Times Union opinion piece: Keep the diet industry from feeding on teenagers' fears

Read Austin's New York Times Letter to the Editor: Coming to Terms With Weight Issues

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Eating disorders in teens skyrocketing during pandemic

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Experts are concerned about a dramatic rise in eating disorders among teenagers over the past year. Possible explanations for the increase include teens' loss of familiar routines and regular connections with friends, anxiety about the COVID-19 pandemic, boredom, and food insecurity at home. Bryn Austin, professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Harvard T.H.

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Prevention tips for teen eating disorders

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How to talk to your teen about eating disorders and promote a healthy lifestyle for the entire family.

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Overview

Teen depression is a serious mental health problem that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and it can cause emotional, functional and physical problems. Although depression can occur at any time in life, symptoms may be different between teens and adults.

Issues such as peer pressure, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for some teens, the lows are more than just temporary feelings - they're a symptom of depression.

Teen depression isn't a weakness or something that can be overcome with willpower - it can have serious consequences and requires long-term treatment. For most teens, depression symptoms ease with treatment such as medication and psychological counseling.

Symptoms

Teen depression signs and symptoms include a change from the teenager's previous attitude and behavior that can cause significant distress and problems at school or home, in social activities, or in other areas of life.

Depression symptoms can vary in severity, but changes in your teen's emotions and behavior may include the examples below.

Emotional changes

Be alert for emotional changes, such as:

Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason

Frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters

Feeling hopeless or empty

Irritable or annoyed mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities

Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends

Low self-esteem

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism

Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance

Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things

Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak

Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide

Behavioral changes

Watch for changes in behavior, such as:

Tiredness and loss of energy

Insomnia or sleeping too much

Changes in appetite - decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain

Use of alcohol or drugs

Agitation or restlessness - for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still

Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements

Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse

Social isolation

Poor school performance or frequent absences from school

Less attention to personal hygiene or appearance

Angry outbursts, disruptive or risky behavior, or other acting-out behaviors

Self-harm - for example, cutting or burning

Making a suicide plan or a suicide attempt

What's normal and what's not

It can be difficult to tell the difference between ups and downs that are just part of being a teenager and teen depression. Talk with your teen. Try to determine whether he or she seems capable of managing challenging feelings, or if life seems overwhelming.

When to see a doctor

If depression signs and symptoms continue, begin to interfere in your teen's life, or cause you to have concerns about suicide or your teen's safety, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Your teen's family doctor or pediatrician is a good place to start. Or your teen's school may recommend someone.

Depression symptoms likely won't get better on their own - and they may get worse or lead to other problems if untreated. Depressed teenagers may be at risk of suicide, even if signs and symptoms don't appear to be severe.

If you're a teen and you think you may be depressed - or you have a friend who may be depressed - don't wait to get help. Talk to a health care provider such as your doctor or school nurse. Share your concerns with a parent, a close friend, a spiritual leader, a teacher or someone else you trust.

Symptoms

Suicide is often associated with depression. If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Also consider these options if you're having suicidal thoughts:

Call your mental health professional.

Contact a suicide hotline.

In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. The Spanish language phone line is 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free). Services are free and confidential.

Or contact a crisis service for teenagers in the U.S. called TXT 4 HELP: Text the word "safe" and your current location to 4HELP (44357) for immediate help, with the option for interactive texting.

Seek help from your primary care doctor or other health care provider.

Reach out to a close friend or loved one.

Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.

If a loved one or friend is in danger of attempting suicide or has made an attempt:

Make sure someone stays with that person.

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Or, if you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Never ignore comments or concerns about suicide. Always take action to get help.

Causes

It's not known exactly what causes depression, but a variety of issues may be involved. These include:

Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When these chemicals are abnormal or impaired, the function of nerve receptors and nerve systems changes, leading to depression.

Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression.

Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives - such as a parent or grandparent - also have the condition.

Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events during childhood, such as physical or emotional abuse, or loss of a parent, may cause changes in the brain that increase the risk of depression.

Learned patterns of negative thinking. Teen depression may be linked to learning to feel helpless - rather than learning to feel capable of finding solutions for life's challenges.

Risk factors

Many factors increase the risk of developing or triggering teen depression, including:

Having issues that negatively impact self-esteem, such as obesity, peer problems, long-term bullying or academic problems

Having been the victim or witness of violence, such as physical or sexual abuse

Having other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, a personality disorder, anorexia or bulimia

Having a learning disability or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Having ongoing pain or a chronic physical illness such as cancer, diabetes or asthma

Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical or pessimistic

Abusing alcohol, nicotine or other drugs

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender in an unsupportive environment

Family history and issues with family or others may also increase your teenager's risk of depression, such as:

Having a parent, grandparent or other blood relative with depression, bipolar disorder or alcohol use problems

Having a family member who died by suicide

Having a family with major communication and relationship problems

Having experienced recent stressful life events, such as parental divorce, parental military service or the death of a loved one

Complications

Untreated depression can result in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your teenager's life. Complications related to teen depression may include, for example:

Alcohol and drug misuse

Academic problems

Family conflicts and relationship difficulties

Suicide attempts or suicide

Prevention

There's no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help. Encourage your teenager to:

Take steps to control stress, increase resilience and boost self-esteem to help handle issues when they arise

Practice self-care, for example by creating a healthy sleep routine and using electronics responsibly and in moderation

Reach out for friendship and social support, especially in times of crisis

Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening

Maintain ongoing treatment, if recommended, even after symptoms let up, to help prevent a relapse of depression symptoms

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This serious mental health problem affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and can cause emotional, functional and physical problems.

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While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them.

Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships. Keep reading to understand self-esteem issues that may come up for your teenager and ways to help your child feel better about themselves and their capabilities.

This can help if you:

suspect your child is suffering from low self-esteem

want to learn how to build your child's self-esteem

would like to identify the causes of your child's low self-esteem.

Why your child's self-esteem is important

Positive self-esteem for teens is important as it allows them to try new things, take healthy risks and solve problems. In turn, their learning and development will be productive and will set them up for a healthy and positive future. A young person with healthy self-esteem is more likely to display positive behavioural characteristics, such as:

acting independent and mature

taking pride in their accomplishments/acheivements

accepting frustration and dealing with it responsibly

trying new things and challenges

helping others when possible

How can low self-esteem affect my child?

When someone has low self-esteem they tend to avoid situations where they think there's risk of failure, embarrassment or making mistakes. These can involve school work, making friends, and trying new activities, which are all important parts of a healthy teenage life.

If the low self-esteem is not identified and treated, then it can lead to problems such as:

relationship troubles or difficulty making friends

- negative moods such as feeling sad, anxious, ashamed or angry

low motivation

poor body image

earlier sexual activity

drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs to feel better

What can cause low self-esteem?

How a person feels about themselves is a result of their experiences and how they deal with situations. The most common causes of low self-esteem in teenagers are:

unsupportive parents, carers or others that play an influential role in their life

friends who are bad influences

stressful life events such as divorce or moving houses

trauma or abuse

poor performance at school or unrealistic goals

mood disorders such as depression

bullying or loneliness

ongoing medical issues

Signs of low self-esteem

A child with low self-esteem will more than likely be having negative thoughts about their worth and value as a person. Some general signs that your child has low self-esteem include:

avoiding new things and not taking up opportunities

feeling unloved and unwanted

blaming others for their own mistakes

- not being able to deal with normal levels of frustration

- negative self-talk and comparisons to others

fear of failure or embarrassment

difficulty making friends

low levels of motivation and interest

can't take compliments and shows mixed feelings of anxiety or stress.

There are things you can do to support your child to have positive self-esteem, but it's also important to remember that teenage self-esteem develops and changes quite frequently overtime. If your child doesn't show signs of positive self-esteem immediately, it doesn't necessarily mean you're doing something wrong!

You can help your child develop positive self-esteem with tips here.

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Self-esteem and teenagers - ReachOut Parents

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While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them. Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships.

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I think teens do but not all teens but yes they do suffer from self esteem and anxeity and depresstion and many other things

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Overview

Anorexia (an-o-REK-see-uh) nervosa - often simply called anorexia - is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of weight. People with anorexia place a high value on controlling their weight and shape, using extreme efforts that tend to significantly interfere with their lives.

To prevent weight gain or to continue losing weight, people with anorexia usually severely restrict the amount of food they eat. They may control calorie intake by vomiting after eating or by misusing laxatives, diet aids, diuretics or enemas. They may also try to lose weight by exercising excessively. No matter how much weight is lost, the person continues to fear weight gain.

Anorexia isn't really about food. It's an extremely unhealthy and sometimes life-threatening way to try to cope with emotional problems. When you have anorexia, you often equate thinness with self-worth.

Anorexia, like other eating disorders, can take over your life and can be very difficult to overcome. But with treatment, you can gain a better sense of who you are, return to healthier eating habits and reverse some of anorexia's serious complications.

Products & Services

Symptoms

The physical signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa are related to starvation. Anorexia also includes emotional and behavioral issues involving an unrealistic perception of body weight and an extremely strong fear of gaining weight or becoming fat.

It may be difficult to notice signs and symptoms because what is considered a low body weight is different for each person, and some individuals may not appear extremely thin. Also, people with anorexia often disguise their thinness, eating habits or physical problems.

Physical symptoms

Physical signs and symptoms of anorexia may include:

Extreme weight loss or not making expected developmental weight gains

Thin appearance

Abnormal blood counts

Fatigue

Insomnia

Dizziness or fainting

Bluish discoloration of the fingers

Hair that thins, breaks or falls out

Soft, downy hair covering the body

Absence of menstruation

Constipation and abdominal pain

Dry or yellowish skin

Intolerance of cold

Irregular heart rhythms

Low blood pressure

Dehydration

Swelling of arms or legs

Eroded teeth and calluses on the knuckles from induced vomiting

Some people who have anorexia binge and purge, similar to individuals who have bulimia. But people with anorexia generally struggle with an abnormally low body weight, while individuals with bulimia typically are normal to above normal weight.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms

Behavioral symptoms of anorexia may include attempts to lose weight by:

Severely restricting food intake through dieting or fasting

Exercising excessively

Bingeing and self-induced vomiting to get rid of food, which may include the use of laxatives, enemas, diet aids or herbal products

Emotional and behavioral signs and symptoms may include:

Preoccupation with food, which sometimes includes cooking elaborate meals for others but not eating them

Frequently skipping meals or refusing to eat

Denial of hunger or making excuses for not eating

Eating only a few certain "safe" foods, usually those low in fat and calories

Adopting rigid meal or eating rituals, such as spitting food out after chewing

Not wanting to eat in public

Lying about how much food has been eaten

Fear of gaining weight that may include repeated weighing or measuring the body

Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws

Complaining about being fat or having parts of the body that are fat

Covering up in layers of clothing

Flat mood (lack of emotion)

Social withdrawal

Irritability

Insomnia

Reduced interest in sex

When to see a doctor

Unfortunately, many people with anorexia don't want treatment, at least initially. Their desire to remain thin overrides concerns about their health. If you have a loved one you're worried about, urge her or him to talk to a doctor.

If you're experiencing any of the problems listed above, or if you think you may have an eating disorder, get help. If you're hiding your anorexia from loved ones, try to find a person you trust to talk to about what's going on.

Causes

The exact cause of anorexia is unknown. As with many diseases, it's probably a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.

Biological. Although it's not yet clear which genes are involved, there may be genetic changes that make some people at higher risk of developing anorexia. Some people may have a genetic tendency toward perfectionism, sensitivity and perseverance - all traits associated with anorexia.

Psychological. Some people with anorexia may have obsessive-compulsive personality traits that make it easier to stick to strict diets and forgo food despite being hungry. They may have an extreme drive for perfectionism, which causes them to think they're never thin enough. And they may have high levels of anxiety and engage in restrictive eating to reduce it.

Environmental. Modern Western culture emphasizes thinness. Success and worth are often equated with being thin. Peer pressure may help fuel the desire to be thin, particularly among young girls.

Risk factors

Anorexia is more common in girls and women. However, boys and men have increasingly developed eating disorders, possibly related to growing social pressures.

Anorexia is also more common among teenagers. Still, people of any age can develop this eating disorder, though it's rare in those over 40. Teens may be more at risk because of all the changes their bodies go through during puberty. They may also face increased peer pressure and be more sensitive to criticism or even casual comments about weight or body shape.

Certain factors increase the risk of anorexia, including:

Genetics. Changes in specific genes may put certain people at higher risk of anorexia. Those with a first-degree relative - a parent, sibling or child - who had the disorder have a much higher risk of anorexia.

Dieting and starvation. Dieting is a risk factor for developing an eating disorder. There is strong evidence that many of the symptoms of anorexia are actually symptoms of starvation. Starvation affects the brain and influences mood changes, rigidity in thinking, anxiety and reduction in appetite. Starvation and weight loss may change the way the brain works in vulnerable individuals, which may perpetuate restrictive eating behaviors and make it difficult to return to normal eating habits.

Transitions. Whether it's a new school, home or job; a relationship breakup; or the death or illness of a loved one, change can bring emotional stress and increase the risk of anorexia.

Complications

Anorexia can have numerous complications. At its most severe, it can be fatal. Death may occur suddenly - even when someone is not severely underweight. This may result from abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or an imbalance of electrolytes - minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium that maintain the balance of fluids in your body.

Other complications of anorexia include:

Anemia

Heart problems, such as mitral valve prolapse, abnormal heart rhythms or heart failure

Bone loss (osteoporosis), increasing the risk of fractures

Loss of muscle

In females, absence of a period

In males, decreased testosterone

Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, bloating or nausea

Electrolyte abnormalities, such as low blood potassium, sodium and chloride

Kidney problems

If a person with anorexia becomes severely malnourished, every organ in the body can be damaged, including the brain, heart and kidneys. This damage may not be fully reversible, even when the anorexia is under control.

In addition to the host of physical complications, people with anorexia also commonly have other mental health disorders as well. They may include:

Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders

Personality disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorders

Alcohol and substance misuse

Self-injury, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts

Prevention

There's no guaranteed way to prevent anorexia nervosa. Primary care physicians (pediatricians, family physicians and internists) may be in a good position to identify early indicators of anorexia and prevent the development of full-blown illness. For instance, they can ask questions about eating habits and satisfaction with appearance during routine medical appointments.

If you notice that a family member or friend has low self-esteem, severe dieting habits and dissatisfaction with appearance, consider talking to him or her about these issues. Although you may not be able to prevent an eating disorder from developing, you can talk about healthier behavior or treatment options.

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Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of body weight.

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Top 5 Signs of Depression I Psych Central

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If you think you may have depression, you can look here to find out the top 5 signs.

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What Are the Signs of Healthy or Low Self-Esteem?

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Self-esteem is your overall sense of personal value and self worth. Learn why it matters for motivation, success, and mental health.

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About 17.3 million adults in the US had at least one major depressive episode in the previous year.

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Did You Know?

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the US.

According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), about 17.3 million adults (=7.3% of all US adults) in the US had at least one major depressive episode in the previous year. About 11 million adults (=4.5% of all US adults) 'had at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment'. Rates of depression were higher among young adults between the ages of 18 and 25. About '35% of adults with major depressive episode did not receive treatment' (NIMH).

'Percent of office visits with depression indicated on the medical record: 9.3%' (CDC)

Nearly 21% of adults in the United States will go on to develop Major Depressive Disorder at some point in their lives (Hasin et al).

'Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide' (WHO).

The rates of depression have been rising among adolescents in the United States. Greater than 1 in 20 children age 6 to 17 in the United States, in 2011-2012, were found to have current anxiety or depression by parent report. (Bitsko et al 2018)

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2017, about 3.2 million adolescents age 12-17 years in the US (13.3 of all US teens ages 12 to 17) 'had at least one major depressive episode' (NIMH). About 60% of adolescents with a major depressive episode did not get treatment (NIMH).

ADAA Depression Website Pages

ADAA Depression Webinars and Blog Posts

ADAA Additional Resources

Community Resources
Content on this page was provided by ADAA member Richa Bhatia, MD, FAPA, Dual Board Certified Psychiatrist on November 2, 2020 References on this page:

https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsqreports/NSDUHDetailedTabs2017/NSDUHDetailedTabs2017.pdf. Accessed on Nov 1, 2020.

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml. Accessed on Nov 1, 2020.

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/depression.htm. Accessed on Oct 25, 2020.

Hasin DS, Sarvet AL, Meyers JL, et al. Epidemiology of Adult DSM-5 Major Depressive Disorder and Its Specifiers in the United States. JAMA Psychiatry. 2018;75(4):336-346. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.4602

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression. Accessed on Nov 1, 2020.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/chronic-illness-mental-health/index.shtml. Accessed on Oct 25, 2020.

Bitsko RH, Holbrook JR, Ghandour RM, et al. Epidemiology and Impact of Health Care Provider-Diagnosed Anxiety and Depression Among US Children. J Dev Behav Pediatr.
2018;39(5):395-403. doi:10.1097/DBP.0000000000000571

Katon WJ. Epidemiology and treatment of depression in patients with chronic medical illness. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2011;13(1):7-23.

Steffen, A., Nübel, J., Jacobi, F. et al. Mental and somatic comorbidity of depression: a comprehensive cross-sectional analysis of 202 diagnosis groups using German
nationwide ambulatory claims data. BMC Psychiatry 20, 142 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-02546-8

Van der Kooy K, van Hout H, Marwijk H, Marten H, Stehouwer C, Beekman A.Depression and the risk for cardiovascular diseases: systematic review and meta analysis. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2007 Jul;22(7):613-26. doi: 10.1002/gps.1723. PMID:17236251.

Spijkerman T, de Jonge P, van den Brink RH, Jansen JH, May JF, Crijns HJ, Ormel J. Depression following myocardial infarction: first-ever versus ongoing and recurrent episodes. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2005 Nov-Dec;27(6):411-7. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2005.05.007. PMID: 16271655.

Mezuk B, Eaton WW, Albrecht S, Golden SH. Depression and type 2 diabetes over the lifespan: a meta-analysis. Diabetes Care. 2008 Dec;31(12):2383-90. doi: 10.2337/dc08-0985. PMID: 19033418; PMCID: PMC2584200.

Oladeji BD, Gureje O. The comorbidity between depression and diabetes. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2013 Sep;15(9):390. doi: 10.1007/s11920-013-0390-3. PMID: 23933977.

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/mentalhealth/depression.htm. Accessed on Nov 1, 2020

Note: This website page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical or psychiatric advice or recommendations, or diagnostic or treatment opinion. This is not a complete review or description of this subject. If you suspect a medical or psychiatric condition, please consult a health care provider. All decisions regarding an individual's care must be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, considering the individuals' unique condition. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact the 24x7, confidential National Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or use the crisis text line by texting HOME to 741741 in the US, or go to http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html for the suicide hotline number for your country.

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Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the US. According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), about 17.3 million adults (=7.3% of all US adults) in the US had at least one major depressive episode in the previous year.

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Anxiety is a common and natural emotion, but it can also cause physical symptoms, such as shaking and sweating. Anxiety disorders can affect daily life but can often improve with treatment.

Anxiety disorders form a category of mental health diagnoses that lead to excessive nervousness, fear, apprehension, and worry.

This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatments for anxiety.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), around 40 million people in the United States have an anxiety disorder. It is the most common group of mental illnesses in the country. However, only 36.9% of people with an anxiety disorder receive treatment.

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines anxiety as "an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure."

Knowing the difference between typical feelings of anxiety and an anxiety disorder requiring medical attention can help a person identify and treat the condition.

Learn more about anxiety in our dedicated hub.

Anxiety and anxiety disorders

Anxiety is a complex response to real or perceived threats. It can involve cognitive, physical, and behavioral changes.

Real or perceived danger causes a rush of adrenaline, a hormone and chemical messenger in the brain, which in turn triggers these anxiety reactions in a process called the fight-or-flight response. Some people may experience this response in difficult social situations or around important events or decisions.

The duration or severity of feelings of anxiety can sometimes be out of proportion to the original trigger or stressor. Physical symptoms, such as increased blood pressure and nausea, may also develop. These responses move beyond anxiety into an anxiety disorder.

Once anxiety reaches the stage of a disorder, it can interfere with daily function.

Learn more about anxiety disorders here.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders: 5th Edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) classifies anxiety disorders into several main types.

In previous editions of the DSM-5-TR, anxiety disorders included obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as acute stress disorder. However, the manual no longer groups these mental health difficulties under anxiety.

Anxiety disorders now include the following:

GAD

This chronic disorder involves excessive, long lasting anxiety and worries about nonspecific life events, objects, and situations. GAD is the most common anxiety disorder, and people with it are not always able to identify the cause of their anxiety.
Learn more about GAD here.
Panic disorder

Brief or sudden attacks of intense terror and apprehension characterize panic disorder. These attacks can lead to shaking, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties. Panic attacks tend to occur and escalate rapidly.

Panic disorders usually occur after frightening experiences or prolonged stress but may also occur without a trigger.
Learn about panic disorder and panic attacks here.
Specific phobia

This is a fear and avoidance of a particular object or situation. Phobias are not like other anxiety disorders, as they relate to a specific cause.

A person with a phobia might acknowledge fear as illogical or extreme but remain unable to control feelings of anxiety around the trigger. Triggers for a phobia range from situations and animals to everyday objects.
Learn more about phobias and how they develop here.
Agoraphobia

This is a fear and avoidance of places, events, or situations from which it may be difficult to escape or where help would not be available in emergencies.

People often misunderstand this condition as a phobia of open spaces and the outdoors. A person with agoraphobia may fear leaving home or using elevators and public transport.
Learn more about agoraphobia here.
Selective mutism

Some children experience this form of anxiety, in which they cannot speak in certain places or contexts, even though they may have excellent verbal communication skills around familiar people.
Learn more about selective mutism in adults and children here.
Social anxiety disorder

This is a fear of adverse judgment from others in social situations or of public embarrassment. Social anxiety disorder includes a range of feelings, such as stage fright, a fear of intimacy, and anxiety around humiliation and rejection.
Learn more about social anxiety disorder.
Separation anxiety disorder

High anxiety levels after separation from a person or place that provides feelings of security or safety characterize separation anxiety disorder. Separation anxiety is most common in young children but can affect people of all ages.

Learn all about separation anxiety in adults here.

The causes of anxiety disorders are complicated. Many might occur at once, some may lead to others, and some might not lead to an anxiety disorder unless another is present.

Possible causes include:

environmental stressors, such as relationship problems or family issues

genetics

medical factors, such as disease symptoms or the effects of a medication

substance withdrawal

Learn more about anxiety and how it affects the body here.

Treatment often consists of psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and medication.

Sometimes, alcohol dependence, depression, or other underlying conditions require treatment before treating an anxiety disorder can take place.

Self-treatment

Sometimes, a person can treat an anxiety disorder at home without clinical supervision. However, this may not be effective for severe or long-term anxiety disorders.

There are several exercises and actions to help a person cope with milder, more focused, or shorter-term anxiety disorders, including:
Learn about some other ways to treat anxiety naturally.
Counseling

A standard way of treating anxiety is psychological counseling. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, or a combination of therapies.

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that aims to recognize and change harmful thought patterns that form the foundation of anxious and troublesome feelings.
Learn more about different types of therapy here.
Medications

A person can support anxiety management with several types of medication.

Medicines that might control some physical and mental symptoms include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Benzodiazepines: A doctor may prescribe these for certain people with anxiety, but they can cause addiction. Diazepam, or Valium, is a common benzodiazepine.

Antidepressants: These commonly help with anxiety, even though they also target depression. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), fluoxetine, and citalopram are examples.

Tricyclic antidepressants: These are an older class of drugs that benefit most anxiety disorders other than obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Imipramine and clomipramine are two examples of tricyclics.

Additional drugs a person might use to treat anxiety include:

Seek medical advice if the adverse effects of any prescribed medications become severe.
Learn more about anxiety medications here.
There are ways to reduce the risk of anxiety disorders. Remember that anxious feelings are a natural factor of daily life, and experiencing them does not always indicate the presence of a mental health disorder.

People may benefit from the following:
Learn about some foods that can help prevent anxiety.
Anxiety is not a medical condition but a natural emotion that is vital for survival when an individual faces danger.

An anxiety disorder develops when this reaction becomes exaggerated or out-of-proportion to the trigger that causes it. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, phobias, and social anxiety.

Treatment involves a combination of therapy, medication, and counseling alongside self-help measures.

An active lifestyle with a balanced diet can help keep anxious emotions within healthy limits.

Read the article in Spanish.

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Anxiety: Symptoms, types, causes, prevention, and treatment

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Anxiety is a common and natural emotion, but it can also cause physical symptoms, such as shaking and sweating. Anxiety disorders can affect daily life but can often improve with treatment. Anxiety disorders form a category of mental health diagnoses that lead to excessive nervousness, fear, apprehension, and worry.

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Self-esteem is important because that's how one mesures self worth.

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Fighting to Live: Self-Esteem and Homeless Youth

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Self-esteem is important because that’s how one measures self-worth. According to Jane Mosley’s paper, Poverty, Welfare Receipt and Adolescent Self-Esteem at the Center for Demography and Ecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison - 1995 (PDF | 51.3 KB), self-esteem has three components. The com…

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EEEEEE - YouTube

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https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/data.html/

Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

15.1% had a major depressive episode.²

Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

15.1% had a major depressive episode.²

Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

15.1% had a major depressive episode.²

15.1% had a major depressive episode.²

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Mental health is an important part of children's overall health and well-being. Mental health includes children's mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. It affects how children think, feel, and act. It also plays a role in how children handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Mental disorders among children are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, causing distress and problems getting through the day. Among the more common mental disorders that can be diagnosed in childhood are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and behavior disorders.

There are different ways to assess mental health and mental disorders in children. CDC uses surveys, like the National Survey of Children's Health, to describe the presence of positive indicators of children's mental health and to understand the number of children with diagnosed mental disorders and whether they received treatment. In this type of survey, parents report on indicators of positive mental health for their child and report any diagnoses their child has received from a healthcare provider. The information on this page provides data about indicators of positive mental health in children and mental health disorders that are most common in children.

Facts about mental health in U.S. children

National data on positive mental health indicators that describe mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being for children are limited. Based on the data we do have:

Facts about mental disorders in U.S. children

ADHD, anxiety problems, behavior problems, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Estimates for ever having a diagnosis among children aged 3-17 years, in 2016-19, are given below.

ADHD 9.8% (approximately 6.0 million)

Anxiety 9.4% (approximately 5.8 million)

Behavior problems 8.9% (approximately 5.5 million)

Depression 4.4% (approximately 2.7 million)

Some of these conditions commonly occur together. For example, among children aged 3-17 years in 2016:

Having another mental disorder was most common in children with depression: about 3 in 4 children with depression also had anxiety (73.8%) and almost 1 in 2 had behavior problems (47.2%).

For children with anxiety, more than 1 in 3 also had behavior problems (37.9%) and about 1 in 3 also had depression (32.3%).

For children with behavior problems, more than 1 in 3 also had anxiety (36.6%) and about 1 in 5 also had depression (20.3%).

For adolescents, depression, substance use and suicide are important concerns. Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

Learn more about high-risk substance use among youth. Learn more about suicide.

Mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood
1 in 6 U.S. children aged 2-8 years (17.4%) had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.

Prevalence of mental disorders change with age

Diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety, and depression become are more common with increased age.

Behavior problems are more common among children aged 6-11 years than younger or older children.

Adverse childhood events (ACEs) are associated with children's physical and mental health. In 2016-2019, among children aged 6-17 years:

Children who were discriminated against based on race or ethnicity had higher percentages of one or more physical health conditions (37.8% versus 27.1%), and one or more mental health conditions (28.9% versus 17.8%).

Racial/ethnic discrimination was almost seven times as common among children with three other ACEs compared to those with no other ACEs.

Note: The estimates reported on this page are based on parent report, using nationally representative surveys. This method has several limitations. It is not known to what extent children receive these diagnoses accurately. Estimates based on parent-reported diagnoses may match those based on medical records, but some children may also have mental disorders that have not been diagnosed, or receive diagnoses that may not be the best fit for their symptoms. Limited information on measuring children's mental health nationally is available.

Read more about children's mental health from a community study.

Access to mental health treatment

Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Access to providers who can offer services, including screening, referrals, and treatment, varies by location. CDC is working to learn more about access to behavioral health services and supports for children and their families.
View information by state describing the rates of different types of providers who can offer behavioral health services providers by county. Read a recent report describing shortages of services, barriers to treatment, and how integration of behavioral health care with pediatric primary care could address the issues. Read a policy brief on potential ways to increase access to mental health services for children in rural areas
Data sources for mental health and related conditions

There are many different datasets which include information on children's mental health and related conditions for children living in the United States.

Healthy People 2030
Healthy People 2030 sets data-driven national objectives to improve health and well-being over the next decade, including children's mental health and well-being.

National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG)
NSFG gathers information on family life, marriage and divorce, pregnancy, infertility, use of contraception, and general and reproductive health.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
NHANES assesses health and nutritional status through interviews and physical examinations, and includes conditions, symptoms, and concerns associated with mental health and substance abuse, as well as the use and need for mental health services.

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)
NHIS collects data on children's mental health, mental disorders, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, depression and anxiety problems, and use and need for mental health services.

National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH)
NSCH examines the health of children, with emphasis on well-being, including medical homes, family interactions, the health of parents, school and after-school experiences, and safe neighborhoods. This survey was redesigned in 2016.

For previous versions of this survey, see also:
National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH 2003, 2007, 2011-12)
National Survey of Children with Special Healthcare Needs (NS-CSHCN 2001, 2005-6, 2009-10)

National Survey of the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD and Tourette Syndrome (NS-DATA)
NS-DATA collects information about children, 2-15 years old in 2011-2012, who had ever been diagnosed with ADHD and/or Tourette syndrome (TS), with the goal of better understanding diagnostic practices, level of impairment, and treatments for this group of children.

National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)
NSDUH, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), provides national- and state-level data on the use of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs (including non-medical use of prescription drugs), as well as data on mental health in the United States.

National Vital Statistics System (NVSS)
NVSS contains vital statistics from the official records of live births, deaths, causes of death, marriages, divorces, and annulment recorded by states and independent registration areas

National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS)
NYTS is a nationally representative school-based survey on tobacco use by public school students enrolled in grades 6-12.

School Associated Violent Death Study (SAVD)
SAVD plays an important role in monitoring trends related to school-associated violent deaths (including suicide), identifying the factors that increase the risk, and assessing the effects of prevention efforts.

School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS)
SHPPS is a national survey assessing school health policies and practices at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. Collected data includes mental health and social service policies.

Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS)
WISQARS is an interactive database system that provides customized reports of injury-related data.

Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
The YRBSS monitors health-risk behaviors, including tobacco use, substance abuse, unintentional injuries and violence, sexual behaviors that contribute to unintended pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases.

References

1. Perou R, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ, Pastor P, Ghandour RM, Gfroerer JC, Hedden SL, Crosby AE, Visser SN, Schieve LA, Parks SE, Hall JE, Brody D, Simile CM, Thompson WW, Baio J, Avenevoli S, Kogan MD, Huang LN. Mental health surveillance among children - United States, 2005-2011. MMWR 2013;62(Suppl; May 16, 2013):1-35. [Read summary]

2. Bitsko RH, Claussen AH, Lichtstein J, Black LJ, Everett Jones S, Danielson MD, Hoenig JM, Davis Jack SP, Brody DJ, Gyawali S, Maenner MM, Warner M, Holland KM, Perou R, Crosby AE, Blumberg SJ, Avenevoli S, Kaminski JW, Ghandour RM. Surveillance of Children's Mental Health - United States, 2013 - 2019 MMWR, , 2022 / 71(Suppl-2);1-42. [Read article]

3. Ghandour RM, Sherman LJ, Vladutiu CJ, Ali MM, Lynch SE, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ. Prevalence and treatment of depression, anxiety, and conduct problems in U.S. children. The Journal of Pediatrics, 2018. Published online before print October 12, 2018 [Read summary]

4. Bitsko RH, Holbrook JR, Ghandour RM, Blumberg SJ, Visser SN, Perou R, Walkup J. Epidemiology and impact of healthcare provider diagnosed anxiety and depression among US children. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Published online before print April 24, 2018 [Read summary]

5. Cree RA, Bitsko RH, Robinson LR, Holbrook JR, Danielson ML, Smith DS, Kaminski JW, Kenney MK, Peacock G. Health care, family, and community factors associated with mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders and poverty among children aged 2-8 years - United States, 2016. MMWR, 2018;67(5):1377-1383. [Read article]

6. Hutchins HJ, Barry CM, Valentine V, Bacon S, Njai R, Claussen AH, Ghandour RM, Lebrun-Harris LA, Perkins K, Robinson LR (submitted). Perceived racial/ethnic discrimination, physical and mental health conditions in childhood, and the relative role of other adverse experiences. Adversity and Resilience Science published online May 23, 2022. [Read summary]

7. US Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration & Maternal and Child Health Bureau. Mental health: A report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services, and National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health; 1999. [Read report]

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Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health | CDC

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Read data highlights about children's mental health.

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Yes based on my reserch teens suffer of bad depression, eating disoreders, self-esteem and anxitey.

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https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/emotional-problems/Pages/Anxiety-Disorders.aspx

According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 1 in 3 of all adolescents ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder. These numbers have been rising steadily; between 2007 and 2012, anxiety disorders in children and teens went up 20%.

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By: Claire McCarthy, MD, FAAP

According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 1 in 3 of all adolescents ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder. These numbers have been rising steadily; between 2007 and 2012, anxiety disorders in children and teens went up 20%.

These stats combined with the rate of hospital admissions for suicidal teenagers also doubling over the past decade leaves us with many concerning questions.

What's causing the rise in teenagers with severe anxiety? How did we get here?

What's going on? While we don't know for sure, there are a number of factors that could be contributing. In addition to genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events, take the following into consideration:

High expectations and pressure to succeed. Between standardized testing and aculture of achievement, today's youth can feel pressure to succeed in ways previous generations did not. A survey done every year byHigher Education Research asks incoming college freshmen if they feel overwhelmed by all they have to do. In 2016, 41% of students said "yes" compared with 28% in 2000 and 18% in 1985.

A world that feels scary and threatening. We've seen an increase in school shootings, with resultant drills and lockdowns in schools. We've seen shootings in public places. There have been terrorist attacks here in the US and around the world taking many lives. From just watching or reading the news, it is reasonable for anyone to feel afraid in public spaces that previously would have felt safe.

Social media. Today's children and teens are constantly connected to social media. It's not surprising that their self-esteem―and worldview ―becomes connected to responses to social media posts. It's hard for them not to compare their life and social connections to what they see others posting on social media.

There are also some children who have unexpected and disproportionate reactions to normal developmental experiences like going to school, going to a party, doing a sleepover or going to camp; children who worry excessively about everyday life activities. This often starts in the years right before puberty.

Whatever the cause, this rise in anxiety is a real problem for our youth.

Chronic anxiety can lead to serious mental health problems― depression, substance use, and even suicide. It can interfere with the ability to focus and learn causing school problems that can have lifelong impact. It can also lead to physical problems, such as headaches, chronic pain, digestive problems, and later heart disease.

Anxiety disorders cut across all demographics―suburban, urban, and rural. They affect those who are college-bound and those who are not.

Be aware of the signs of anxiety. Sometimes children may say that they are anxious, but other times it is less clear―especially as they may not even realize it themselves. Signs can include:

Recurring fears and worries abo ut routine parts of every day life

Changes in behavior, such as irritability

Avoiding activities, school, or social interactions

Dropping grades or school avoidance

Trouble sleeping or concentrating

Substance use or other risky behaviors

Chronic physical complaints, such as fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches.

Talk with kids about potential stressors. Try to see the world the way they do-and help them to keep perspective and find ways to cope.

Be mindful of the expectations you set for children and teens. High expectations can help children reach their potential, but they need to be realistic ones. Not only that, remember that kids need time to relax, play, and be with friends-all of which are crucial for their mental and physical health. And it's important for all of us to remember that there is more to life than achievement.

Talk with kids about their social media use. Help them take breaks-and help them think critically and rationally about the effect of social media on their lives. See How to Connect with Your Teen about Smart & Safe Media Use.

So, what can parents, teachers, and anyone else who interacts with children and teens do?

How pediatricians screen kids for anxiety:

At visits―whether they are well child visits or appointments made because of a concern―pediatricians ask questions about a child's physical complaints, mood, behavior and activities, as well as what is going on at school, at home, and in other areas of life.

Pediatricians also use screening tools such as the Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC) that look for signs of various different mental health problems, including anxiety. Pediatricians often refer to mental health professionals, as well, in order to more fully evaluate children when there is a concern.

Know anxiety is treatable!

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 80% of kids with a diagnosable anxiety disorder are not getting treatment―and anxiety disorders are highly treatable! As with most problems, the earlier it is diagnosed the easier it is to treat.

CBT focuses on changing how the child thinks about his fear, increasing exposure to feared situations, and relaxation strategies such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and positive self‐talk (repeating positive or reassuring statements to oneself). Exposure therapy, a type of CBT, focuses on increasing exposure to feared objects or activities.

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) ―commonly prescribed antidepressants―are the medications most frequently used for treating anxiety disorders in children.

The most effective treatments with for anxiety disorders are cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) and SSRI medications.

Studies have found a combination of CBT and medication for 12 weeks yields a positive response in 80% of children with anxiety disorders. In fact, 65% of those children had no or minimal anxiety symptoms after the 12 weeks of treatment. With CBT alone, 60% had a positive response―about 35% of those children having no or minimal anxiety symptoms. However, it is important to note that SSRI medications can be administered safely and be an important part of child's anxiety disorder treatment.

As with any mental health disorder, anything that supports general wellbeing is an important part of anxiety disorder treatment―regular sleep, exercise, meditation, relaxation apps or yoga can be helpful. However, these are not a substitute for CBT or medication.

The most important thing is to be aware of your children's mental health, ask questions, and ask for help!

Additional Information:

About Dr. McCarthy:

Claire McCarthy, MD, FAAP is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children's Hospital, an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, a senior editor for Harvard Health Publications, and an official spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics. She writes about health and parenting for the Harvard Health Blog, Huffington Post and many other online and print publications.

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anxiety~ anxiety disorders~ anxious teen~ anxiety in teen~ ocd~ ptsd~ trauma~ mental health disorder~ suicide~ teen mental health~ teen social media~ mental illness~ teen nervous~ adolescent mental health~ screening for anxiety~ anxiety treatment

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Anxiety in Teens is Rising: What's Going On?

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The number of teens with anxiety disorders has been rising steadily―along with hospital admissions for teens who are suicidal. This leaves parents, teachers, and anyone who interacts with these kids with many concerning questions. Read on.

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https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-teens-and-self-esteem

Over 70% of girls age 15 to 17 avoid normal daily activities, such as attending school, when they feel bad about their looks.

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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https://polaristeen.com/articles/10-statistics-of-teenage-eating-disorders/

1. 4% of adolescents and teens, ages 13 to 18, suffer from an anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.

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Polaris Teen Center: Premier Adolescent Treatment Center in Los Angeles

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The adolescent and teenage years are a time of growth and transformation, physically, mentally and biologically. In moving towards adulthood, young people begin to discover who they are. Independent of parents, they begin to establish friendships and go through puberty. There are obvious physical changes associated with adolescence and puberty. But a large amount of internal change also occurs. Adolescent eating disorder statistics show 2.7% of teens in the U.S. between 13 and 18 years old have an eating disorder. For many teenagers, entering into puberty can be a time wrought with intense emotions, confusion, and stress. This period of change is what makes teens susceptible to developing eating disorders.

Adolescent eating disorders (such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive overeating) are concerns every parent hopes to avoid. Yet, because so many young people struggle with eating disorders, it is important to know the facts.

4% of adolescents and teens, ages 13 to 18, suffer from an anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.

Anorexia is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder affecting many teenagers. Those who suffer from anorexia go to extreme lengths to control their food intake. Or, worse, they avoid eating altogether. Additionally, those with anorexia also have a distorted body image. They still feel "fat," regardless of how thin they become.

Teenagers with bulimia typically binge (periods of uncontrollable overeating) and purge (self-induce vomiting). Inducing vomiting is the most common compensatory behavior. But there are others, such as laxatives or excessive exercise.

Binge-eating disorder is characterized by excessive eating. Many teens who suffer from binge-eating disorder describe feeling like they have no control over their behavior. They also experience intense guilt and shame following a binge.

50% of teens with anorexia will develop bulimia or binge-eating disorder

Anorexia is an eating disorder marked by significantly restricting caloric intake due to intense fear of weight gain. Teens with anorexia engage in some level of self-starvation. This extreme dietary restriction often leads to another eating disorder, such as bulimia or binge-eating disorder. Long periods of malnutrition take a toll on the body's systems and organs. This, along with experiencing hunger cues and pains, can eventually lead a teen to "giving in" to the desire for food. And like the extreme nature of the restricting, once a teenager begins to eat again, it can be extreme as well (such as binging).

90% of teens with anorexia are female

Anorexia most commonly emerges in the adolescent and teenage years. This eating disorder develops from a number of factors including, for some, the onset of dieting, converge. While dieting does not cause anorexia, the reduction in calories dieting entails often triggers the disorder. Especially in those who are genetically predisposed to it.

The average amount spent on eating disorder research per affected individual is .93¢

In comparison, $44 per affected individual is spent on autism research. Schizophrenia research spends $81 per affected individual. Lastly, $88 is spent on Alzheimer's disease research per affected individual.

Young women with anorexia are 12 times more likely to die than women the same age who do not have anorexia.

Anorexia nervosa is the third most common chronic illness among adolescent and teenage girls. Anorexia also has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder.

50% of teenage girls and 30% of teenage boys use unhealthy weight control behaviors.

Some of these behaviors include skipping meals, fasting, smoking cigarettes, purging (throwing up), taking laxatives, over-exercising, taking diet pills, hiding food, and drinking highly caffeinated energy drinks.

50% of teens with an eating disorder also suffer from depression

Depression may lead to eating disorders in teenagers, but in many cases, the eating disorder itself is what triggers depression. Malnourishment causes physiological changes in the brain that can affect emotion regulation and mood.

69% of females (ages 10 to 18) state that photographs of models and celebrities in the media motivated their "ideal" body shape.

The rate at which teens are becoming aware of their body shape and size is getting younger and younger, and media plays a big part in this. Many teenagers site media as being on of the biggest influencers when it comes to body image (how one perceives his or her body when looking in the mirror). In the United States, media and overall popular culture strongly idealize thinness, and adolescents and teens are amongst the population most strongly influenced, especially with the popularity of social media. Unfortunately, the substantial influence the media plays in teenagers lives leads many (even teens with a normal body weight), are still susceptible to viewing themselves as "overweight" or "fat". The importance placed on thinness in the media can create a desire to achieve the impossible in terms of body shape and size, and can obviously become a trigger to dieting and weight loss.

In this day and age, being concerned with weight and body size is incredibly common, especially amongst adolescent and teenaged girls. Adolescence is when bodies begin to change, and there is an increased awareness of media and peer pressures. Couple this with a lack of knowledge around nutrition, and many teenage girls are engaging in some very risky dietary behaviors as a way to cope with body dissatisfaction. Although all teenage girls are susceptible, there are certain risk factors that make some more likely to use dangerous diets including:

Family factors - low family connectedness, absent or neglectful parents, or dieting amongst parents can all contribute to increasing a teenage girl's risk of engaging in dieting behavior.

Environmental factors - poor school involvement, bullying/teasing by peers (especially around weight-related issues), or participation in a sport that is weight-focused will likely make a teen more prone to using diets.

Individual factors - being female alone increasing one's inclination towards dieting. Other individual factors include low self-esteem, early puberty, being overweight or obese, or practicing vegetarianism.

How many teen boys actually have eating disorders? Boys make up approximately 10 to 15% of the adolescent and teenage population with eating disorders, but are much less likely to seek treatment due to the gender stereotypes surrounding the disorders.

Many people believe that an eating disorder is a "female" problem. And while more common in girls and women, eating disorders do affect males as well. Because there is far more discussion about teenage girls and eating disorders, many teen boys are reluctant to discuss their symptoms or admit they have a problem. For some, there may be fear of appearing less masculine, or being judged by friends and peers. This unfortunately prevents many male teenagers from getting the help they need.

Involvement in certain athletic activities - such as bodybuilding, wrestling, swimming, and gymnastics all increase a teenage boy's chances of developing an eating disorder. This is because these are sports where weight control can influence performance, and coaches often encourage maintaining a certain weight range.

Sexual orientation - homosexual males or males questioning their sexual identity are at an increased risk of struggling with an eating disorder.

Being overweight - teenage boys who are currently overweight, or were overweight as children are more prone to eating disorders. This is especially true if a bullying and/or teasing is involved.

Parental dieting - parents model behaviors to their children, whether they intend to or not. Thus, teenage boys who see one or both parents using restrictive diets to lose weight may begin to practice similar behavior.

While it is possible for any boy to develop an eating disorder throughout his adolescent and teenage years, there are certain factors that increase one's likelihood including:

If you think your teen may be struggling with an eating disorder, contact Polaris Teen at (844) 836-0222 to find out more about residential treatment options for your son or daughter.

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10 Statistics of Teenage Eating Disorders

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Many young people struggle with eating disorders. If you think your teen falls into this category, discover how you can help support them. Read here

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Depression affects 4.4% of U.S. children (approximately 2.7 million)²

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Mental health is an important part of children's overall health and well-being. Mental health includes children's mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. It affects how children think, feel, and act. It also plays a role in how children handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Mental disorders among children are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, causing distress and problems getting through the day. Among the more common mental disorders that can be diagnosed in childhood are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and behavior disorders.

There are different ways to assess mental health and mental disorders in children. CDC uses surveys, like the National Survey of Children's Health, to describe the presence of positive indicators of children's mental health and to understand the number of children with diagnosed mental disorders and whether they received treatment. In this type of survey, parents report on indicators of positive mental health for their child and report any diagnoses their child has received from a healthcare provider. The information on this page provides data about indicators of positive mental health in children and mental health disorders that are most common in children.

Facts about mental health in U.S. children

National data on positive mental health indicators that describe mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being for children are limited. Based on the data we do have:

Facts about mental disorders in U.S. children

ADHD, anxiety problems, behavior problems, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Estimates for ever having a diagnosis among children aged 3-17 years, in 2016-19, are given below.

ADHD 9.8% (approximately 6.0 million)

Anxiety 9.4% (approximately 5.8 million)

Behavior problems 8.9% (approximately 5.5 million)

Depression 4.4% (approximately 2.7 million)

Some of these conditions commonly occur together. For example, among children aged 3-17 years in 2016:

Having another mental disorder was most common in children with depression: about 3 in 4 children with depression also had anxiety (73.8%) and almost 1 in 2 had behavior problems (47.2%).

For children with anxiety, more than 1 in 3 also had behavior problems (37.9%) and about 1 in 3 also had depression (32.3%).

For children with behavior problems, more than 1 in 3 also had anxiety (36.6%) and about 1 in 5 also had depression (20.3%).

For adolescents, depression, substance use and suicide are important concerns. Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

Learn more about high-risk substance use among youth. Learn more about suicide.

Mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood
1 in 6 U.S. children aged 2-8 years (17.4%) had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.

Prevalence of mental disorders change with age

Diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety, and depression become are more common with increased age.

Behavior problems are more common among children aged 6-11 years than younger or older children.

Adverse childhood events (ACEs) are associated with children's physical and mental health. In 2016-2019, among children aged 6-17 years:

Children who were discriminated against based on race or ethnicity had higher percentages of one or more physical health conditions (37.8% versus 27.1%), and one or more mental health conditions (28.9% versus 17.8%).

Racial/ethnic discrimination was almost seven times as common among children with three other ACEs compared to those with no other ACEs.

Note: The estimates reported on this page are based on parent report, using nationally representative surveys. This method has several limitations. It is not known to what extent children receive these diagnoses accurately. Estimates based on parent-reported diagnoses may match those based on medical records, but some children may also have mental disorders that have not been diagnosed, or receive diagnoses that may not be the best fit for their symptoms. Limited information on measuring children's mental health nationally is available.

Read more about children's mental health from a community study.

Access to mental health treatment

Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Access to providers who can offer services, including screening, referrals, and treatment, varies by location. CDC is working to learn more about access to behavioral health services and supports for children and their families.
View information by state describing the rates of different types of providers who can offer behavioral health services providers by county. Read a recent report describing shortages of services, barriers to treatment, and how integration of behavioral health care with pediatric primary care could address the issues. Read a policy brief on potential ways to increase access to mental health services for children in rural areas
Data sources for mental health and related conditions

There are many different datasets which include information on children's mental health and related conditions for children living in the United States.

Healthy People 2030
Healthy People 2030 sets data-driven national objectives to improve health and well-being over the next decade, including children's mental health and well-being.

National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG)
NSFG gathers information on family life, marriage and divorce, pregnancy, infertility, use of contraception, and general and reproductive health.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
NHANES assesses health and nutritional status through interviews and physical examinations, and includes conditions, symptoms, and concerns associated with mental health and substance abuse, as well as the use and need for mental health services.

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)
NHIS collects data on children's mental health, mental disorders, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, depression and anxiety problems, and use and need for mental health services.

National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH)
NSCH examines the health of children, with emphasis on well-being, including medical homes, family interactions, the health of parents, school and after-school experiences, and safe neighborhoods. This survey was redesigned in 2016.

For previous versions of this survey, see also:
National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH 2003, 2007, 2011-12)
National Survey of Children with Special Healthcare Needs (NS-CSHCN 2001, 2005-6, 2009-10)

National Survey of the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD and Tourette Syndrome (NS-DATA)
NS-DATA collects information about children, 2-15 years old in 2011-2012, who had ever been diagnosed with ADHD and/or Tourette syndrome (TS), with the goal of better understanding diagnostic practices, level of impairment, and treatments for this group of children.

National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)
NSDUH, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), provides national- and state-level data on the use of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs (including non-medical use of prescription drugs), as well as data on mental health in the United States.

National Vital Statistics System (NVSS)
NVSS contains vital statistics from the official records of live births, deaths, causes of death, marriages, divorces, and annulment recorded by states and independent registration areas

National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS)
NYTS is a nationally representative school-based survey on tobacco use by public school students enrolled in grades 6-12.

School Associated Violent Death Study (SAVD)
SAVD plays an important role in monitoring trends related to school-associated violent deaths (including suicide), identifying the factors that increase the risk, and assessing the effects of prevention efforts.

School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS)
SHPPS is a national survey assessing school health policies and practices at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. Collected data includes mental health and social service policies.

Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS)
WISQARS is an interactive database system that provides customized reports of injury-related data.

Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
The YRBSS monitors health-risk behaviors, including tobacco use, substance abuse, unintentional injuries and violence, sexual behaviors that contribute to unintended pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases.

References

1. Perou R, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ, Pastor P, Ghandour RM, Gfroerer JC, Hedden SL, Crosby AE, Visser SN, Schieve LA, Parks SE, Hall JE, Brody D, Simile CM, Thompson WW, Baio J, Avenevoli S, Kogan MD, Huang LN. Mental health surveillance among children - United States, 2005-2011. MMWR 2013;62(Suppl; May 16, 2013):1-35. [Read summary]

2. Bitsko RH, Claussen AH, Lichtstein J, Black LJ, Everett Jones S, Danielson MD, Hoenig JM, Davis Jack SP, Brody DJ, Gyawali S, Maenner MM, Warner M, Holland KM, Perou R, Crosby AE, Blumberg SJ, Avenevoli S, Kaminski JW, Ghandour RM. Surveillance of Children's Mental Health - United States, 2013 - 2019 MMWR, , 2022 / 71(Suppl-2);1-42. [Read article]

3. Ghandour RM, Sherman LJ, Vladutiu CJ, Ali MM, Lynch SE, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ. Prevalence and treatment of depression, anxiety, and conduct problems in U.S. children. The Journal of Pediatrics, 2018. Published online before print October 12, 2018 [Read summary]

4. Bitsko RH, Holbrook JR, Ghandour RM, Blumberg SJ, Visser SN, Perou R, Walkup J. Epidemiology and impact of healthcare provider diagnosed anxiety and depression among US children. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Published online before print April 24, 2018 [Read summary]

5. Cree RA, Bitsko RH, Robinson LR, Holbrook JR, Danielson ML, Smith DS, Kaminski JW, Kenney MK, Peacock G. Health care, family, and community factors associated with mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders and poverty among children aged 2-8 years - United States, 2016. MMWR, 2018;67(5):1377-1383. [Read article]

6. Hutchins HJ, Barry CM, Valentine V, Bacon S, Njai R, Claussen AH, Ghandour RM, Lebrun-Harris LA, Perkins K, Robinson LR (submitted). Perceived racial/ethnic discrimination, physical and mental health conditions in childhood, and the relative role of other adverse experiences. Adversity and Resilience Science published online May 23, 2022. [Read summary]

7. US Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration & Maternal and Child Health Bureau. Mental health: A report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services, and National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health; 1999. [Read report]

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Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health | CDC

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Read data highlights about children's mental health.

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https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-teens-and-self-esteem

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/teen-eating-disorder-statistics/

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Eating disorders in teens are caused by many factors. Many blame the media first as a big culprit. Statistics show that the media does have an impact on one's obsession with weight. Television ads feature processed foods, commercials sell weight-loss supplements, and celebrity news glorifies famous thin people. Weight-loss strategies are often to help people achieve the body shape they want. But they have adverse effects on people who suffer from low self-esteem. Hence, this can eventually lead to an eating disorder. Overall, eating disorders affect about 30 million people of all ages, both male and female. However, these disorders are most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 12 and 25.

There are Multiple Types of Eating Disorders in Teens

Teen eating disorders cover a wide variety of problems. Anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating are the most common terms. With anorexia, patients often starve themselves or limit the type and quantity of food they eat. The idea is to maintain the body shape they perceive to be "perfect". Bulimia takes the same mentality to another extreme. These sufferers purge the food they eat by using laxatives, diuretics, or vomiting. This act is often followed by binge eating, and then purging again. This can tur into a cyclic pattern.

Binge-eating is characteristic of those who do not feel any control over their eating. They consume large amounts of food in one sitting but do not purge the food. As a result, these patients are typically obese or overweight. The shame associated with their binge-eating often spurs more eating and the addictive cycle continues.

Teen Eating Disorders Require Help

Unhealthy weight control habits are rampant among approximately half of all teenage girls and roughly 33% of boys, according to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). These bad habits include vomiting, smoking cigarettes, fasting, taking laxatives, and skipping meals.

The concern for these patients is heightened. This is because teen eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia nervosa, can lead to death. In fact, for females between the ages of 15 and 24, the mortality rate of anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than the rate linked to any other cause of death. Therefore, of all mental illnesses, eating disorders have been proven to show the highest mortality rate.

There are no clear reasons as to the cause of these teen eating disorders. In addition, most researchers point to a combination of psychological, genetic, biological, and social factors. Therefore, these disorders can often be a product of other mental illnesses. These may include depression or anxiety, and could be the byproduct of a substance abuse problem.

With the help of treatment programs dedicated to help teen eating disorders, there is hope for healing. Treatment programs include psychotherapists, medication, and even nutritional counseling. Many patients have been able to overcome their negative self-perceptions, but for others, the disorder is an ongoing battle, even while in treatment. The National Institution of Mental Health continues to conduct trials and further research to better understand teen eating disorders, and how to prevent them from affecting today's youth. This research, and the work of organizations like NEDA, could be the key to stopping this epidemic in its tracks.
Image courtesy of Unsplash.

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Teen Eating Disorders & What You Need to Know

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Eating disorders in teens are caused by many factors. Many blame the media first as a big culprit. Statistics show that the media does have an impact on one's obsession with weight. Television ads feature processed foods, commercials sell weight-loss supplements, and celebrity news glorifies famous thin people.

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"Eating disorders are problems that affect a person’s eating behaviors as well as their attitudes and feelings about food — and about their body." and "Eating disorders affect a person’s mental health and can cause serious harm to a person’s physical health." from Nemours Teens Health, or Kids Health.

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What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are problems that affect a person's eating behaviors as well as their attitudes and feelings about food - and about their body.

Eating disorders affect a person's mental health and can cause serious harm to a person's physical health.

There are several types of eating disorders.

What Are the Different Types of Eating Disorders?

Common types of eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).

Anorexia. People with anorexia:

eat very little on purpose, leading to a very low body weight

have an intense fear of weight gain and fear looking fat

have a distorted body image and see themselves as fat even when they are very thin

People with anorexia are very strict about what and how much they will eat. They may think about food or calories almost all the time.

To lose weight, some people with anorexia fast or exercise too much. Others may use laxatives, diuretics (water pills), or enemas.

Bulimia. People with bulimia:

overeat and feel out of control to stop, called binge eating

do things to make up for overeating, such as:

make themselves throw up on purpose after overeating, called purging

use laxatives, diuretics, weight loss pills, fast, or exercise a lot to prevent weight gain

judge themselves based on body shape and weight

People with bulimia eat much more (during a set period of time) than most people would. If a person regularly binges and purges, it may be a sign of bulimia. Unlike people with anorexia who are very low weight, people with bulimia may be thin, average weight, or overweight. People with bulimia often hide their eating and purging from others.

Binge eating. People with binge eating disorder:

overeat and feel out of control to stop

eat large amounts even when they are not hungry

may feel upset or guilty after binge eating

often gain weight and may become very overweight

Many people with binge eating disorder eat faster than normal. They may eat alone so others don't see how much they are eating. Unlike people with bulimia, those with binge eating disorder do not make themselves throw up, use laxatives, or exercise a lot to make up for binge eating. If a person binge eats at least once a week for 3 months, it may be a sign of binge eating disorder.

ARFID. People with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder:

are not interested in food or avoid foods

lose weight, or don't gain expected amount of weight

are not afraid of gaining weight

don't have a poor body image

People with ARFID don't eat because they are turned off by the smell, taste, texture, or color of food. They may be afraid that they will choke or vomit. They don't have anorexia, bulimia, or another medical problem that would explain their eating behaviors.

How Do Eating Disorders Affect Health and Emotions?

Eating disorders can cause serious problems throughout the body.

Anorexia can lead to health problems caused by undernutrition and low body weight, such as:

low blood pressure

slow or irregular heartbeats

feeling tired, weak, dizzy, or faint

constipation and bloating

irregular periods

weak bones

delayed puberty and slow growth

People with anorexia may find it hard to focus and have trouble remembering things. Mood changes and emotional problems include:

feeling alone, sad, or depressed

anxiety and fears about gaining weight

thoughts of hurting themselves

Bulimia can lead to health problems caused by vomiting, laxatives, and diuretics, such as:

low blood pressure

irregular heartbeats

feeling tired, weak, dizzy, or faint

blood in vomit or stool (poop)

tooth erosion and cavities

swollen cheeks (salivary glands)

People with bulimia may have these emotional problems:

low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression

alcohol or drug problems

thoughts of hurting themselves

Binge eating can lead to weight-related health problems, such as:

diabetes

high blood pressure

high cholesterol and triglycerides

fatty liver

sleep apnea

People with binge eating disorder may:

have low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression

feel alone, out of control, angry, or helpless

have trouble coping with strong emotions or stressful events

ARFID may lead to health problems that stem from poor nutrition, similar to anorexia. People with ARFID may:

not get enough vitamins, minerals, and protein

need tube feeding and nutrition supplements

grow poorly

People with ARFID are more likely to have:

What Causes Eating Disorders?

There's no one cause for eating disorders. Genes, environment, and stressful events all play a role. Some things can increase a person's chance of having an eating disorder, such as:

poor body image

too much focus on weight or looks

dieting at a young age

playing sports that focus on weight (gymnastics, ballet, ice skating, and wrestling)

having a family member with an eating disorder

mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, or OCD

How Are Eating Disorders Diagnosed?

Health care providers and mental health professionals diagnose eating disorders based on history, symptoms, thought patterns, eating behaviors, and an exam.

The doctor will check weight and height and compare these to previous measurements on growth charts. The doctor may order tests to see if there is another reason for the eating problems and to check for problems caused by the eating disorder.

How Are Eating Disorders Treated?

Eating disorders are best treated by a team that includes a doctor, dietitian, and therapist. Treatment includes nutrition counseling, medical care, and talk therapy (individual, group, and family therapy). The doctor might prescribe medicine to treat binge eating, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.

The details of the treatment depend on the type of eating disorder and how severe it is. Some people are hospitalized because of extreme weight loss and medical complications.

What if I Have an Eating Disorder?

If you think you may have an eating disorder:

Tell someone. Tell a parent, teacher, counselor, or an adult you trust. Let them know what you're going through. Ask them to help.

Get help early. When an eating disorder is caught early, a person has a better chance of recovery. Make an appointment with your doctor or an eating disorders specialist.

Go to all appointments. Treatment takes time and effort. Work hard to learn about yourself and your emotions. Ask questions any time you have them.

Be patient with yourself. There's so much to learn, and change happens a little at a time. Take care of yourself and be with people who support you.

Where Can I Learn More About Eating Disorders?

For more information on eating disorders, visit the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA).

For more help and support, the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) offers these free resources:

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Eating disorders are problems that affect a person's eating behaviors as well as attitudes and feelings about food and their body. This article for teens describes how different eating disorders impact a person's health and emotions.

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"Do you often feel sad, anxious, worthless, or even “empty”?

Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy?

Do you get easily frustrated, irritable, or angry?

Do you find yourself withdrawing from friends and family?

Are your grades dropping?

Have your eating or sleeping habits changed?

Have you experienced any fatigue or memory loss?

Have you thought about suicide or harming yourself?"

from National Institute of Mental Health..

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

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Being a teenager can be tough, but it shouldn't feel hopeless. If you have been feeling sad most of the time for a few weeks or longer and you're not able to concentrate or do the things you used to enjoy, talk to a trusted adult about depression.

Do I have depression?

Do you often feel sad, anxious, worthless, or even "empty"?

Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy?

Do you get easily frustrated, irritable, or angry?

Do you find yourself withdrawing from friends and family?

Are your grades dropping?

Have your eating or sleeping habits changed?

Have you experienced any fatigue or memory loss?

Have you thought about suicide or harming yourself?

Depression looks different for everyone. You might have many of the symptoms listed above or just a few.
How do I get help for depression?

Talk to a trusted adult (such as your parent or guardian, teacher, or school counselor) about how you've been feeling.

Ask your doctor about options for professional help. Depression can be treated with psychotherapy (also called "talk therapy"), medication, or a combination of medication and talk therapy.

Try to spend time with friends or family, even if you don't feel like you want to.

Stay active and exercise, even if it's just going for a walk. Physical activity releases chemicals, such as endorphins, in your brain that can help you feel better.

Try to keep a regular sleep schedule.

Eat healthy foods.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
National Institutes of Health
NIMH Identification No. OM 22-4321

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The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy the images in the publication. If you do use our materials, we request that you cite the National Institute of Mental Health. To learn more about using NIMH publications, refer to NIMH's reprint guidelines.

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Teen Depression: More Than Just Moodiness

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This fact sheet is intended for teens and young adults and presents information about how to recognize the symptoms of depression and how to get help.

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Yes, based on my research a lot of teens suffer from low self-esteem and anxiety.

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https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/statistics-research-eating-disorders

5.2% of girls have anorexia.

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i think that some teens are suffering from mental heath issues and that it is more prevalent than we think sometimes. but also there are a lot of kids that are doing very well if 8% of kids are suffering from depression that means the other 92% are not.

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"The voice in your own head. The things you say to yourself play a big part in how you feel about yourself. Thinking, "I'm such a loser" or "I'll never make friends," hurts your self-esteem." from Kids Health, or Nemours Teens Health.

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How Can I Improve My Self-Esteem? (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth

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We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.

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Yes. It's very common for teens to have mental issues. If you have them you should definitely seek help.

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I think teens do suffer from mental health problems. I know this because of research and because of friends and family.

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Teenagers struggle with their mental health. Some more than others. Many teenagers can go undiagnosed until it is unbearable to handle.

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yes they struggle with mental disorders.

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I think that teens struggle with mental health. I think this b/c teens are going through many changes, and a lot of the time they don't think about their mental health

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https://www.childstats.gov/americaschildren/health4.asp#:~:text=In%202019%2C%2016%25%20of%20the,%25)%20and%202014%20(11%25).

From the population of 12-17 year olds, 16% of them have severe depression or MDE.

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Depression has a significant impact on adolescent development and well-being. Adolescent depression can adversely affect school and work performance, impair peer and family relationships, and exacerbate the severity of other health conditions such as asthma and obesity. Depressive episodes often persist, recur, or continue into adulthood. Youth who have had a major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year are at greater risk for suicide and are more likely than other youth to initiate alcohol and other drug use, experience concurrent substance use disorders, and smoke daily.

Indicator HEALTH4.A: Percentage of youth ages 12-17 who experienced a major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year by age and gender, 2004-2019

NOTE: A major depressive episode (MDE) is defined as a period of at least 2 weeks when a person experienced a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities plus at least four additional symptoms of depression (such as problems with sleep, eating, energy, concentration, and feelings of self-worth) as described in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).

SOURCE: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, National Survey on Drug Use and Health..

Indicator HEALTH4.B: Percentage of those receiving treatment for depression among youth ages 12-17 with at least one MDE in the past year by gender, 2004-2019

NOTE: Treatment is defined as seeing or talking to a medical doctor or other professional and/or using prescription medication in the past year for depression. Respondents with unknown treatment data were excluded.

SOURCE: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

In 2019, 16% of the population ages 12-17 had at least one MDE during the past year, a higher prevalence than that reported in each year between 2004 (9%) and 2014 (11%).

Among youth ages 12-17 in each year between 2004 and 2019, the prevalence of MDE was more than twice as high among females (ranging from 12% to 23%) as among males (ranging from 4% to 9%).

The prevalence of MDE in 2019 was lowest among youth ages 12-13 (11%) compared with youth ages 14-15 (16%) and ages 16-17 (20%).

Between 2004 and 2019, the prevalence of MDE increased for both genders among all three age groups (12-13, 14-15, and 16-17).

The percentage of youth with MDE in the past year receiving treatment for depression increased between 2004 (40%) and 2019 (43%), but this increase was not statistically significant. Treatment was higher among females (46%) than among males (37%) in 2019.

HEALTH4A HTML Table | HEALTH4B HTML Table | HEALTH4C HTML Table

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Depression has a significant impact on adolescent development and well-being. Adolescent depression can adversely affect school and work performance, impair peer and family relationships, and exacerbate the severity of other health conditions such as asthma and obesity. Depressive episodes often persist, recur, or continue into adulthood.

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Some teens struggle with mental health because of the people around them and things that have happened to them in the past. The studies show that the numbers of teens in the U.S with mental health issues is growing

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I think some do and some don't it kinda depends on how they are treated and who they are and what they want to be.

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Hapara Highlights Extension - Tab Closed

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53 percent of teen girls say they aren't happy with how their body looks.

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for.

First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy. Teen anorexics usually skip meals. They often eat only small portions or starve themselves. Furthermore, some compensate for starvation by taking diet pills, laxatives, or water in place of their meals. In a short time, teen anorexics suffer from malnourishment. They may have inadequate nutrients and vitamins to sustain. Hence, this condition needs to be monitored.

The Causes of Teen Anorexia

There are various causes of teen anorexia. Teen anorexics tend to get insecure and see themselves as overweight. As a result, teens who are anorexic seek out unreasonable body image goals. However, teen anorexia is not to be confused with dieting. Teens that are anorexic will go to extreme lengths to reach the body image they desire. In addition, they risk their health.

In most cases, anorexic teens believe they are benefiting themselves by eating less and getting thinner. They think they will be more appealing. Furthermore, they think they will be better people if they are just thin.

Teen Anorexia Statistics and Information

Teen anorexia statistics are scary. In the US, somewhere between 1 and 2 of every hundred teens struggle with anorexia at some time during their life. For some teens, anorexia is motivated by emotional problems. But, in others, peer pressure or social issues are to blame. In any case, too many teens suffer from anorexia and its unhealthy effects.

Teen Anorexia Statistics in the United States

85-90 percent of all Americans with an eating disorder are female. Five percent of adolescent girls suffer from anorexia

53 percent of American girls report that they are unhappy with their bodies at age thirteen. 78 percent are unhappy with their bodies at age seventeen

Many teens admit that they are influenced by popular media

Teen anorexia affects all social classes

In teens, anorexia is often triggered by a traumatic event, such as abuse or rape

Ten percent of teens with anorexia are male

Anorexia is most common during the teen years

Around 15 percent of teenage girls have some type of eating disorder or eating disorder related behavior

More than 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders each year, according to the NIH

Around a thousand women die each year from anorexia

5 to 20 percent of teens who have anorexia will die for reasons related to the disorder.

What to Do

Teen anorexia statistics prove that left untreated, it can be dangerous. It is even fatal. Consequently, if a teen you know suffers from anorexia, consider referring them to a physician or eating disorder specialist. Get help. You are not alone.

If you are not the parent, make sure that their parent or another adult is aware of their problem and of the anorexia's dangers. In conclusion, please call us today to find out more about our programs. We are here to help.

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for. First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy.

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Yes, I think that a whole bunch of kids do struggle with their mental issues of them struggling to hold on some die some have to give up on themselves because it slowing them down

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They might have it more sence their bodys are changing and they don't no what to do or ask for help and also they might fell that they have to change.

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I think that a lot of teens have mental health issues because the studies show that a lot of teens have depression or anxiety. A lot of teen girls have eating disorders.

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Teens and people go through alot and may cause depression and we need to help

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Overview

Teen depression is a serious mental health problem that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and it can cause emotional, functional and physical problems. Although depression can occur at any time in life, symptoms may be different between teens and adults.

Issues such as peer pressure, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for some teens, the lows are more than just temporary feelings - they're a symptom of depression.

Teen depression isn't a weakness or something that can be overcome with willpower - it can have serious consequences and requires long-term treatment. For most teens, depression symptoms ease with treatment such as medication and psychological counseling.

Symptoms

Teen depression signs and symptoms include a change from the teenager's previous attitude and behavior that can cause significant distress and problems at school or home, in social activities, or in other areas of life.

Depression symptoms can vary in severity, but changes in your teen's emotions and behavior may include the examples below.

Emotional changes

Be alert for emotional changes, such as:

Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason

Frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters

Feeling hopeless or empty

Irritable or annoyed mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities

Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends

Low self-esteem

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism

Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance

Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things

Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak

Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide

Behavioral changes

Watch for changes in behavior, such as:

Tiredness and loss of energy

Insomnia or sleeping too much

Changes in appetite - decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain

Use of alcohol or drugs

Agitation or restlessness - for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still

Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements

Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse

Social isolation

Poor school performance or frequent absences from school

Less attention to personal hygiene or appearance

Angry outbursts, disruptive or risky behavior, or other acting-out behaviors

Self-harm - for example, cutting or burning

Making a suicide plan or a suicide attempt

What's normal and what's not

It can be difficult to tell the difference between ups and downs that are just part of being a teenager and teen depression. Talk with your teen. Try to determine whether he or she seems capable of managing challenging feelings, or if life seems overwhelming.

When to see a doctor

If depression signs and symptoms continue, begin to interfere in your teen's life, or cause you to have concerns about suicide or your teen's safety, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Your teen's family doctor or pediatrician is a good place to start. Or your teen's school may recommend someone.

Depression symptoms likely won't get better on their own - and they may get worse or lead to other problems if untreated. Depressed teenagers may be at risk of suicide, even if signs and symptoms don't appear to be severe.

If you're a teen and you think you may be depressed - or you have a friend who may be depressed - don't wait to get help. Talk to a health care provider such as your doctor or school nurse. Share your concerns with a parent, a close friend, a spiritual leader, a teacher or someone else you trust.

Symptoms

Suicide is often associated with depression. If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Also consider these options if you're having suicidal thoughts:

Call your mental health professional.

Contact a suicide hotline.

In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. The Spanish language phone line is 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free). Services are free and confidential.

Or contact a crisis service for teenagers in the U.S. called TXT 4 HELP: Text the word "safe" and your current location to 4HELP (44357) for immediate help, with the option for interactive texting.

Seek help from your primary care doctor or other health care provider.

Reach out to a close friend or loved one.

Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.

If a loved one or friend is in danger of attempting suicide or has made an attempt:

Make sure someone stays with that person.

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Or, if you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Never ignore comments or concerns about suicide. Always take action to get help.

Causes

It's not known exactly what causes depression, but a variety of issues may be involved. These include:

Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When these chemicals are abnormal or impaired, the function of nerve receptors and nerve systems changes, leading to depression.

Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression.

Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives - such as a parent or grandparent - also have the condition.

Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events during childhood, such as physical or emotional abuse, or loss of a parent, may cause changes in the brain that increase the risk of depression.

Learned patterns of negative thinking. Teen depression may be linked to learning to feel helpless - rather than learning to feel capable of finding solutions for life's challenges.

Risk factors

Many factors increase the risk of developing or triggering teen depression, including:

Having issues that negatively impact self-esteem, such as obesity, peer problems, long-term bullying or academic problems

Having been the victim or witness of violence, such as physical or sexual abuse

Having other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, a personality disorder, anorexia or bulimia

Having a learning disability or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Having ongoing pain or a chronic physical illness such as cancer, diabetes or asthma

Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical or pessimistic

Abusing alcohol, nicotine or other drugs

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender in an unsupportive environment

Family history and issues with family or others may also increase your teenager's risk of depression, such as:

Having a parent, grandparent or other blood relative with depression, bipolar disorder or alcohol use problems

Having a family member who died by suicide

Having a family with major communication and relationship problems

Having experienced recent stressful life events, such as parental divorce, parental military service or the death of a loved one

Complications

Untreated depression can result in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your teenager's life. Complications related to teen depression may include, for example:

Alcohol and drug misuse

Academic problems

Family conflicts and relationship difficulties

Suicide attempts or suicide

Prevention

There's no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help. Encourage your teenager to:

Take steps to control stress, increase resilience and boost self-esteem to help handle issues when they arise

Practice self-care, for example by creating a healthy sleep routine and using electronics responsibly and in moderation

Reach out for friendship and social support, especially in times of crisis

Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening

Maintain ongoing treatment, if recommended, even after symptoms let up, to help prevent a relapse of depression symptoms

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This serious mental health problem affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and can cause emotional, functional and physical problems.

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I think that yes some teens struggle with mental health because of things like school or their home lives or past events.

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3.5% of girls a=have an eating disorder and 1.5% of guys have a eating disorder

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Recently, singer Taylor Swift revealed in the documentary "Miss Americana" her own struggles with an eating disorder. You may be surprised to find out just how common eating disorders are - and how they affect groups of people that you may not typically associate with eating disorders. Here are some statistics about eating disorders and insights behind the numbers.

Eating Disorders: Females Versus Males

It's estimated that 30 million Americans have struggled with an eating disorder at some point over their lifetime, says Claire Mysko, CEO of the National Eating Disorders Association. That breaks down to 20 million women and 10 million men.

Although many people associate young women with eating disorders, men can have them too. "We think the 10 million number is probably larger," Mysko says. Males often might think that eating disorders are only experienced by girls, so they don't share their struggle with others.

Additionally, eating disorder symptoms in males may go undiagnosed or unnoticed because people are not looking for them, says Stephanie M. Manasse, an assistant research professor and director of the Child and Adolescent Program at the Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Sciences at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

It could also be that eating disorder symptoms in younger males look different compared with females. For instance, there could be more of a focus on getting a muscular body versus getting thin. That can leave a disorder undetected.

There will likely be more males seeking treatment for eating disorders in the future as eating disorder awareness grows, Manasse believes.

Types of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are thought to be caused by a mix of genetic, environmental and personality factors. The most common eating disorders include:

Anorexia nervosa, which involves individuals wanting to stay obsessively thin. It's characterized by having a low body weight, although those with anorexia often think they're overweight. Over their lifetime, 0.9% of women and 0.3% of men will develop anorexia, the NEDA reports.

Bulimia nervosa, during which a person binges on a lot of food and then has behavior - such as vomiting - to help purge that food. Over their lifetime, 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men will develop bulimia, the NEDA reports.

Binge eating disorder refers to eating an excessive amount of food in a short period of time, such as over a couple of hours. There is no purging involved. This binging behavior must happen at least once a week over three months to be formally diagnosed. Binge eating disorder is more common than both anorexia and bulimia. Over their lifetime, 3.5% of women and 2% of men are slated to have binge eating disorder, according to the NEDA.

Orthorexia refers to an obsessive and extreme focus on "pure" or "clean" eating. Orthorexia is not a formal diagnosis yet, so it's difficult to get an accurate number of how many people have it. However, it's a growing trend that health professionals have observed.

Eating disorders are commonly associated with co-occurring behavioral or mood disorders or trauma:

33% to 50% of those with anorexia also have a mood disorder such as depression, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.

However, Crystal Vatza, a licensed counselor and executive director of Seeds of Hope, Mountainside, a treatment facility that specializes in eating disorders, in Moscow, Pennsylvania, believes that percentage is likely higher. Behavioral/mood disorders and trauma-related disorders that are common in those with eating disorders include:

Bipolar disorder.

Depression. Major depression was the most common co-occurring mood disorder in a study of 2,400 people hospitalized for an eating disorder, according to the NEDA.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Personality disorder.

Post-traumatic stress syndrome.

Self-injury (such as cutting).

Substance abuse.

It's not always clear which comes first - the eating disorder or the mood/trauma-related disorder - and it's likely different for each individual. "Disordered eating and eating disorders never exist in a vacuum. There's always something else going on," Mysko says.

Disordered eating is used to describe abnormal behavior related to eating, but that by itself doesn't lead to an eating order diagnosis. For instance, a person may have strict rules about when to eat and what to eat that are considered abnormal, but those eating behaviors don't occur often enough or aren't extreme enough to be formally diagnosed as an eating disorder.

Eating Disorders Among Certain Populations

Although the long-time stereotype of eating disorders has been associated with a young, thin, white and affluent female, they actually affect a wide range of the population. Here are some eating disorder statistics among specific groups:

More than one-third of Division I National Collegiate Athletic Association female athletes were found in a study to have attitudes and symptoms that place them at risk for anorexia, the NEDA reports. "This is something we hear about quite often," Mysko says. "There's a lot of pressure on athletes for performance, and there's an emphasis in sports on performance related to body size and shape."

Coaches and trainers don't always have good information on eating disorders, leading young athletes without good resources to seek help, Mysko says. Although much of the emphasis in sports is on being thin, there also are body pressures in sports like football and wrestling that can lead to problems with disordered eating.
Teens and College-Age Students
Among teens ages 13 to 18, 3.8% of females and 1.5% of males are reported to have an eating disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

A recent analysis of about 12,000 teens, ages 15 to 17, in the Journal of School Nursing, found that nearly a fourth misperceive their weight. Of those who misjudge their weight, 11.6% believe they are overweight but aren't. Adolescents who misjudge their weight are significantly more likely to engage in unhealthy dietary habits, have eating disorders and are more likely to have sedentary lifestyles, says Jagdish Khubchandani, an author of the 2020study and a health science professor at Ball State University. In contrast, he notes, teenagers who have accurate perceptions of their weight are less likely to have eating disorders.

Among college-age students, the percentage of people with an eating disorder is even higher, with a range of 8% to 17%, according to a 2011 study, which was part of the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment. Eating disorders also often emerge at the age when people attend college. College is the perfect storm of living independently, feeling pressure to get good grades and facing body image issues - making eating disorders more common.

Thirteen percent of women older than 50 engage in disordered eating behaviors, according to the ANAD. This statistic doesn't refer to having an eating disorder necessarily, but instead refers to the number of people who may do things like create certain rules about eating or obsess over being thin. The number doesn't surprise Vatza, who says both men and women age 50 and older could have a lifelong struggle with an eating disorder or behaviors that can be described as disordered eating.

"They can go years and years before it's identified or caught," she says. Those with eating disorders in this age group tend to feel more hopeless, she says. It often takes a wake-up call from a doctor who says, "You won't live to see your grandchild grow up" or a similar sentiment to get that person to seek help.

Those in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community commonly suffer from eating disorders, but resources haven't always been plentiful to help them, Vatza says. That's changing as awareness increases, she adds.

Sixteen percent of transgender college students reported having an eating disorder, according to the ANAD. Although statistics about eating disorders in this population group are not consistent, the NEDA states that gay, lesbian and bisexual teens are thought to be at a higher risk of binge eating and purging. Studies have found it can occur as early as age 12 among LGBTQ+ youth. In comparison, among the general population, binge eating disorder usually begins in one's late teens and early 20s.

Eating disorder rates are similar among all races and ethnicities, but people of color are less likely to receive help for an eating disorder. This could be because people associate eating disorders with a particular look or type of person.

"Sometimes when people have the courage to come forward with their eating disorder and talk with a loved one or friend, unfortunately, they hear people who say, 'You can't have an eating disorder,'" Mysko says. Some people react this way because the person with the eating disorder doesn't look how someone might expect to have an eating disorder. For instance, the person may have a higher body weight.

This is one reason that the NEDA's campaign for Eating Disorder Awareness Week (Feb. 24 to March 1) is called Come as You Are. "We want to bust through these myths and accept all sizes, ages and socioeconomic statuses," Mysko says.

The NEDA has a toll-free, confidential helpline, if you or someone you know needs support or wants to find local treatment options. The phone number is 800-931-2237.

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Recently, singer Taylor Swift revealed in the documentary "Miss Americana" her own struggles with an eating disorder. You may be surprised to find out just how common eating disorders are - and how they affect groups of people that you may not typically associate with eating disorders.

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85-90% of teens who have eating disorders are female

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for.

First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy. Teen anorexics usually skip meals. They often eat only small portions or starve themselves. Furthermore, some compensate for starvation by taking diet pills, laxatives, or water in place of their meals. In a short time, teen anorexics suffer from malnourishment. They may have inadequate nutrients and vitamins to sustain. Hence, this condition needs to be monitored.

The Causes of Teen Anorexia

There are various causes of teen anorexia. Teen anorexics tend to get insecure and see themselves as overweight. As a result, teens who are anorexic seek out unreasonable body image goals. However, teen anorexia is not to be confused with dieting. Teens that are anorexic will go to extreme lengths to reach the body image they desire. In addition, they risk their health.

In most cases, anorexic teens believe they are benefiting themselves by eating less and getting thinner. They think they will be more appealing. Furthermore, they think they will be better people if they are just thin.

Teen Anorexia Statistics and Information

Teen anorexia statistics are scary. In the US, somewhere between 1 and 2 of every hundred teens struggle with anorexia at some time during their life. For some teens, anorexia is motivated by emotional problems. But, in others, peer pressure or social issues are to blame. In any case, too many teens suffer from anorexia and its unhealthy effects.

Teen Anorexia Statistics in the United States

85-90 percent of all Americans with an eating disorder are female. Five percent of adolescent girls suffer from anorexia

53 percent of American girls report that they are unhappy with their bodies at age thirteen. 78 percent are unhappy with their bodies at age seventeen

Many teens admit that they are influenced by popular media

Teen anorexia affects all social classes

In teens, anorexia is often triggered by a traumatic event, such as abuse or rape

Ten percent of teens with anorexia are male

Anorexia is most common during the teen years

Around 15 percent of teenage girls have some type of eating disorder or eating disorder related behavior

More than 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders each year, according to the NIH

Around a thousand women die each year from anorexia

5 to 20 percent of teens who have anorexia will die for reasons related to the disorder.

What to Do

Teen anorexia statistics prove that left untreated, it can be dangerous. It is even fatal. Consequently, if a teen you know suffers from anorexia, consider referring them to a physician or eating disorder specialist. Get help. You are not alone.

If you are not the parent, make sure that their parent or another adult is aware of their problem and of the anorexia's dangers. In conclusion, please call us today to find out more about our programs. We are here to help.

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for. First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy.

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4% of teens have an eating dsorder

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Polaris Teen Center: Premier Adolescent Treatment Center in Los Angeles

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The adolescent and teenage years are a time of growth and transformation, physically, mentally and biologically. In moving towards adulthood, young people begin to discover who they are. Independent of parents, they begin to establish friendships and go through puberty. There are obvious physical changes associated with adolescence and puberty. But a large amount of internal change also occurs. Adolescent eating disorder statistics show 2.7% of teens in the U.S. between 13 and 18 years old have an eating disorder. For many teenagers, entering into puberty can be a time wrought with intense emotions, confusion, and stress. This period of change is what makes teens susceptible to developing eating disorders.

Adolescent eating disorders (such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive overeating) are concerns every parent hopes to avoid. Yet, because so many young people struggle with eating disorders, it is important to know the facts.

4% of adolescents and teens, ages 13 to 18, suffer from an anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.

Anorexia is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder affecting many teenagers. Those who suffer from anorexia go to extreme lengths to control their food intake. Or, worse, they avoid eating altogether. Additionally, those with anorexia also have a distorted body image. They still feel "fat," regardless of how thin they become.

Teenagers with bulimia typically binge (periods of uncontrollable overeating) and purge (self-induce vomiting). Inducing vomiting is the most common compensatory behavior. But there are others, such as laxatives or excessive exercise.

Binge-eating disorder is characterized by excessive eating. Many teens who suffer from binge-eating disorder describe feeling like they have no control over their behavior. They also experience intense guilt and shame following a binge.

50% of teens with anorexia will develop bulimia or binge-eating disorder

Anorexia is an eating disorder marked by significantly restricting caloric intake due to intense fear of weight gain. Teens with anorexia engage in some level of self-starvation. This extreme dietary restriction often leads to another eating disorder, such as bulimia or binge-eating disorder. Long periods of malnutrition take a toll on the body's systems and organs. This, along with experiencing hunger cues and pains, can eventually lead a teen to "giving in" to the desire for food. And like the extreme nature of the restricting, once a teenager begins to eat again, it can be extreme as well (such as binging).

90% of teens with anorexia are female

Anorexia most commonly emerges in the adolescent and teenage years. This eating disorder develops from a number of factors including, for some, the onset of dieting, converge. While dieting does not cause anorexia, the reduction in calories dieting entails often triggers the disorder. Especially in those who are genetically predisposed to it.

The average amount spent on eating disorder research per affected individual is .93¢

In comparison, $44 per affected individual is spent on autism research. Schizophrenia research spends $81 per affected individual. Lastly, $88 is spent on Alzheimer's disease research per affected individual.

Young women with anorexia are 12 times more likely to die than women the same age who do not have anorexia.

Anorexia nervosa is the third most common chronic illness among adolescent and teenage girls. Anorexia also has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder.

50% of teenage girls and 30% of teenage boys use unhealthy weight control behaviors.

Some of these behaviors include skipping meals, fasting, smoking cigarettes, purging (throwing up), taking laxatives, over-exercising, taking diet pills, hiding food, and drinking highly caffeinated energy drinks.

50% of teens with an eating disorder also suffer from depression

Depression may lead to eating disorders in teenagers, but in many cases, the eating disorder itself is what triggers depression. Malnourishment causes physiological changes in the brain that can affect emotion regulation and mood.

69% of females (ages 10 to 18) state that photographs of models and celebrities in the media motivated their "ideal" body shape.

The rate at which teens are becoming aware of their body shape and size is getting younger and younger, and media plays a big part in this. Many teenagers site media as being on of the biggest influencers when it comes to body image (how one perceives his or her body when looking in the mirror). In the United States, media and overall popular culture strongly idealize thinness, and adolescents and teens are amongst the population most strongly influenced, especially with the popularity of social media. Unfortunately, the substantial influence the media plays in teenagers lives leads many (even teens with a normal body weight), are still susceptible to viewing themselves as "overweight" or "fat". The importance placed on thinness in the media can create a desire to achieve the impossible in terms of body shape and size, and can obviously become a trigger to dieting and weight loss.

In this day and age, being concerned with weight and body size is incredibly common, especially amongst adolescent and teenaged girls. Adolescence is when bodies begin to change, and there is an increased awareness of media and peer pressures. Couple this with a lack of knowledge around nutrition, and many teenage girls are engaging in some very risky dietary behaviors as a way to cope with body dissatisfaction. Although all teenage girls are susceptible, there are certain risk factors that make some more likely to use dangerous diets including:

Family factors - low family connectedness, absent or neglectful parents, or dieting amongst parents can all contribute to increasing a teenage girl's risk of engaging in dieting behavior.

Environmental factors - poor school involvement, bullying/teasing by peers (especially around weight-related issues), or participation in a sport that is weight-focused will likely make a teen more prone to using diets.

Individual factors - being female alone increasing one's inclination towards dieting. Other individual factors include low self-esteem, early puberty, being overweight or obese, or practicing vegetarianism.

How many teen boys actually have eating disorders? Boys make up approximately 10 to 15% of the adolescent and teenage population with eating disorders, but are much less likely to seek treatment due to the gender stereotypes surrounding the disorders.

Many people believe that an eating disorder is a "female" problem. And while more common in girls and women, eating disorders do affect males as well. Because there is far more discussion about teenage girls and eating disorders, many teen boys are reluctant to discuss their symptoms or admit they have a problem. For some, there may be fear of appearing less masculine, or being judged by friends and peers. This unfortunately prevents many male teenagers from getting the help they need.

Involvement in certain athletic activities - such as bodybuilding, wrestling, swimming, and gymnastics all increase a teenage boy's chances of developing an eating disorder. This is because these are sports where weight control can influence performance, and coaches often encourage maintaining a certain weight range.

Sexual orientation - homosexual males or males questioning their sexual identity are at an increased risk of struggling with an eating disorder.

Being overweight - teenage boys who are currently overweight, or were overweight as children are more prone to eating disorders. This is especially true if a bullying and/or teasing is involved.

Parental dieting - parents model behaviors to their children, whether they intend to or not. Thus, teenage boys who see one or both parents using restrictive diets to lose weight may begin to practice similar behavior.

While it is possible for any boy to develop an eating disorder throughout his adolescent and teenage years, there are certain factors that increase one's likelihood including:

If you think your teen may be struggling with an eating disorder, contact Polaris Teen at (844) 836-0222 to find out more about residential treatment options for your son or daughter.

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10 Statistics of Teenage Eating Disorders

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Many young people struggle with eating disorders. If you think your teen falls into this category, discover how you can help support them. Read here

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teens suffer from mental health, i know this because 8.3% of teens can have depression for years at a time

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3.2 million teens have had a major episode in a year.

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Your teen years are full of significant changes. Physically, mentally, and socially - your brain, body, and environment are going through a major evolution.

You might feel bogged down from the demands of high school and college assignments piling up. Or you may feel sadness about transitioning to a more independent and unfamiliar life. Throw in a worldwide pandemic, and it's no surprise that uneasy feelings are on the rise, as shown by recent teen depression statistics and research.

These changes can easily become overwhelming. Understandably, you might shut down, become irritable, or lose interest in the activities that previously made you light up.

While these responses are valid and usual, depression is a condition that's much more serious than fleeting teen moodiness.

If negative emotions are keeping keep you from functioning like you usually do, or you've experienced a sense of hopelessness for more than 2 weeks, you might want to consider treatment for depression.

1. It's more common than you might think

Everyone goes through a rough patch or feels listless on occasion. But major depression is a leading cause of disability in the United States, and teens are becoming the most likely group to screen for symptoms of this mental health condition.

Data shows that depression affects high numbers of young people:

Data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health showed that 3.2% of children ages 3 to 17 had a depression diagnosis. The frequency of depression diagnosis tends to increase as children enter their teen years.

Around teens ages 12 to 17 had one major depressive episode in 2017.

According to a 2021 Mental Health America (MHA) report, severe major depression has increased in youth to 9.7%. This is an increase from 9.2% in 2020.

The 2021 MHA report also states that youth ages 11 to 17 were the most likely age group to score in the moderate-to-severe depression categories when screened for mental health conditions.

The symptoms of depression might be a bit different in teens and adults. You can read about the symptoms of depression in teens here.

2. Depression rates are higher in females and gender minority teens

While depression can affect teens of any sex and gender identity, a study published by the JAMA Network found that by 15 years old, females were twice as likely to have experienced episodic depression than males.

When comparing male and female depression rates, depression continues to present at a higher rate in females than males from the teen years into adulthood.

Also, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors leading to depression are highest among adolescents and young adults who identify with a gender minority, such as transgender, genderqueer, and nonbinary.

3. Teens with two or more racial or ethnic identities report the highest rates of depression

Your teen years are often called the "coming-of-age" era for a reason. You're discovering, questioning, and deciding many aspects of your identity, including what your cultural, racial, and ethnic identity means in your life.

This, coupled with societal pressures and prejudices, can reasonably leave you feeling stressed and emotionally shaken up.

Teens ages 12 to 17 years old with more than one racial identity are the most at-risk racial or ethnic group to report a major depressive episode, according to data published by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services in 2017.

American Indian/Alaskan Native teenagers reported the second highest rates of depression at .

4. LGBTQ+ teens are at greater risk for depression

Recent research shows that sexual identity can impact rates of depression among teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are at a higher risk for depression, suicide, and substance use.

But factors like supportive parents and an accepting atmosphere at school can also decrease the risk of depression in LGBTQ+ adolescents.

5. Most teens with depression are not receiving treatment

Depression is not a weakness, and you should never feel ashamed of a depression diagnosis. While major depression is a widespread mental health condition, it still requires attention and professional treatment.

You may be tempted to ignore your negative feelings and symptoms associated with depression, but a consistent treatment plan is vital for depression management.

Left untreated, depression has a higher chance of recurring throughout your lifetime.

According to the MHA, the majority of adolescents with depression - 60% - did not receive treatment for their major depression from 2017 to 2018. Further, more than two-thirds of adolescents diagnosed with depression did not continue with consistent treatment.

6. COVID has increased depression and uncertainty in teens

As if the normal stressors and changes happening during your teen years weren't enough, for many, the pandemic has upended any remaining sense of normalcy and routine as well.

Quarantine, loss of social interactions, illness, fear of illness, the loss of loved ones, and financial distress are only some of the compounding and life-altering stressors that teens have faced since March 2020.

These changes have had a lasting physical and psychological impact on U.S. society. According to teen depression statistics in the Stress in America 2020 survey, Generation Z teens and young adults ages 13 to 23 years old have reported increased uncertainty and depression symptoms.

For all ages, loneliness and isolation trended as the top reason for uncertainty and mental health conditions during the pandemic.

7. There's no single cause of depression

Depression often brings deeply negative or apathetic feelings, but it's important to remember that these emotions do not reflect any character flaws.

In fact, depression often stems from events outside of your control, such as:

Depression can also accompany or become exacerbated by existing medical conditions. These include:

Of course, depression can also develop without a specific triggering event or preexisting condition, just as it can result from numerous sources. Exploring the causes of your depression with a professional can help you determine the most effective treatment plan.

8. There are many types of depression

If you feel depressed, it does not automatically mean you have a depressive disorder. Depression may be a symptom of another physical or psychological medical condition.

Depression could also be a natural response to a major stressor and does not indicate that you'll need to prepare to live with recurring depression.

Some types of depression include:

No matter what form your depression takes, it's important to work with a medical professional to identify the type of depression you are experiencing and, ultimately, develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Teenage Depression: Facts and Statistics

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Depression is more common in teens than you might think. We look at the facts and statistics.

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10 out of 100 young women suffer from eating disorders

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Eating Disorders in Teens

In the United States, as many as 10 in 100 young women suffer from an eating disorder. Disordered eating related to stress, poor nutritional habits, and food fads are relatively common problems for youth. In addition, two psychiatric eating disorders, anorexia nervosa and bulimia, are on the increase among teenage girls and young women and often run in families. These two eating disorders also occur in boys, but less often.

Parents frequently wonder how to identify symptoms of anorexia nervosa and bulimia. These disorders are characterized by a preoccupation with food and a distortion of body image. Unfortunately, many teenagers hide these serious and sometimes fatal disorders from their families and friends.

Symptoms and warning signs of anorexia nervosa and bulimia include the following:

A teenager with anorexia nervosa is typically female, and a perfectionist and a high achiever in school. At the same time, she suffers from low self-esteem, irrationally believing she is fat regardless of how thin she becomes. Desperately needing a feeling of mastery over her life, the teenager with anorexia nervosa experiences a sense of control only when she says "no" to the normal food demands of her body. In a relentless pursuit to be thin, the girl starves herself. This often reaches the point of serious damage to the body, and in a small number of cases may lead to death.

The symptoms of bulimia are usually different from those of anorexia nervosa. The patient binges on large quantities of high-caloric food and/or purges her body of dreaded calories by self-induced vomiting, extreme exercise, or laxatives. The binges may alternate with severe diets, resulting in dramatic weight fluctuations. Teenagers may try to hide the signs of throwing up by runing water while spending long periods of time in the bathroom. Frequent vomiting can cause a serious threat to the patient's physical health, including dehydration, hormonal imbalance, the depletion of important minerals, and damage to vital organs.

Binge eating can also occur on its own without the purging of bulimia and can lead to eventual purging. Children with binge eating disorder also require treatment from a mental health professional.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (or ARFID) is another eating disorder which can occur in younger children or adolescents. It involves a disturbance in eating or feeding which includes substantial weight loss or a lack of expected weight gain, and nutritional deficiencies. ARFID can lead to dependence on a feeding tube or dietary supplements.

With comprehensive treatment, most children and teenagers can recover from disordered eating. The child and adolescent psychiatrist is trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat these psychiatric disorders. Treatment for eating disorders usually requires a team approach, including individual therapy, family therapy, working with a primary care physician, working with a nutritionist, and medication. Many children and adolescents also suffer from other problems including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It is important to recognize and get appropriate treatment for these problems as well.

Research shows that early identification and treatment leads to more favorable outcomes. Parents who notice symptoms of anorexia or bulimia in their teenagers should ask their family physician or pediatrician for a referral to a child and adolescent psychiatrist.

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medical issues affecting youth mental health

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Eating Disorders in Teens In the United States, as many as 10 in 100 young women suffer from an eating disorder. Disordered eating related to stress, poor nutritional habits, and food fads are relatively common problems for youth.

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85 percent of teens have sometype of eating disoerder

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for.

First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy. Teen anorexics usually skip meals. They often eat only small portions or starve themselves. Furthermore, some compensate for starvation by taking diet pills, laxatives, or water in place of their meals. In a short time, teen anorexics suffer from malnourishment. They may have inadequate nutrients and vitamins to sustain. Hence, this condition needs to be monitored.

The Causes of Teen Anorexia

There are various causes of teen anorexia. Teen anorexics tend to get insecure and see themselves as overweight. As a result, teens who are anorexic seek out unreasonable body image goals. However, teen anorexia is not to be confused with dieting. Teens that are anorexic will go to extreme lengths to reach the body image they desire. In addition, they risk their health.

In most cases, anorexic teens believe they are benefiting themselves by eating less and getting thinner. They think they will be more appealing. Furthermore, they think they will be better people if they are just thin.

Teen Anorexia Statistics and Information

Teen anorexia statistics are scary. In the US, somewhere between 1 and 2 of every hundred teens struggle with anorexia at some time during their life. For some teens, anorexia is motivated by emotional problems. But, in others, peer pressure or social issues are to blame. In any case, too many teens suffer from anorexia and its unhealthy effects.

Teen Anorexia Statistics in the United States

85-90 percent of all Americans with an eating disorder are female. Five percent of adolescent girls suffer from anorexia

53 percent of American girls report that they are unhappy with their bodies at age thirteen. 78 percent are unhappy with their bodies at age seventeen

Many teens admit that they are influenced by popular media

Teen anorexia affects all social classes

In teens, anorexia is often triggered by a traumatic event, such as abuse or rape

Ten percent of teens with anorexia are male

Anorexia is most common during the teen years

Around 15 percent of teenage girls have some type of eating disorder or eating disorder related behavior

More than 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders each year, according to the NIH

Around a thousand women die each year from anorexia

5 to 20 percent of teens who have anorexia will die for reasons related to the disorder.

What to Do

Teen anorexia statistics prove that left untreated, it can be dangerous. It is even fatal. Consequently, if a teen you know suffers from anorexia, consider referring them to a physician or eating disorder specialist. Get help. You are not alone.

If you are not the parent, make sure that their parent or another adult is aware of their problem and of the anorexia's dangers. In conclusion, please call us today to find out more about our programs. We are here to help.

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for. First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy.

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A Lot of teens don't eat because they get bullied about their weight.

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Prevention tips for teen eating disorders

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How to talk to your teen about eating disorders and promote a healthy lifestyle for the entire family.

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3.8% of teen girls have a ed and 1.5% of teen boys have a ed

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Recently, singer Taylor Swift revealed in the documentary "Miss Americana" her own struggles with an eating disorder. You may be surprised to find out just how common eating disorders are - and how they affect groups of people that you may not typically associate with eating disorders. Here are some statistics about eating disorders and insights behind the numbers.

Eating Disorders: Females Versus Males

It's estimated that 30 million Americans have struggled with an eating disorder at some point over their lifetime, says Claire Mysko, CEO of the National Eating Disorders Association. That breaks down to 20 million women and 10 million men.

Although many people associate young women with eating disorders, men can have them too. "We think the 10 million number is probably larger," Mysko says. Males often might think that eating disorders are only experienced by girls, so they don't share their struggle with others.

Additionally, eating disorder symptoms in males may go undiagnosed or unnoticed because people are not looking for them, says Stephanie M. Manasse, an assistant research professor and director of the Child and Adolescent Program at the Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Sciences at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

It could also be that eating disorder symptoms in younger males look different compared with females. For instance, there could be more of a focus on getting a muscular body versus getting thin. That can leave a disorder undetected.

There will likely be more males seeking treatment for eating disorders in the future as eating disorder awareness grows, Manasse believes.

Types of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are thought to be caused by a mix of genetic, environmental and personality factors. The most common eating disorders include:

Anorexia nervosa, which involves individuals wanting to stay obsessively thin. It's characterized by having a low body weight, although those with anorexia often think they're overweight. Over their lifetime, 0.9% of women and 0.3% of men will develop anorexia, the NEDA reports.

Bulimia nervosa, during which a person binges on a lot of food and then has behavior - such as vomiting - to help purge that food. Over their lifetime, 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men will develop bulimia, the NEDA reports.

Binge eating disorder refers to eating an excessive amount of food in a short period of time, such as over a couple of hours. There is no purging involved. This binging behavior must happen at least once a week over three months to be formally diagnosed. Binge eating disorder is more common than both anorexia and bulimia. Over their lifetime, 3.5% of women and 2% of men are slated to have binge eating disorder, according to the NEDA.

Orthorexia refers to an obsessive and extreme focus on "pure" or "clean" eating. Orthorexia is not a formal diagnosis yet, so it's difficult to get an accurate number of how many people have it. However, it's a growing trend that health professionals have observed.

Eating disorders are commonly associated with co-occurring behavioral or mood disorders or trauma:

33% to 50% of those with anorexia also have a mood disorder such as depression, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.

However, Crystal Vatza, a licensed counselor and executive director of Seeds of Hope, Mountainside, a treatment facility that specializes in eating disorders, in Moscow, Pennsylvania, believes that percentage is likely higher. Behavioral/mood disorders and trauma-related disorders that are common in those with eating disorders include:

Bipolar disorder.

Depression. Major depression was the most common co-occurring mood disorder in a study of 2,400 people hospitalized for an eating disorder, according to the NEDA.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Personality disorder.

Post-traumatic stress syndrome.

Self-injury (such as cutting).

Substance abuse.

It's not always clear which comes first - the eating disorder or the mood/trauma-related disorder - and it's likely different for each individual. "Disordered eating and eating disorders never exist in a vacuum. There's always something else going on," Mysko says.

Disordered eating is used to describe abnormal behavior related to eating, but that by itself doesn't lead to an eating order diagnosis. For instance, a person may have strict rules about when to eat and what to eat that are considered abnormal, but those eating behaviors don't occur often enough or aren't extreme enough to be formally diagnosed as an eating disorder.

Eating Disorders Among Certain Populations

Although the long-time stereotype of eating disorders has been associated with a young, thin, white and affluent female, they actually affect a wide range of the population. Here are some eating disorder statistics among specific groups:

More than one-third of Division I National Collegiate Athletic Association female athletes were found in a study to have attitudes and symptoms that place them at risk for anorexia, the NEDA reports. "This is something we hear about quite often," Mysko says. "There's a lot of pressure on athletes for performance, and there's an emphasis in sports on performance related to body size and shape."

Coaches and trainers don't always have good information on eating disorders, leading young athletes without good resources to seek help, Mysko says. Although much of the emphasis in sports is on being thin, there also are body pressures in sports like football and wrestling that can lead to problems with disordered eating.
Teens and College-Age Students
Among teens ages 13 to 18, 3.8% of females and 1.5% of males are reported to have an eating disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

A recent analysis of about 12,000 teens, ages 15 to 17, in the Journal of School Nursing, found that nearly a fourth misperceive their weight. Of those who misjudge their weight, 11.6% believe they are overweight but aren't. Adolescents who misjudge their weight are significantly more likely to engage in unhealthy dietary habits, have eating disorders and are more likely to have sedentary lifestyles, says Jagdish Khubchandani, an author of the 2020study and a health science professor at Ball State University. In contrast, he notes, teenagers who have accurate perceptions of their weight are less likely to have eating disorders.

Among college-age students, the percentage of people with an eating disorder is even higher, with a range of 8% to 17%, according to a 2011 study, which was part of the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment. Eating disorders also often emerge at the age when people attend college. College is the perfect storm of living independently, feeling pressure to get good grades and facing body image issues - making eating disorders more common.

Thirteen percent of women older than 50 engage in disordered eating behaviors, according to the ANAD. This statistic doesn't refer to having an eating disorder necessarily, but instead refers to the number of people who may do things like create certain rules about eating or obsess over being thin. The number doesn't surprise Vatza, who says both men and women age 50 and older could have a lifelong struggle with an eating disorder or behaviors that can be described as disordered eating.

"They can go years and years before it's identified or caught," she says. Those with eating disorders in this age group tend to feel more hopeless, she says. It often takes a wake-up call from a doctor who says, "You won't live to see your grandchild grow up" or a similar sentiment to get that person to seek help.

Those in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community commonly suffer from eating disorders, but resources haven't always been plentiful to help them, Vatza says. That's changing as awareness increases, she adds.

Sixteen percent of transgender college students reported having an eating disorder, according to the ANAD. Although statistics about eating disorders in this population group are not consistent, the NEDA states that gay, lesbian and bisexual teens are thought to be at a higher risk of binge eating and purging. Studies have found it can occur as early as age 12 among LGBTQ+ youth. In comparison, among the general population, binge eating disorder usually begins in one's late teens and early 20s.

Eating disorder rates are similar among all races and ethnicities, but people of color are less likely to receive help for an eating disorder. This could be because people associate eating disorders with a particular look or type of person.

"Sometimes when people have the courage to come forward with their eating disorder and talk with a loved one or friend, unfortunately, they hear people who say, 'You can't have an eating disorder,'" Mysko says. Some people react this way because the person with the eating disorder doesn't look how someone might expect to have an eating disorder. For instance, the person may have a higher body weight.

This is one reason that the NEDA's campaign for Eating Disorder Awareness Week (Feb. 24 to March 1) is called Come as You Are. "We want to bust through these myths and accept all sizes, ages and socioeconomic statuses," Mysko says.

The NEDA has a toll-free, confidential helpline, if you or someone you know needs support or wants to find local treatment options. The phone number is 800-931-2237.

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Recently, singer Taylor Swift revealed in the documentary "Miss Americana" her own struggles with an eating disorder. You may be surprised to find out just how common eating disorders are - and how they affect groups of people that you may not typically associate with eating disorders.

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2.5% to 4% of teens have some sort of eating disorder

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Getting an accurate idea of the prevalence and other facts about eating disorders is difficult. Physicians, reports Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders, Inc. (ANRED), aren't obligated to report eating disorders. This fact, coupled with the secretiveness of people with eating disorders and their lack of recognition that they have a problem, makes it difficult to gain an accurate idea of the prevalence of eating disorders in the U.S.

The following statistics come from the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), in 2005.

EDC reports from the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry show:

The New York University Wellness Exchange pinpoints college as a time of challenge. The report that about 20% of college-aged women feel stressed in a way that brings up issues of control and feelings of being out of control. This can develop farther into an eating disorder.

ANAD reports the following eating disorder mortality rates:

ANRED also reports that close to 60% of people with any sort of eating disorders recover. At the same time, ANRED points out clearly that reliable long-term data on lengthy recoveries is not available, so these figures should be considered speculative.

According to statistics reported by NationalEatingDisorders.org

That is just $0.93 of funding per individual with an eating disorder compared to $88 per person with Alzheimer's disease.

Teen Eating Disorder Statistics Sources:

1. nationaleatingdisorders.org/p.asp?WebPage_ID=320&Profile_ID=95634

2. eatingdisorderscoalition.org/reports/statistics.html

3. anred.com/stats.html

4. anad.org/site/anadweb/content.php?type=1&id=6982

5. nyu.edu/999/faqs/bodyimage.html

6. nimh.nih.gov/publicat/eatingdisorders.cfm#ed4

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Teen Eating Disorder Statistics - Teen Help

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Statistics and facts from various studies on eating disorders: anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating. See how many teens are affected by eating disorders. Get stats on recovery and mortality rates associated with teenage eating disorders. Also an average of how long teen eating disorders generally last.

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https://www.reference.com/world-view/statistics-regarding-low-self-esteem-teenagers-ff6eeec305c3e21b

75% of girls feel bad about their body and resort to cutting, bullying, smoking, etc. Same happens to boys of ages 14-17.

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Some statistics regarding low self-esteem in teenagers include that over 70 percent of girls age 15 to 17 avoid normal daily activities when they feel bad about their looks. Additionally, 75 percent of girls with low self-esteem report engaging in activities such as cutting, bullying, smoking, drinking or improper eating. This is much higher than the reported 25 percent of girls with high self-esteem who report similar activities.

Additionally, teenage girls with negative views of themselves are four times more likely to engage in activities with boys that they later regret.

Ninety-five percent of teenagers have at some point in their lives felt inferior. The reasons for these feelings were most commonly connected to appearance, ability in a certain area, intelligence and size.

A study conducted in 2013 found that 47 percent of girls age 11 to 14 refuse to take part in activities, such as swimming or performing in a play, that show their bodies to others. The study also showed that 23 percent of these girls are afraid to put their hands up in class.

Studies have also shown a connection between teenage boys with low self-esteem and drug usage. Boys with low self-esteem in the sixth or seventh grade were found to be 1.6 times more likely than other children to meet the criteria for drug dependence when looked at nine years later.

MORE FROM REFERENCE.COM

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What Are the Statistics Regarding Low Self-Esteem in Teenagers?

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Some statistics regarding low self-esteem in teenagers include that over 70 percent of girls age 15 to 17 avoid normal daily activities when they feel bad about their looks. Additionally, 75 percent of girls with low self-esteem report engaging in activities such as cutting, bullying, smoking, drinking or improper eating.

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A whole lot of kids are having to eat less because of their body fat that can cause things

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Prevention tips for teen eating disorders

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How to talk to your teen about eating disorders and promote a healthy lifestyle for the entire family.

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40-60% of girls 6-12 are worried about their weight.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Getting an accurate idea of the prevalence and other facts about eating disorders is difficult. Physicians, reports Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders, Inc. (ANRED), aren't obligated to report eating disorders. This fact, coupled with the secretiveness of people with eating disorders and their lack of recognition that they have a problem, makes it difficult to gain an accurate idea of the prevalence of eating disorders in the U.S.

The following statistics come from the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), in 2005.

EDC reports from the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry show:

The New York University Wellness Exchange pinpoints college as a time of challenge. The report that about 20% of college-aged women feel stressed in a way that brings up issues of control and feelings of being out of control. This can develop farther into an eating disorder.

ANAD reports the following eating disorder mortality rates:

ANRED also reports that close to 60% of people with any sort of eating disorders recover. At the same time, ANRED points out clearly that reliable long-term data on lengthy recoveries is not available, so these figures should be considered speculative.

According to statistics reported by NationalEatingDisorders.org

That is just $0.93 of funding per individual with an eating disorder compared to $88 per person with Alzheimer's disease.

Teen Eating Disorder Statistics Sources:

1. nationaleatingdisorders.org/p.asp?WebPage_ID=320&Profile_ID=95634

2. eatingdisorderscoalition.org/reports/statistics.html

3. anred.com/stats.html

4. anad.org/site/anadweb/content.php?type=1&id=6982

5. nyu.edu/999/faqs/bodyimage.html

6. nimh.nih.gov/publicat/eatingdisorders.cfm#ed4

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Teen Eating Disorder Statistics - Teen Help

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Statistics and facts from various studies on eating disorders: anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating. See how many teens are affected by eating disorders. Get stats on recovery and mortality rates associated with teenage eating disorders. Also an average of how long teen eating disorders generally last.

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" At each stage of development, kids have different worries and vulnerabilities.", and "“We see a lot of fear of not doing well,” explains Jerry Bubrick, PhD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute who specializes in anxiety and OCD." from Child Mind Institute.

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3.2 million teens had a depresion episode in 2017.

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Your teen years are full of significant changes. Physically, mentally, and socially - your brain, body, and environment are going through a major evolution.

You might feel bogged down from the demands of high school and college assignments piling up. Or you may feel sadness about transitioning to a more independent and unfamiliar life. Throw in a worldwide pandemic, and it's no surprise that uneasy feelings are on the rise, as shown by recent teen depression statistics and research.

These changes can easily become overwhelming. Understandably, you might shut down, become irritable, or lose interest in the activities that previously made you light up.

While these responses are valid and usual, depression is a condition that's much more serious than fleeting teen moodiness.

If negative emotions are keeping keep you from functioning like you usually do, or you've experienced a sense of hopelessness for more than 2 weeks, you might want to consider treatment for depression.

1. It's more common than you might think

Everyone goes through a rough patch or feels listless on occasion. But major depression is a leading cause of disability in the United States, and teens are becoming the most likely group to screen for symptoms of this mental health condition.

Data shows that depression affects high numbers of young people:

Data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health showed that 3.2% of children ages 3 to 17 had a depression diagnosis. The frequency of depression diagnosis tends to increase as children enter their teen years.

Around teens ages 12 to 17 had one major depressive episode in 2017.

According to a 2021 Mental Health America (MHA) report, severe major depression has increased in youth to 9.7%. This is an increase from 9.2% in 2020.

The 2021 MHA report also states that youth ages 11 to 17 were the most likely age group to score in the moderate-to-severe depression categories when screened for mental health conditions.

The symptoms of depression might be a bit different in teens and adults. You can read about the symptoms of depression in teens here.

2. Depression rates are higher in females and gender minority teens

While depression can affect teens of any sex and gender identity, a study published by the JAMA Network found that by 15 years old, females were twice as likely to have experienced episodic depression than males.

When comparing male and female depression rates, depression continues to present at a higher rate in females than males from the teen years into adulthood.

Also, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors leading to depression are highest among adolescents and young adults who identify with a gender minority, such as transgender, genderqueer, and nonbinary.

3. Teens with two or more racial or ethnic identities report the highest rates of depression

Your teen years are often called the "coming-of-age" era for a reason. You're discovering, questioning, and deciding many aspects of your identity, including what your cultural, racial, and ethnic identity means in your life.

This, coupled with societal pressures and prejudices, can reasonably leave you feeling stressed and emotionally shaken up.

Teens ages 12 to 17 years old with more than one racial identity are the most at-risk racial or ethnic group to report a major depressive episode, according to data published by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services in 2017.

American Indian/Alaskan Native teenagers reported the second highest rates of depression at .

4. LGBTQ+ teens are at greater risk for depression

Recent research shows that sexual identity can impact rates of depression among teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are at a higher risk for depression, suicide, and substance use.

But factors like supportive parents and an accepting atmosphere at school can also decrease the risk of depression in LGBTQ+ adolescents.

5. Most teens with depression are not receiving treatment

Depression is not a weakness, and you should never feel ashamed of a depression diagnosis. While major depression is a widespread mental health condition, it still requires attention and professional treatment.

You may be tempted to ignore your negative feelings and symptoms associated with depression, but a consistent treatment plan is vital for depression management.

Left untreated, depression has a higher chance of recurring throughout your lifetime.

According to the MHA, the majority of adolescents with depression - 60% - did not receive treatment for their major depression from 2017 to 2018. Further, more than two-thirds of adolescents diagnosed with depression did not continue with consistent treatment.

6. COVID has increased depression and uncertainty in teens

As if the normal stressors and changes happening during your teen years weren't enough, for many, the pandemic has upended any remaining sense of normalcy and routine as well.

Quarantine, loss of social interactions, illness, fear of illness, the loss of loved ones, and financial distress are only some of the compounding and life-altering stressors that teens have faced since March 2020.

These changes have had a lasting physical and psychological impact on U.S. society. According to teen depression statistics in the Stress in America 2020 survey, Generation Z teens and young adults ages 13 to 23 years old have reported increased uncertainty and depression symptoms.

For all ages, loneliness and isolation trended as the top reason for uncertainty and mental health conditions during the pandemic.

7. There's no single cause of depression

Depression often brings deeply negative or apathetic feelings, but it's important to remember that these emotions do not reflect any character flaws.

In fact, depression often stems from events outside of your control, such as:

Depression can also accompany or become exacerbated by existing medical conditions. These include:

Of course, depression can also develop without a specific triggering event or preexisting condition, just as it can result from numerous sources. Exploring the causes of your depression with a professional can help you determine the most effective treatment plan.

8. There are many types of depression

If you feel depressed, it does not automatically mean you have a depressive disorder. Depression may be a symptom of another physical or psychological medical condition.

Depression could also be a natural response to a major stressor and does not indicate that you'll need to prepare to live with recurring depression.

Some types of depression include:

No matter what form your depression takes, it's important to work with a medical professional to identify the type of depression you are experiencing and, ultimately, develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Teenage Depression: Facts and Statistics

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Depression is more common in teens than you might think. We look at the facts and statistics.

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Overall, eating disorders affect about 30 million people of all ages, both male and female. However, these disorders are most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 12 and 25.

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Eating disorders in teens are caused by many factors. Many blame the media first as a big culprit. Statistics show that the media does have an impact on one's obsession with weight. Television ads feature processed foods, commercials sell weight-loss supplements, and celebrity news glorifies famous thin people. Weight-loss strategies are often to help people achieve the body shape they want. But they have adverse effects on people who suffer from low self-esteem. Hence, this can eventually lead to an eating disorder. Overall, eating disorders affect about 30 million people of all ages, both male and female. However, these disorders are most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 12 and 25.

There are Multiple Types of Eating Disorders in Teens

Teen eating disorders cover a wide variety of problems. Anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating are the most common terms. With anorexia, patients often starve themselves or limit the type and quantity of food they eat. The idea is to maintain the body shape they perceive to be "perfect". Bulimia takes the same mentality to another extreme. These sufferers purge the food they eat by using laxatives, diuretics, or vomiting. This act is often followed by binge eating, and then purging again. This can tur into a cyclic pattern.

Binge-eating is characteristic of those who do not feel any control over their eating. They consume large amounts of food in one sitting but do not purge the food. As a result, these patients are typically obese or overweight. The shame associated with their binge-eating often spurs more eating and the addictive cycle continues.

Teen Eating Disorders Require Help

Unhealthy weight control habits are rampant among approximately half of all teenage girls and roughly 33% of boys, according to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). These bad habits include vomiting, smoking cigarettes, fasting, taking laxatives, and skipping meals.

The concern for these patients is heightened. This is because teen eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia nervosa, can lead to death. In fact, for females between the ages of 15 and 24, the mortality rate of anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than the rate linked to any other cause of death. Therefore, of all mental illnesses, eating disorders have been proven to show the highest mortality rate.

There are no clear reasons as to the cause of these teen eating disorders. In addition, most researchers point to a combination of psychological, genetic, biological, and social factors. Therefore, these disorders can often be a product of other mental illnesses. These may include depression or anxiety, and could be the byproduct of a substance abuse problem.

With the help of treatment programs dedicated to help teen eating disorders, there is hope for healing. Treatment programs include psychotherapists, medication, and even nutritional counseling. Many patients have been able to overcome their negative self-perceptions, but for others, the disorder is an ongoing battle, even while in treatment. The National Institution of Mental Health continues to conduct trials and further research to better understand teen eating disorders, and how to prevent them from affecting today's youth. This research, and the work of organizations like NEDA, could be the key to stopping this epidemic in its tracks.
Image courtesy of Unsplash.

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Teen Eating Disorders & What You Need to Know

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Eating disorders in teens are caused by many factors. Many blame the media first as a big culprit. Statistics show that the media does have an impact on one's obsession with weight. Television ads feature processed foods, commercials sell weight-loss supplements, and celebrity news glorifies famous thin people.

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5% of adolescent girls suffer from anorexia

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for.

First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy. Teen anorexics usually skip meals. They often eat only small portions or starve themselves. Furthermore, some compensate for starvation by taking diet pills, laxatives, or water in place of their meals. In a short time, teen anorexics suffer from malnourishment. They may have inadequate nutrients and vitamins to sustain. Hence, this condition needs to be monitored.

The Causes of Teen Anorexia

There are various causes of teen anorexia. Teen anorexics tend to get insecure and see themselves as overweight. As a result, teens who are anorexic seek out unreasonable body image goals. However, teen anorexia is not to be confused with dieting. Teens that are anorexic will go to extreme lengths to reach the body image they desire. In addition, they risk their health.

In most cases, anorexic teens believe they are benefiting themselves by eating less and getting thinner. They think they will be more appealing. Furthermore, they think they will be better people if they are just thin.

Teen Anorexia Statistics and Information

Teen anorexia statistics are scary. In the US, somewhere between 1 and 2 of every hundred teens struggle with anorexia at some time during their life. For some teens, anorexia is motivated by emotional problems. But, in others, peer pressure or social issues are to blame. In any case, too many teens suffer from anorexia and its unhealthy effects.

Teen Anorexia Statistics in the United States

85-90 percent of all Americans with an eating disorder are female. Five percent of adolescent girls suffer from anorexia

53 percent of American girls report that they are unhappy with their bodies at age thirteen. 78 percent are unhappy with their bodies at age seventeen

Many teens admit that they are influenced by popular media

Teen anorexia affects all social classes

In teens, anorexia is often triggered by a traumatic event, such as abuse or rape

Ten percent of teens with anorexia are male

Anorexia is most common during the teen years

Around 15 percent of teenage girls have some type of eating disorder or eating disorder related behavior

More than 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders each year, according to the NIH

Around a thousand women die each year from anorexia

5 to 20 percent of teens who have anorexia will die for reasons related to the disorder.

What to Do

Teen anorexia statistics prove that left untreated, it can be dangerous. It is even fatal. Consequently, if a teen you know suffers from anorexia, consider referring them to a physician or eating disorder specialist. Get help. You are not alone.

If you are not the parent, make sure that their parent or another adult is aware of their problem and of the anorexia's dangers. In conclusion, please call us today to find out more about our programs. We are here to help.

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Teen anorexia is a serious disorder. Troubled teens might turn to unhealthy lifestyles as a coping mechanism. Therefore, we must know what to look for. First of all, anorexia is a common behavior for struggling teens. Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is characterized by abnormal eating habits that are unhealthy.

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teens and adults have either low or high self esteam and need to help build it up not down

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How Can I Improve My Self-Esteem? (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth

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We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.

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8% of teens experince depression each year

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As much as 8% of teens experience depression each year, according to one survey.﻿ By the time young adults reach age 21, one study found that nearly 15% have had at least one episode of a mood disorder.﻿﻿ Depression can cause problems such as difficulties in school, difficulties with relationships, and decreased enjoyment of life. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide, one of the leading causes of death for teens in the United States.

Depression is an illness with many causes and many forms. It is a disorder of a person's moods or emotions-not an attitude that someone can "control" or "snap out of." But it is treatable with psychotherapy and/or medication, which is why it's especially important for parents and caregivers to educate themselves about the disorder.

Adults sometimes don't recognize symptoms of depression in teens because the disorder can look quite different from that in adults. A teenager with depression might have some or all of these signs of the illness:

Sad or depressed mood

Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Loss of interest in things they used to enjoy

Withdrawal from friends and family

Crying

Inability to sleep or sleeping too much

Loss of appetite or increased appetite

Aches and pains that don't go away, even with treatment

Irritability

Feeling tired despite getting enough sleep

Inability to concentrate

Thoughts of suicide, talk of suicide, or suicide attempts

Types of Teen Depression

The National Institute of Mental Health states that there are two common forms of depression found in teens: major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder (now known as persistent depressive disorder).

Major depressive disorder, also called major depression, is characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a person's ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Major depression is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally. An episode of major depression may occur only once in a person's lifetime, but more often, it recurs throughout a person's life.

Dysthymic disorder, also called dysthymia, is characterized by long-term (two years or longer) but less severe symptoms that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well. People with dysthymia may also experience one or more episodes of major depression during their lifetimes.

There are thought to be many causes of depression. There are most likely many factors behind who develops depression and who doesn't, and these factors are no different for teens.

Traumatic life event, such as the loss of a loved one or pet, divorce, or remarriage. Any event that causes distress or trauma, or even just a major change in lifestyle, can trigger depression in a vulnerable individual.

Social situation/family circumstances. Unfortunately, there are teens who live in difficult circumstances. Domestic violence, substance abuse, poverty or other family issues can cause stress and contribute to depression in a teen.

Genetics/biology. It has been found that depression runs in families and that there is a genetic basis for depression. Keep in mind, though, that teens who have depression in their family will not necessarily get the illness, and teens without a history of depression in their family can still get the disorder.

Medical conditions. Occasionally, symptoms of depression can be a sign of another medical illness, such as hypothyroidism, or other disorders.

Medications/illegal drugs. Some legal, prescription medications can have depression as a side effect. Certain illegal drugs (street drugs) can also cause depression.

Depression in teens is most often diagnosed by a primary care physician.

If teen depression is suspected, a doctor will often start with a physical exam that may include blood tests. Your teen's pediatrician will want to rule out any other medical illnesses that may be causing or contributing to your teen's symptoms.

Your child will also be given a psychological evaluation. This often involves a depression questionnaire as well as a discussion about the severity and duration of their symptoms.

The Guidelines for Adolescent Depression in Primary Care (GLAD-PC) recommend the following in the management of teen depression:

Educating teens and families about treatment options that are available

Developing a treatment plan that includes specific treatment goals that address functioning at home and school

Collaborating with other mental health resources in the community

Creating a safety plan with steps that should be taken if the teen's symptoms become worse or if they experience suicidal thinking

Considering active support and monitoring before beginning other treatments

Consulting a mental health specialist if symptoms are moderate or severe

Incorporating evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and antidepressants

Continuing to monitor symptoms and functioning during antidepressant treatment; doctors and family member should watch for signs that symptoms are worsening and for suicidal thinking or behaviors

Talk to your teen about your concerns. There may be a specific cause for why they are acting a certain way. Opening up the lines of communication lets your teenager know you care and that you are available to talk about the situation and provide support.

Other things that may help your teen manage symptoms of depression include:

Talking about concerns with family and friends

Having a healthy support system

Using good stress management techniques

Eating a healthy diet

Getting regular exercise

Finding new things to look forward to

Joining a support group, either offline or online

Also, talk to your pediatrician or family physician if you have concerns about your teen regarding depression. Your provider may be able to discuss the situation with your teen, rule out a medical reason for the behavior, recommend a psychotherapist, or prescribe medication.

Lastly, never ignore the signs or symptoms of depression. Depression is treatable and there is help available for both you and your teen. If left untreated, depression can lead to thoughts of suicide or even the act itself.

If your teen talks about suicide or attempts suicide, get help immediately. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cites suicide as the third leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10 and 24.

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Facts, Symptoms, and Causes of Teen Depression

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As much as 8% of teens experience depression each year, according to one survey.﻿ By the time young adults reach age 21, one study found that nearly 15% have had at least one episode of a mood disorder.﻿﻿ Depression can cause problems such as difficulties in school, difficulties with relationships, and decreased enjoyment of life.

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i think that some do and dont it really depends on whats around them and if they are living in a health inviroment

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abot 20% of teens have depression

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After a decline in the 1990s, the number of young people that commit suicide has been increasing every year. While no one can explain exactly why, many experts say adolescents and teens today probably face more pressures at home or school, worry about financial issues for their families, and use more alcohol and drugs. "This is a very dangerous time for our young people," Kathy Harms, a staff psychologist at Kansas City's Crittenton Children's Center, told the Portland Press Herald. "We're seeing more anxiety and depression in children of all ages."

Why Are So Many Teens Depressed?

Here are some disturbing statistics about teen depression. According to suicide.org, teen and adolescent suicides have continued to rise dramatically in recent years. Consider these alarming figures:

Every 100 minutes a teen takes their own life.

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24.

About 20 percent of all teens experience depression before they reach adulthood.

Between 10 to 15 percent suffer from symptoms at any one time.

Only 30 percent of depressed teens are being treated for it.

Some teens are more at risk for depression and suicide than others. These are known factors:

Female teens develop depression twice as often than males.

Abused and neglected teens are especially at risk.

Adolescents who suffer from chronic illnesses or other physical conditions are at risk.

Teens with a family history of depression or mental illness: between 20 to 50 percent of teens suffering from depression have a family member with depression or some other mental disorder.

Teens with untreated mental or substance-abuse problems: approximately two-thirds of teens with major depression also battle another mood disorder like dysthymia, anxiety, antisocial behaviors, or substance abuse.

Young people who experienced trauma or disruptions at home, including divorce and deaths of parents.

In an article in the Portland Press Herald by Laura Bauer and Mara Rose Williams, experts say teens seem to feel more hopeless than in previous years. Tony Jurich, a professor of family studies and human services at Kansas State University, told the newspaper, "Teens think they are invincible, so when they feel psychological pain, they are more apt to feel overwhelmed by hopelessness and the belief that they have no control over their lives." Jurich calls these feelings of hopelessness and helplessness "the Molotov cocktail that triggers teen suicide."

A new study led by Jean Twenge, a San Diego State University psychology professor, finds that five times as many high school and college students are dealing with anxiety and other mental health issues as youth of the same age did that were surveyed back during the era of the Great Depression. Twenge, who is also the author of Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled -and More Miserable Than Ever Before, analyzed the responses of over 77,000 college students surveyed from 1938 through 2007.

Are Teens Today Unprepared for Life's Challenges?

Some of the experts believe that we have raised our teens to have unrealistic expectations. Along with the messages from modern media sources that suggest that we should always feel good, they say many parents haven't taught their kids the kind of coping skills they need to survive in chaotic times.

Why are Today's Teens So Stressed Out?

"In my opinion, it's all of the above and more," writes Therese J. Borchard, author of Beyond Blue. "Most experts would agree with me that there is more stress today than in previous generations. Stress triggers depression and mood disorders, so that those who are predisposed to it by their creative wiring or genes are pretty much guaranteed some symptoms of depression at the confusing and difficult time of adolescence. I think modern lifestyles -lack of community and family support, less exercise, no casual and unstructured technology-free play, less sunshine and more computer -factors into the equation."

Borchard also wonders about the role of environmental factors such as diets of American processed fast foods and the possibility of increased exposure to toxins. She speculates that even if our brains are similar to research subjects in the past, our hectic lifestyles, environmental toxins, and other challenges may increase the stress factors that contribute to depression.

Intervention and Treatment

In the pages of her book, Ms. Borchard describes her own battle with depression and alcohol abuse as a teenager. "I could have very easily become one of the statistics -one of those deaths from teenage suicide that happens every 100 minutes," she writes. "What saved me? The loving intervention of a few adults in my life at that time. They saw the red flags, such as these, warning signs of teen depression that scream, 'Wake up! We have a problem on our hands.'"

Warning Signs of Depression in Teens

In an article for World of Psychology, Borchard lists these common indicators of depression among teens:

Sadness or hopelessness

Low self-esteem

Sluggishness (less active)

Substance abuse

Spending more time alone (this includes time alone from you as parents and time away from their regular friends)

Decrease in desire to do things they used to like to do (sports, activities, hobbies)

Physical ailments (headaches, appetite problems, sleeping problems)

Problems in school (falling grades, getting into trouble, not paying attention in class)

Talking about death or suicide (never to be taken lightly)

Not caring about appearance

Running away from home

The Risk of Suicide in Today's Teens

Any threat of suicide should be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger because of thoughts of suicide, please call 911 immediately.

If you do not live in the U.S., please call your local emergency number. Help is always available. Stay on the phone with the operator and wait for help to arrive.

Remember (or remind the one you love) that other people care. If you are not in immediate danger, but want to talk with someone about your suicidal feelings, you can call the National Hopeline Network for Suicide Prevention at 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-784-2433. Recognizing the red flags could save a life.

A Cry for Help or Something More?

"As a parent, I didn't notice the difference between depression and normal 15- and 16-year-old behavior until after the fact," Tracy Peter told the Portland Press Herald. Her son killed himself when he was only 16. "What if I had recognized the signs?" she wonders. Jurich calls hopelessness and helplessness "the Molotov cocktail that triggers teen suicide."

"Now let's get to the hope," Borchard says. "According to teendepression.org, 80 percent of teens with depression can be successfully treated if they seek the right help. I am part of that statistic. Teen depression doesn't have to mean a lifetime of struggle, and it certainly doesn't have to end in suicide."

Help is Available

If you think someone you love is struggling with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, gender identity issues or an eating disorder, call Discovery Mood today at 800.760.3934. We've been helping families find their way to lifelong recovery for nearly 20 years.

Call Us Now at 800.760.3934

Our personalized behavior modification programs are tailored to fit each family's needs. Discovery Mood provides effective multi-faceted levels of care that range from intensive outpatient treatment to residential treatment and partial hospitalization for adolescents and teens. Call now and speak with one of our highly trained admission specialists today. Or click on the link below for a FREE assessment or a virtual tour. All calls are completely FREE and completely confidential.

Related Articles on Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program:

Sources

1. Psych Central: Why Are So Many Teens Depressed? by Therese J. Borchard. Retrieved November 9, 2016.

2. Beyond Blue, by Therese J. Borchard. Retrieved November 9, 2016.

3. Suicide.org: Suicide hotline numbers by state. Retrieved November 9, 2016.

4. Portland Press Herald: A Very Dangerous Time Drives up Teen Suicides. Retrieved November 9, 2016.

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Depression Symptoms in Teens: Why Today's Teens Are More Depressed Than Ever

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Depression Symptoms in Teens: Why Today's Teens Are More Depressed Than EverAfter a decline in the 1990s, the number of young people that commit suicide has been increasing every year. While no one can explain exactly why, many experts say adolescents and teens today probably face more pressures

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2.8 million people between 12-17 have depression in the U.S

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2014 statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months:

17.3% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were female.

5.7% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were male.

5.7% were 12 years old.

8.7% were 13 years old.

10.7% were 14 years old.

13.0% were 15 years old.

14.1% were 16 years old.

15.1% were 17 years old.

2014 NIMH statistics show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months:

11.5% Hispanic

12.0% White

9.1% Black

10.4% Asian

6.9% American Indian/Alaska Native

12.5% were of 2 or more nationalities

Depression is the most common mental health disorder in the United States among teens and adults.

2.8 million youth age 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2014.

Between 10 to 15 percent of teenagers have some symptoms of teen depression at any one time.

About 5 percent of teens are suffering from major depression at any one time

As many as 8.3 percent of teens suffer depression for at least a year at a time, compared to about 5.3 percent of the general population.

Most teens with depression will suffer from more than one episode. 20 to 40 percent will have more than one episode within two years and 70 percent will have more than one episode before adulthood. Episodes of teen depression generally last about 8 months.

Dysthymia, a type of mild, long-lasting depression, affects about 2 percent of teens, and about the same percentage of teens develop bipolar disorder in their late teenage years. 15 percent of teens with depression eventually develop bipolar disorder.

A small percent of teens also suffer from seasonal depression, usually during the winter months in higher latitudes.

Teen depression can affect a teen regardless of gender, social background, income level, race, or school or other achievements, though teenage girls report suffering from depression more often than teenage boys. Teenage boys are also less likely to seek help or recognize that they suffer from depression, probably due to different social expectations for boys and girls - girls are encouraged to express their feelings while boys are not. Teenage girls' somewhat stronger dependence on social ties, however, can increase the chances of teen depression being triggered by social factors, such as loss of friends. Other risk factors that increase the chances of an episode of teen depression include:

Previous episodes of depression

Experiencing trauma, abuse, or a long-term illness or disability

A family history of depression; between 20 to 50 percent of teens who suffer from depression have a family member with depression or other mental disorders

Other untreated problems; about two thirds of teens with major depression also suffer from another mental disorder, such as dysthymia, addiction to drugs or alcohol, anxiety, or antisocial behaviors

30 percent of teens with depression also develop a substance abuse problem.

Teenagers with depression are likely to have a smaller social circle and take advantage of fewer opportunities for education or careers.

Depressed teens are more likely to have trouble at school and in jobs, and to struggle with relationships.

Teens with untreated depression are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, leading to higher rates of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Teens with depression seem to catch physical illnesses more often than other teens.

Untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide, the third leading cause of death among teenagers.

90 percent of suicide victims suffer from a mental illness, and suffering from depression can make a teenager as much as 12 times more likely to attempt suicide.

Less than 33 percent of teens with depression get help, yet 80 percent of teens with depression can be successfully treated.

Teen Depression Statistics Sources:

1. nimh.nih.gov "Major Depression Among Adolescents" [online]

2. Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General [online]

3. Kidshealth.org from the Nemours Foundation, "Understanding Depression" [online]

4. Center for Mental Health Services, SAMHSA, A Family Guide, Keeping Youth Mentally Healthy and Drug Free, "Depression Hurts" [online]

5. U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, "Depression signs in Teenagers" [online]

6. Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General, "Depression and Suicide in children and adolescents" [online]

7. WebMD.com : Depression in Childhood and Adolescence [online]

8. WebMD/The Cleveland Clinic "Seasonal Depression" [online]

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Teen Depression Statistics & Facts - Teen Help

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2014 statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months: 17.3% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were female. 5.7% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were male.

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75 percent of girls have low self-esteem. Only 20 percent of girls have high self-esteem.

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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1/5 kids have sometype of deprseion

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Mental health is an important part of children's overall health and well-being. Mental health includes children's mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. It affects how children think, feel, and act. It also plays a role in how children handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Mental disorders among children are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, causing distress and problems getting through the day. Among the more common mental disorders that can be diagnosed in childhood are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and behavior disorders.

There are different ways to assess mental health and mental disorders in children. CDC uses surveys, like the National Survey of Children's Health, to describe the presence of positive indicators of children's mental health and to understand the number of children with diagnosed mental disorders and whether they received treatment. In this type of survey, parents report on indicators of positive mental health for their child and report any diagnoses their child has received from a healthcare provider. The information on this page provides data about indicators of positive mental health in children and mental health disorders that are most common in children.

Facts about mental health in U.S. children

National data on positive mental health indicators that describe mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being for children are limited. Based on the data we do have:

Facts about mental disorders in U.S. children

ADHD, anxiety problems, behavior problems, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Estimates for ever having a diagnosis among children aged 3-17 years, in 2016-19, are given below.

ADHD 9.8% (approximately 6.0 million)

Anxiety 9.4% (approximately 5.8 million)

Behavior problems 8.9% (approximately 5.5 million)

Depression 4.4% (approximately 2.7 million)

Some of these conditions commonly occur together. For example, among children aged 3-17 years in 2016:

Having another mental disorder was most common in children with depression: about 3 in 4 children with depression also had anxiety (73.8%) and almost 1 in 2 had behavior problems (47.2%).

For children with anxiety, more than 1 in 3 also had behavior problems (37.9%) and about 1 in 3 also had depression (32.3%).

For children with behavior problems, more than 1 in 3 also had anxiety (36.6%) and about 1 in 5 also had depression (20.3%).

For adolescents, depression, substance use and suicide are important concerns. Among adolescents aged 12-17 years in 2018-2019 reporting on the past year:

Learn more about high-risk substance use among youth. Learn more about suicide.

Mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood
1 in 6 U.S. children aged 2-8 years (17.4%) had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.

Prevalence of mental disorders change with age

Diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety, and depression become are more common with increased age.

Behavior problems are more common among children aged 6-11 years than younger or older children.

Adverse childhood events (ACEs) are associated with children's physical and mental health. In 2016-2019, among children aged 6-17 years:

Children who were discriminated against based on race or ethnicity had higher percentages of one or more physical health conditions (37.8% versus 27.1%), and one or more mental health conditions (28.9% versus 17.8%).

Racial/ethnic discrimination was almost seven times as common among children with three other ACEs compared to those with no other ACEs.

Note: The estimates reported on this page are based on parent report, using nationally representative surveys. This method has several limitations. It is not known to what extent children receive these diagnoses accurately. Estimates based on parent-reported diagnoses may match those based on medical records, but some children may also have mental disorders that have not been diagnosed, or receive diagnoses that may not be the best fit for their symptoms. Limited information on measuring children's mental health nationally is available.

Read more about children's mental health from a community study.

Access to mental health treatment

Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Access to providers who can offer services, including screening, referrals, and treatment, varies by location. CDC is working to learn more about access to behavioral health services and supports for children and their families.
View information by state describing the rates of different types of providers who can offer behavioral health services providers by county. Read a recent report describing shortages of services, barriers to treatment, and how integration of behavioral health care with pediatric primary care could address the issues. Read a policy brief on potential ways to increase access to mental health services for children in rural areas
Data sources for mental health and related conditions

There are many different datasets which include information on children's mental health and related conditions for children living in the United States.

Healthy People 2030
Healthy People 2030 sets data-driven national objectives to improve health and well-being over the next decade, including children's mental health and well-being.

National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG)
NSFG gathers information on family life, marriage and divorce, pregnancy, infertility, use of contraception, and general and reproductive health.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
NHANES assesses health and nutritional status through interviews and physical examinations, and includes conditions, symptoms, and concerns associated with mental health and substance abuse, as well as the use and need for mental health services.

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)
NHIS collects data on children's mental health, mental disorders, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, depression and anxiety problems, and use and need for mental health services.

National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH)
NSCH examines the health of children, with emphasis on well-being, including medical homes, family interactions, the health of parents, school and after-school experiences, and safe neighborhoods. This survey was redesigned in 2016.

For previous versions of this survey, see also:
National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH 2003, 2007, 2011-12)
National Survey of Children with Special Healthcare Needs (NS-CSHCN 2001, 2005-6, 2009-10)

National Survey of the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD and Tourette Syndrome (NS-DATA)
NS-DATA collects information about children, 2-15 years old in 2011-2012, who had ever been diagnosed with ADHD and/or Tourette syndrome (TS), with the goal of better understanding diagnostic practices, level of impairment, and treatments for this group of children.

National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)
NSDUH, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), provides national- and state-level data on the use of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs (including non-medical use of prescription drugs), as well as data on mental health in the United States.

National Vital Statistics System (NVSS)
NVSS contains vital statistics from the official records of live births, deaths, causes of death, marriages, divorces, and annulment recorded by states and independent registration areas

National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS)
NYTS is a nationally representative school-based survey on tobacco use by public school students enrolled in grades 6-12.

School Associated Violent Death Study (SAVD)
SAVD plays an important role in monitoring trends related to school-associated violent deaths (including suicide), identifying the factors that increase the risk, and assessing the effects of prevention efforts.

School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS)
SHPPS is a national survey assessing school health policies and practices at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. Collected data includes mental health and social service policies.

Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS)
WISQARS is an interactive database system that provides customized reports of injury-related data.

Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
The YRBSS monitors health-risk behaviors, including tobacco use, substance abuse, unintentional injuries and violence, sexual behaviors that contribute to unintended pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases.

References

1. Perou R, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ, Pastor P, Ghandour RM, Gfroerer JC, Hedden SL, Crosby AE, Visser SN, Schieve LA, Parks SE, Hall JE, Brody D, Simile CM, Thompson WW, Baio J, Avenevoli S, Kogan MD, Huang LN. Mental health surveillance among children - United States, 2005-2011. MMWR 2013;62(Suppl; May 16, 2013):1-35. [Read summary]

2. Bitsko RH, Claussen AH, Lichtstein J, Black LJ, Everett Jones S, Danielson MD, Hoenig JM, Davis Jack SP, Brody DJ, Gyawali S, Maenner MM, Warner M, Holland KM, Perou R, Crosby AE, Blumberg SJ, Avenevoli S, Kaminski JW, Ghandour RM. Surveillance of Children's Mental Health - United States, 2013 - 2019 MMWR, , 2022 / 71(Suppl-2);1-42. [Read article]

3. Ghandour RM, Sherman LJ, Vladutiu CJ, Ali MM, Lynch SE, Bitsko RH, Blumberg SJ. Prevalence and treatment of depression, anxiety, and conduct problems in U.S. children. The Journal of Pediatrics, 2018. Published online before print October 12, 2018 [Read summary]

4. Bitsko RH, Holbrook JR, Ghandour RM, Blumberg SJ, Visser SN, Perou R, Walkup J. Epidemiology and impact of healthcare provider diagnosed anxiety and depression among US children. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Published online before print April 24, 2018 [Read summary]

5. Cree RA, Bitsko RH, Robinson LR, Holbrook JR, Danielson ML, Smith DS, Kaminski JW, Kenney MK, Peacock G. Health care, family, and community factors associated with mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders and poverty among children aged 2-8 years - United States, 2016. MMWR, 2018;67(5):1377-1383. [Read article]

6. Hutchins HJ, Barry CM, Valentine V, Bacon S, Njai R, Claussen AH, Ghandour RM, Lebrun-Harris LA, Perkins K, Robinson LR (submitted). Perceived racial/ethnic discrimination, physical and mental health conditions in childhood, and the relative role of other adverse experiences. Adversity and Resilience Science published online May 23, 2022. [Read summary]

7. US Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration & Maternal and Child Health Bureau. Mental health: A report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: US Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services, and National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health; 1999. [Read report]

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Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health | CDC

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Read data highlights about children's mental health.

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In 2015, about 3 million teens ages 12 to 17 had had at least one major depressive episode
in the past year, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

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8.5 teens struggle with depression

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Overview

Teen depression is a serious mental health problem that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and it can cause emotional, functional and physical problems. Although depression can occur at any time in life, symptoms may be different between teens and adults.

Issues such as peer pressure, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for some teens, the lows are more than just temporary feelings - they're a symptom of depression.

Teen depression isn't a weakness or something that can be overcome with willpower - it can have serious consequences and requires long-term treatment. For most teens, depression symptoms ease with treatment such as medication and psychological counseling.

Symptoms

Teen depression signs and symptoms include a change from the teenager's previous attitude and behavior that can cause significant distress and problems at school or home, in social activities, or in other areas of life.

Depression symptoms can vary in severity, but changes in your teen's emotions and behavior may include the examples below.

Emotional changes

Be alert for emotional changes, such as:

Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason

Frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters

Feeling hopeless or empty

Irritable or annoyed mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities

Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends

Low self-esteem

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism

Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance

Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things

Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak

Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide

Behavioral changes

Watch for changes in behavior, such as:

Tiredness and loss of energy

Insomnia or sleeping too much

Changes in appetite - decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain

Use of alcohol or drugs

Agitation or restlessness - for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still

Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements

Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse

Social isolation

Poor school performance or frequent absences from school

Less attention to personal hygiene or appearance

Angry outbursts, disruptive or risky behavior, or other acting-out behaviors

Self-harm - for example, cutting or burning

Making a suicide plan or a suicide attempt

What's normal and what's not

It can be difficult to tell the difference between ups and downs that are just part of being a teenager and teen depression. Talk with your teen. Try to determine whether he or she seems capable of managing challenging feelings, or if life seems overwhelming.

When to see a doctor

If depression signs and symptoms continue, begin to interfere in your teen's life, or cause you to have concerns about suicide or your teen's safety, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Your teen's family doctor or pediatrician is a good place to start. Or your teen's school may recommend someone.

Depression symptoms likely won't get better on their own - and they may get worse or lead to other problems if untreated. Depressed teenagers may be at risk of suicide, even if signs and symptoms don't appear to be severe.

If you're a teen and you think you may be depressed - or you have a friend who may be depressed - don't wait to get help. Talk to a health care provider such as your doctor or school nurse. Share your concerns with a parent, a close friend, a spiritual leader, a teacher or someone else you trust.

Symptoms

Suicide is often associated with depression. If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Also consider these options if you're having suicidal thoughts:

Call your mental health professional.

Contact a suicide hotline.

In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. The Spanish language phone line is 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free). Services are free and confidential.

Or contact a crisis service for teenagers in the U.S. called TXT 4 HELP: Text the word "safe" and your current location to 4HELP (44357) for immediate help, with the option for interactive texting.

Seek help from your primary care doctor or other health care provider.

Reach out to a close friend or loved one.

Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.

If a loved one or friend is in danger of attempting suicide or has made an attempt:

Make sure someone stays with that person.

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Or, if you can do so safely, take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Never ignore comments or concerns about suicide. Always take action to get help.

Causes

It's not known exactly what causes depression, but a variety of issues may be involved. These include:

Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When these chemicals are abnormal or impaired, the function of nerve receptors and nerve systems changes, leading to depression.

Hormones. Changes in the body's balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression.

Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives - such as a parent or grandparent - also have the condition.

Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events during childhood, such as physical or emotional abuse, or loss of a parent, may cause changes in the brain that increase the risk of depression.

Learned patterns of negative thinking. Teen depression may be linked to learning to feel helpless - rather than learning to feel capable of finding solutions for life's challenges.

Risk factors

Many factors increase the risk of developing or triggering teen depression, including:

Having issues that negatively impact self-esteem, such as obesity, peer problems, long-term bullying or academic problems

Having been the victim or witness of violence, such as physical or sexual abuse

Having other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, an anxiety disorder, a personality disorder, anorexia or bulimia

Having a learning disability or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Having ongoing pain or a chronic physical illness such as cancer, diabetes or asthma

Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical or pessimistic

Abusing alcohol, nicotine or other drugs

Being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender in an unsupportive environment

Family history and issues with family or others may also increase your teenager's risk of depression, such as:

Having a parent, grandparent or other blood relative with depression, bipolar disorder or alcohol use problems

Having a family member who died by suicide

Having a family with major communication and relationship problems

Having experienced recent stressful life events, such as parental divorce, parental military service or the death of a loved one

Complications

Untreated depression can result in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your teenager's life. Complications related to teen depression may include, for example:

Alcohol and drug misuse

Academic problems

Family conflicts and relationship difficulties

Suicide attempts or suicide

Prevention

There's no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help. Encourage your teenager to:

Take steps to control stress, increase resilience and boost self-esteem to help handle issues when they arise

Practice self-care, for example by creating a healthy sleep routine and using electronics responsibly and in moderation

Reach out for friendship and social support, especially in times of crisis

Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening

Maintain ongoing treatment, if recommended, even after symptoms let up, to help prevent a relapse of depression symptoms

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This serious mental health problem affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and can cause emotional, functional and physical problems.

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3.2 million teens 12-17 had a major depressive stage

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Your teen years are full of significant changes. Physically, mentally, and socially - your brain, body, and environment are going through a major evolution.

You might feel bogged down from the demands of high school and college assignments piling up. Or you may feel sadness about transitioning to a more independent and unfamiliar life. Throw in a worldwide pandemic, and it's no surprise that uneasy feelings are on the rise, as shown by recent teen depression statistics and research.

These changes can easily become overwhelming. Understandably, you might shut down, become irritable, or lose interest in the activities that previously made you light up.

While these responses are valid and usual, depression is a condition that's much more serious than fleeting teen moodiness.

If negative emotions are keeping keep you from functioning like you usually do, or you've experienced a sense of hopelessness for more than 2 weeks, you might want to consider treatment for depression.

1. It's more common than you might think

Everyone goes through a rough patch or feels listless on occasion. But major depression is a leading cause of disability in the United States, and teens are becoming the most likely group to screen for symptoms of this mental health condition.

Data shows that depression affects high numbers of young people:

Data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health showed that 3.2% of children ages 3 to 17 had a depression diagnosis. The frequency of depression diagnosis tends to increase as children enter their teen years.

Around teens ages 12 to 17 had one major depressive episode in 2017.

According to a 2021 Mental Health America (MHA) report, severe major depression has increased in youth to 9.7%. This is an increase from 9.2% in 2020.

The 2021 MHA report also states that youth ages 11 to 17 were the most likely age group to score in the moderate-to-severe depression categories when screened for mental health conditions.

The symptoms of depression might be a bit different in teens and adults. You can read about the symptoms of depression in teens here.

2. Depression rates are higher in females and gender minority teens

While depression can affect teens of any sex and gender identity, a study published by the JAMA Network found that by 15 years old, females were twice as likely to have experienced episodic depression than males.

When comparing male and female depression rates, depression continues to present at a higher rate in females than males from the teen years into adulthood.

Also, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors leading to depression are highest among adolescents and young adults who identify with a gender minority, such as transgender, genderqueer, and nonbinary.

3. Teens with two or more racial or ethnic identities report the highest rates of depression

Your teen years are often called the "coming-of-age" era for a reason. You're discovering, questioning, and deciding many aspects of your identity, including what your cultural, racial, and ethnic identity means in your life.

This, coupled with societal pressures and prejudices, can reasonably leave you feeling stressed and emotionally shaken up.

Teens ages 12 to 17 years old with more than one racial identity are the most at-risk racial or ethnic group to report a major depressive episode, according to data published by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services in 2017.

American Indian/Alaskan Native teenagers reported the second highest rates of depression at .

4. LGBTQ+ teens are at greater risk for depression

Recent research shows that sexual identity can impact rates of depression among teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are at a higher risk for depression, suicide, and substance use.

But factors like supportive parents and an accepting atmosphere at school can also decrease the risk of depression in LGBTQ+ adolescents.

5. Most teens with depression are not receiving treatment

Depression is not a weakness, and you should never feel ashamed of a depression diagnosis. While major depression is a widespread mental health condition, it still requires attention and professional treatment.

You may be tempted to ignore your negative feelings and symptoms associated with depression, but a consistent treatment plan is vital for depression management.

Left untreated, depression has a higher chance of recurring throughout your lifetime.

According to the MHA, the majority of adolescents with depression - 60% - did not receive treatment for their major depression from 2017 to 2018. Further, more than two-thirds of adolescents diagnosed with depression did not continue with consistent treatment.

6. COVID has increased depression and uncertainty in teens

As if the normal stressors and changes happening during your teen years weren't enough, for many, the pandemic has upended any remaining sense of normalcy and routine as well.

Quarantine, loss of social interactions, illness, fear of illness, the loss of loved ones, and financial distress are only some of the compounding and life-altering stressors that teens have faced since March 2020.

These changes have had a lasting physical and psychological impact on U.S. society. According to teen depression statistics in the Stress in America 2020 survey, Generation Z teens and young adults ages 13 to 23 years old have reported increased uncertainty and depression symptoms.

For all ages, loneliness and isolation trended as the top reason for uncertainty and mental health conditions during the pandemic.

7. There's no single cause of depression

Depression often brings deeply negative or apathetic feelings, but it's important to remember that these emotions do not reflect any character flaws.

In fact, depression often stems from events outside of your control, such as:

Depression can also accompany or become exacerbated by existing medical conditions. These include:

Of course, depression can also develop without a specific triggering event or preexisting condition, just as it can result from numerous sources. Exploring the causes of your depression with a professional can help you determine the most effective treatment plan.

8. There are many types of depression

If you feel depressed, it does not automatically mean you have a depressive disorder. Depression may be a symptom of another physical or psychological medical condition.

Depression could also be a natural response to a major stressor and does not indicate that you'll need to prepare to live with recurring depression.

Some types of depression include:

No matter what form your depression takes, it's important to work with a medical professional to identify the type of depression you are experiencing and, ultimately, develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Teenage Depression: Facts and Statistics

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Depression is more common in teens than you might think. We look at the facts and statistics.

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1 in 5 teens will have depression

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Teen Depression Statistics - Troubled Teens

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Teen Depression Statistics and Teen Depression Facts for parents with depressed teenagers.

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5,000 15 to 24 are killing themselves

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It's not unusual for young people to experience "the blues" or feel "down in the dumps" occasionally. Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life.

Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment. When things go wrong at school or at home, teens often overreact. Many young people feel that life is not fair or that things "never go their way." They feel "stressed out" and confused. To make matters worse, teens are bombarded by conflicting messages from parents, friends and society. Today's teens see more of what life has to offer - both good and bad - on television, at school, in magazines and on the Internet. They are also forced to learn about the threat of AIDS, even if they are not sexually active or using drugs.

Teens need adult guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are experiencing. When teens' moods disrupt their ability to function on a day-to-day basis, it may indicate a serious emotional or mental disorder that needs attention - adolescent depression. Parents or caregivers must take action.

Dealing With Adolescent Pressures

When teens feel down, there are ways they can cope with these feelings to avoid serious depression. All of these suggestions help develop a sense of acceptance and belonging that is so important to adolescents.

Try to make new friends. Healthy relationships with peers are central to teens' self-esteem and provide an important social outlet.

Participate in sports, job, school activities or hobbies. Staying busy helps teens focus on positive activities rather than negative feelings or behaviors.

Join organizations that offer programs for young people. Special programs geared to the needs of adolescents help develop additional interests.

Ask a trusted adult for help. When problems are too much to handle alone, teens should not be afraid to ask for help.

But sometimes, despite everyone's best efforts, teens become depressed. Many factors can contribute to depression. Studies show that some depressed people have too much or too little of certain brain chemicals. Also, a family history of depression may increase the risk for developing depression. Other factors that can contribute to depression are difficult life events (such as death or divorce), side-effects from some medications and negative thought patterns.

Recognizing Adolescent Depression

Adolescent depression is increasing at an alarming rate. Recent surveys indicate that as many as one in five teens suffers from clinical depression. This is a serious problem that calls for prompt, appropriate treatment. Depression can take several forms, including bipolar disorder (formally called manic-depression), which is a condition that alternates between periods of euphoria and depression.

Depression can be difficult to diagnose in teens because adults may expect teens to act moody. Also, adolescents do not always understand or express their feelings very well. They may not be aware of the symptoms of depression and may not seek help.

These symptoms may indicate depression, particularly when they last for more than two weeks:

A quick, easy and confidential way to determine if you may be experiencing depression is to take a mental health screening. A screening is not a diagnosis, but a way of understanding if your symptoms are having enough of an impact that you should seek help from a doctor or other professional. Visit www.mhascreening.org to take a depression screening.

Teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol or become sexually promiscuous to avoid feelings of depression. Teens also may express their depression through hostile, aggressive, risk-taking behavior. But such behaviors only lead to new problems, deeper levels of depression and destroyed relationships with friends, family, law enforcement or school officials.

Treating Adolescent Depression
It is extremely important that depressed teens receive prompt, professional treatment.
Depression is serious and, if left untreated, can worsen to the point of becoming life-threatening. If depressed teens refuse treatment, it may be necessary for family members or other concerned adults to seek professional advice.

Therapy can help teens understand why they are depressed and learn how to cope with stressful situations. Depending on the situation, treatment may consist of individual, group or family counseling. Medications that can be prescribed by a psychiatrist may be necessary to help teens feel better.

Some of the most common and effective ways to treat depression in adolescents are:

When depressed adolescents recognize the need for help, they have taken a major step toward recovery. However, remember that few adolescents seek help on their own. They may need encouragement from their friends and support from concerned adults to seek help and follow treatment recommendations.

Facing the Danger Of Teen Suicide

Sometimes teens feel so depressed that they consider ending their lives. Each year, almost 5,000 young people, ages 15 to 24, kill themselves. The rate of suicide for this age group has nearly tripled since 1960, making it the third leading cause of death in adolescents and the second leading cause of death among college-age youth.

Studies show that suicide attempts among young people may be based on long-standing problems triggered by a specific event. Suicidal adolescents may view a temporary situation as a permanent condition. Feelings of anger and resentment combined with exaggerated guilt can lead to impulsive, self-destructive acts.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Four out of five teens who attempt suicide have given clear warnings. Pay attention to these warning signs:

REMEMBER!!! These warning signs should be taken seriously. Obtain help immediately. Caring and support can save a young life.

Helping Suicidal Teens

Offer help and listen. Encourage depressed teens to talk about their feelings. Listen, don't lecture.

Trust your instincts. If it seems that the situation may be serious, seek prompt help. Break a confidence if necessary, in order to save a life.

Pay attention to talk about suicide. Ask direct questions and don't be afraid of frank discussions. Silence is deadly!

Seek professional help. It is essential to seek expert advice from a mental health professional who has experience helping depressed teens. Also, alert key adults in the teen's life - family, friends and teachers.

Looking To The Future

When adolescents are depressed, they have a tough time believing that their outlook can improve. But professional treatment can have a dramatic impact on their lives. It can put them back on track and bring them hope for the future.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Other Resources

The Boys Town National Hotline. (800)-448-3000.

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
3615 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20016-3007
Phone Number: (202) 966-7300
Email Address: clinical@aacap.org
Website URL: www.aacap.org

American Association of Suicidology
4201 Connecticut Avenue NW; Suite 310
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: 202-237-2280

Suicide Awareness/Voices of Prevention
The Jed Foundation. Suicide prevention for college students.

Covenant House. Resources for homeless and at-risk children.

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It's not unusual for young people to experience "the blues" or feel "down in the dumps" occasionally. Adolescence is always an unsettling time, with the many physical, emotional, psychological and social changes that accompany this stage of life. Unrealistic academic, social, or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment.

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I think teens strugle with mental health. Teens such as me may have anger issues. Some may have a eating disorder or low self esteem. Lots of teens have a mental health issue.

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Numbers of teens in the U.S with depression are growing

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Depression has become increasingly common among American teenagers - especially teen girls, who are now almost three times as likely as teen boys to have had recent experiences with depression.

In 2017, 13% of U.S. teens ages 12 to 17 (or 3.2 million) said they had experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year, up from 8% (or 2 million) in 2007, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of data from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

One-in-five teenage girls - or nearly 2.4 million - had experienced at least one major depressive episode (the proxy measure of depression used in this analysis) over the past year in 2017. By comparison, 7% of teenage boys (or 845,000) had at least one major depressive episode in the past 12 months.

The total number of teenagers who recently experienced depression increased 59% between 2007 and 2017. The rate of growth was faster for teen girls (66%) than for boys (44%).

While teenage girls are more likely to have faced depression than their male peers, they are also more likely to have received treatment by seeing a professional or taking medication. Among teen girls who had recent depressive episodes, 45% received treatment for depression over the past year. By comparison, 33% of teen boys with recent depressive episodes received treatment.

The number of adults who had experienced depression also increased from 14.8 million in 2007 to 17.3 million in 2017, though the share remained the same (7%). Adults also differed by gender in their experiences with depression (9% of women vs. 5% of men).

Adults who have experienced depression are treated at higher rates than teens. Among adults who had recent depressive episodes, about two-thirds (67%) received treatment. Again, women who had a recent experience with depression (72%) were more likely than men (58%) to receive treatment.

Teens express concern about anxiety and depression among peers, feel day-to-day pressures

Seven-in-ten U.S. teens said anxiety and depression is a major problem among people their age in the community where they live, according to a Pew Research Center survey of teenagers ages 13 to 17 conducted in fall 2018. An additional 26% cited anxiety and depression as a minor problem.

About three-in-ten teens (29%) said they felt tense or nervous about their day every or almost every day, and 45% said they felt tense or nervous sometimes. About a third of teen girls (36%) reported feeling this way every day or almost every day, compared with 23% of teen boys.

Academic and social pressures are among the reasons cited by experts who have studied teen depression. The Center's survey asked about some of those pressures teens face in their daily lives. About six-in-ten teens (61%) said they personally felt a lot of pressure to get good grades, while roughly three-in-ten reported a lot of pressure to look good and fit in socially (29% and 28%, respectively).

About this analysis

This analysis uses data from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), which is directed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and overseen by the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality.

"Major depressive episode" is used throughout this analysis as a proxy measure of depression; as such, that term and "depression" are used interchangeably. A " major depressive episode " is defined as a period of at least two weeks when a person experienced a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities and had a majority of specific depression symptoms in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). "Treatment" of depression is defined in the NSDUH survey as seeing or talking to a health or alternative service professional or using prescription medication for depression in the past year.

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A growing number of American teenagers - particularly girls - are facing depression

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Depression is rising among American teenagers, and teen girls are particularly likely to have had recent depressive episodes.

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50% of teens have a high self esteem

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Abstract

Objective

Low self-esteem in adolescents has been associated with a number of risk and protective factors in previous studies, but results have been mixed. Our objective was to examine characteristics associated with low self-esteem in a large national sample of young adolescents.

Design/Methods

Population-based correlational study. A sample of 6522 adolescents, aged 12-16 years, was surveyed by phone as part of a national study of media and substance use. Self-esteem was measured with three questions that assessed global self worth and physical appearance. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the relation between self-esteem and socio-demographics, child personality characteristics, weight status, daily TV time, parenting style, school performance and team sports participation. Interactions among gender, race, and weight status were examined.

Results

In multivariate analysis, female gender, Hispanic race, overweight and obesity, sensation seeking, rebelliousness, and daily TV time were each independently associated with lower self-esteem. Teens of Black race, with higher parental responsiveness and demandingness, better school performance or involvement in team sports were less likely to report low self-esteem. Black females were at lower risk and Hispanic males were at higher risk for low esteem than peers of similar gender of other races.

Conclusions

Low self-esteem was associated with a number of modifiable risk factors including obesity, television time, team sports participation, school performance and parenting style that should be discussed with teens and parents at health supervision visits. Further research examining race and gender-specific factors that serve to moderate risk for poor self-esteem in adolescents is warranted.

Keywords: Adolescent, self-esteem, obesity

Introduction

Self-esteem, as an overall reflection of an individual's self-worth, encompasses beliefs about oneself as well as an emotional response to those beliefs. Representing the capacity to feel worthy of happiness and be able to successfully address life challenges, self-esteem is an important determinant of adolescent mental health and development. , Accordingly, low self-esteem has been associated with a number of psychological, physical, and social consequences that may influence successful adolescent development and the transition to adulthood, including depression, anxiety, suicide and disordered eating, ⁻ violent behavior, earlier initiation of sexual activity (in girls), and substance use. Recent research also suggests that low self-esteem in adolescence may be a harbinger for poor longer-term outcomes, such as fewer years of post-secondary education, greater likelihood of joblessness and financial difficulties,, as well as poorer mental/physical health and higher rates of criminal behavior. Identification of modifiable risk factors for low self-esteem in adolescents is important in developing interventions to prevent and to enhance adolescents' self-esteem.

Self-esteem research has been conducted for several decades, but researchers have yet to reach a consensus on a definition for this construct. Several comprehensive assessment scales have been reported including Rosenberg's self-esteem scale, the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale, and Harter's Self-Perception Profile. The former focuses on a global measure, while the latter two scales evaluate specific dimensions of self-esteem (i.e. physical appearance) and then aggregate scores to form a global score. The current study utilizes an abbreviated version of Harter's Self-Perceptions Profile for Children and incorporates those domains that capture global self-worth and comfort with one's appearance.

Many publications have explored risk and protective factors for the development of low self-esteem during adolescence, but much of the research is limited by small sample sizes, regional populations and inconsistent inclusion of covariates. Reported risk factors include older age, female gender,, ⁻ low socioeconomic status, nontraditional family structure, having special health care needs, exposure to school violence, parental aggravation or family stress, and higher TV viewing. A relationship between weight status (overweight and obesity) and low self-esteem has also been demonstrated, however results have been mixed with some studies showing lower self-esteem among obese adolescents, , , and others finding associations only among subgroups based on age or race,, or for a particular domain of self-esteem., ⁻ Wang and Vuegelers identified both risk and protective factors with complex relations between self-esteem, body mass index (BMI), school performance and a number of socio-demographic risk factors. Elevated BMI and sedentary behavior were risks for low esteem, but greater parent education, higher household income, greater physical activity and better school performance were protective. Other protective factors include physical activity, better health, positive family communication and closeness, more authoritative parenting, perceived teacher support, feeling safe in school and being part of a religious community.

Additional complexity has been identified when researchers have assessed interactions between self-esteem and race/gender. A number of longitudinal studies have demonstrated that Black adolescents are less likely to have low self-esteem compared with their White counterparts; the association between Hispanic race and self-esteem has been less studied and offers mixed results. In a national longitudinal sample, Black and Hispanic race both predicted higher self-esteem among female adolescents. This finding confirmed earlier work by Brown et al demonstrating greater stability of self-esteem and satisfaction with physical appearance among Black adolescent girls as well as a study by Youngblade et al that showed Hispanic ethnicity (both genders) to be protective in a large national sample of US adolescents using a single item measure of self-esteem. In contrast, other studies, including a meta-analysis, demonstrated lower self-esteem among Hispanics when compared to Black and White peers., This heterogeneity of results has been attributed, in part, to study design (sample, esteem scale used, definition of race/ethnicity, analyses) but also to variation in ethnic identity over time and among populations., , , Ethnic identity has been shown to be an important predictor of self-esteem in adolescents and may mediate the complex associations between race, gender and other predictors of esteem that put adolescents at risk for poor health outcomes.

As briefly reviewed above, the literature to date suggests a number of risk and protective factors for low self-esteem with potentially important differences across gender and race. Results have been mixed, however, in part because few studies have included a broad range of covariates simultaneously in a large sample. This population-based correlational study aims to advance the current understanding of risk factors for low self-esteem in adolescents by assessing, in a large national sample of US adolescents, a number of intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with low self-esteem as defined by perception of physical appearance and self-worth. The current study adds to previous research by utilizing a large, nationally representative sample of adolescents, and by employing a multivariate approach that controls for multiple relevant covariates. This work extends previous research by examining complex interactions between self-esteem, gender, race, and weight status in this national sample. Identifying modifiable risk factors and better understanding the multiple influences at play may guide efforts to bolster self-esteem among adolescents.

Methods

Recruitment

A detailed description of recruitment methods has been previously published. Briefly, a national random-digit-dial (RDD) telephone survey recruited 6522 10 to 14 year old US adolescents for a national study of media and substance use. Westat, a national research organization, conducted baseline and follow-up surveys using computer assisted telephone interviews. The baseline survey was conducted in 2003 with three follow up surveys at 8 month intervals. Parental consent and adolescent assent were obtained verbally by Westat staff prior to each interview: parents were asked "Do you give your permission for ≪NAME/AGE/SEX≫ to participate in this Dartmouth Medical School study?" Adolescents were informed that their parent had given permission for them to participate in the study and they were then asked whether they were willing to go ahead with survey items. To protect confidentiality, adolescents entered responses to all sensitive questions (e.g. tobacco, alcohol use) using the telephone touch pad. The survey was approved by the Human Subjects Protection Committees at Dartmouth Medical School and Westat. The survey response rate (as determined by the Council of American Survey Research Organizations' standard) was 32% and the cooperation rate (completed interviews divided by eligible households) was 66%, which is typical for RDD surveys. The un-weighted baseline sample was representative of 2000 US Census data for age, gender, region of the country and family income. Compared with census, there was slight under-representation of Blacks and over-representation of Hispanics. Reliability coefficients (Cronbach's alpha) were computed for all derived measures. Data for this analysis was collected from June to October of 2003. In addition, BMI was assessed from June to October of 2005, in a later survey wave.

Measures

[see appendix table for detailed survey items]

Outcome measure

Self-esteem was the primary outcome measure, assessed using selected measures from the Harter Self Perception Profile for Children. A composite score was derived from three survey items that assessed domains of global self-worth and physical appearance. Survey items included "I like myself the way I am", "I am happy with the way I look", and "I wish I were someone else". Participants were asked to respond whether they felt the descriptor was like them using a 4 point Likert scale, and values were summed into a scale (Cronbach's alpha= 0.64). For this study, we defined low self-esteem as the lowest quintile of the distribution.

Predictor variables

Demographics were assessed at baseline, including age, gender, race and socioeconomic status (SES). For race and ethnicity, parents were first asked about their child's ethnicity: "Is s/he Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino?" They were then asked about race and could choose from eight categories: White, Black, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, American Indian/Alaskan Native, more than one race, and other/mixed-race. For analysis purposes, if a parent indicated that their child was Hispanic, the child was categorized as Hispanic regardless of parent response to the question about race. SES was measured using a standardized derived variable that combined parent-reported education and household income (Cronbach's alpha=0.71). We examined a number of baseline variables, in addition to demographics, that have been associated with self-esteem in other studies. These included weight status (classification of BMI percentile), child personality characteristics (sensation seeking and rebelliousness), daily TV use, parenting style (maternal responsiveness and demandingness), school performance, and participation in team sports.

Body mass index was derived from self-report and/or parent-report of height and weight at a 24-month follow-up (70% retention rate), calculated by converting (if appropriate) height from inches to meters and weight from pounds to kilograms and then dividing weight by height squared. Algorithms available from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) were then used to convert measurements to age and gender-specific BMI z-scores, relative to the US population. Quality-assurance checks used by the CDC were applied to the data to eliminate implausible height and weight responses. Similar to the cut-offs used in the Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PedNSS) study, weights that corresponded with the 2000 CDC weight-for-age z-scores that were less than -5 or greater than 5, and BMI scores that corresponded with the 2000 BMI-for-age z-scores that were less than −4 or greater than 5 were deemed biologically implausible. Different from the PedNSS, we deemed heights implausible if they corresponded with the 2000 CDC height-for-age z-scores that were less than −5 or greater than 4 (PedNSS considered z-scores >3 as implausible). As both parent and subjects reported height and weight, we averaged the BMIz unless implausible or missing values were found. If parent values were flagged by the above conditions as biologically implausible, the subject's report was used; if subject values were implausible, the parent's report was used. Correlation between subject and parent report for BMI was 0.83. For the analysis, CDC definitions were followed for classifying weight status by BMI: obesity (95%ile or higher), overweight (85 to 95%ile), normal weight (5 to 85%ile) and underweight (<5%ile). Underweight and healthy weight categories were combined for the purposes of this analysis.

Rebelliousness, sensation seeking, and maternal demandingness and responsiveness were scaled variables that were dichotomized into high and low categories using a median split. TV time was categorized as <1 hours/day, 1 to 2 hours/day, or >=3 hrs/day. Team sports participation was dichotomized as "almost every day to a few times a week" versus "a few times a month or never."

Statistical Analysis

All analyses were completed using STATA statistical software. Chi-square tests were used to compare differences in proportions. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the independent association between predictor variables and self-esteem. The multivariate model included demographics (age, gender, race, SES), weight status, child personality characteristics (sensation seeking and rebelliousness), hours of TV per day, measures of parenting style (maternal responsiveness and demandingness), school performance, and team sports participation. Finally, interactions between weight status and gender, weight status and race, and gender and race were examined. All statistical tests were two-tailed and significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

Sample Characteristics ()

TABLE 1

The study sample is described in .

Factors associated with low self-esteem: Bivariate analysis

lists characteristics associated with low self-esteem in bivariate (chi-squared) analysis. The percent of teens with our definition of low self-esteem was greater in older adolescents and in females. Differences were found by race, with proportionally fewer Black teens having low self-esteem compared with Whites, and Hispanic teens having a higher rate of low self-esteem. Obese teens had particularly high rates of low self-esteem (30%). Teens with greater sensation seeking and rebelliousness had higher rates of low self-esteem, as did those who reported higher TV use. Adolescents whose parents were more responsive and demanding also had lower rates of poor self-esteem, as did those who had better grades in school and regularly participated in team sports.

TABLE 2

Factors associated with low self-esteem: Multivariate analysis

In multivariate analysis (), females were twice as likely to have low self-esteem as males [OR 2.01, (95% CI 1.71-2.36)]. Those of Hispanic race were more likely to have low self-esteem [OR 1.32 (1.05-1.67)] whereas Black adolescents were less likely to have low self-esteem [OR 0.68 (0.50-0.92)] when compared with Whites. Weight status was associated with low self-esteem, with teens in the obese category being twice as likely to have low self-esteem, and those in the overweight category 1.3 times as likely [OR 2.05 (1.63-2.57) and OR 1.26 (1.02-1.56) respectively] than normal weight youth. Low self-esteem was also associated both with higher sensation seeking and with rebelliousness [OR 1.53 (1.29-1.82) and OR 1.48 (1.23-1.79) respectively]. Teens with higher sensation seeking or rebelliousness were 50% more likely to have low self-esteem [OR 1.53 (1.29-1.82) and OR 1.48 (1.23-1.79) respectively]. Importantly, a number of factors were associated with a lower risk for low self-esteem (in addition to Black race, as above). More responsive and demanding parenting [OR 0.53 (0.44-0.63) and OR 0.7 (0.58-0.84) respectively] and either good [OR 0.82 (0.68-0.99)] or excellent [OR 0.74 (0.59-0.92)] school performance decreased the likelihood of low esteem, as did involvement in team sports [OR 0.68 (0.58-0.80)].

TABLE 3

Interaction effects

In main effects analysis, both male gender and Black race were associated with lower risk of low self-esteem. We further explored these associations by examining theoretically important interaction effects including gender, race, and obesity. No statistically significant interactions were found between overweight/obesity and gender or overweight/obesity and race. However, a significant interaction was found between gender and race (p= 0.015), showing that Black female adolescents did not have the higher risk for low self-esteem that was conferred to females in other race/ethnicity categories. illustrates this interaction effect and shows that risk for low self-esteem in Black females was similar to that of White, Black or mixed-race males. For example, the risk of low self-esteem in White, Hispanic and mixed-race females was 2.5 to 3 times higher than for Black females but not significantly different than White, Black or mixed-race males. Interestingly, Hispanic males, like White, Black and mixed-race females, were at higher risk for low self-esteem [OR 1.94 (1.17, 3.24)] when compared to Black females, thus the finding of Hispanic race being associated with low self-esteem was not due to being female.

Table 4

Discussion

This population-based correlational study examines multiple factors associated with low self-esteem, identifying important modifiable variables. This study furthers previous research by utilizing a large national sample and assessing multiple covariates concurrently, allowing for multivariate and subgroup analyses and better control of possible confounding. Our findings confirm that while there are a number of socio-demographic risk factors that are associated with low self-esteem including female gender and Hispanic race, there are also a number of potentially modifiable factors. One such factor is obesity, which is strongly associated with low self-esteem in this study. This highlights the importance of efforts to prevent and manage childhood obesity, as well as counseling strategies to help overweight teens maintain healthy self-esteem. Higher TV viewing is perhaps the most easily modifiable risk factor for low self-esteem, warranting specific attention from parents and clinicians. Our results further demonstrate that adolescents with stronger school performance and participation in team sports have lower risk for poor self-esteem. Within the present study, less than half of teens reported participation in any team sport, highlighting an additional opportunity for school and community sports programs to promote self-esteem and prevent obesity. Finally, adolescents who perceive their parents to be more responsive and better at setting limits also appear to have lower risk for poor self-esteem.

Our findings are consistent with previous literature examining modifiable risk factors for low self-esteem. Wang et al examined obesity, school performance, self-esteem and a number of socio-demographic factors concurrently, and found that obesity and sedentary activity (such as media time) had an independent negative effect on self-esteem while school performance and physical activity were protective. While the link between physical activity and higher self-esteem has been demonstrated previously, this is the first large study to demonstrate lower risk for poor self-esteem among adolescents who participate regularly in team sports. Our findings are also consistent with several national studies demonstrating a positive association between parenting style and self-esteem., , These studies suggest that parents have a great deal of influence on their children's psychological development, even during a time when adolescents move towards a peer-dominated environment. These findings have obvious implications for public health interventions and for health counseling. Pediatricians can encourage healthy self-esteem by counseling parents and teens on the importance of limiting TV time, promoting physical activity/team sports involvement and supporting academic endeavors. Their efforts to support parents in setting limits and to be responsive to their adolescents could also improve adolescents' sense of self-worth.

The observed interaction between race and gender suggests that Black females are protected against low self-esteem. This finding is consistent with previous studies that have demonstrated a self-esteem advantage for Black youth, females in particular., , , , , Higher self-esteem among Black youth has been explained in a mediation analysis that demonstrated that self-esteem was more internally motivated and less contingent on external motivators, such as other's approval, physical appearance and competition with others compared with White adolescents. This suggests that race and gender cannot be examined in isolation when assessing self-esteem. Ethnic identity, as a means through which people of common traits distinguish themselves from others, has also been associated with more stable self-esteem among adolescents and tends to be stronger among Black and Hispanic than White adolescents. , , This may in part explain the differences in self-esteem among racial groups. While ethnic identity was not measured within our study, this may be a modifiable aspect of race that parents, family and community can influence; this warrants further study.

Our finding that low self-esteem is associated with Hispanic race is consistent with previous literature including a meta-analysis of race and self-esteem, with the exception of a recent longitudinal national study by Birndorf et al, that pointed to higher self-esteem among Hispanic females. Our finding of increased risk of low self-esteem among Hispanic males, compared to males of other races, was unexpected and has not been previously reported. The heterogeneity of findings among studies may be explained by temporal trends over time, different classification strategies for race / ethnicity, or different measures of self-esteem. It has also been suggested that ethnic differences in global self-esteem may be explained by variation in response to specific domains of self-esteem; , , this hypothesis could only be explored with a comprehensive measure of the different self-esteem domains.

These findings suggest that interactions between race, gender and self-esteem may be more complex than previously described. Further elucidation of the mechanisms through which race/ethnicity and gender characteristics modify self-esteem will be necessary to guide families, clinicians and public health workers in their efforts to preserve healthy self-esteem levels during adolescence and ensure a successful transition to adulthood.

Limitations

This study has a number of limitations. Reporting bias may exist as all responses were self-reported by teens or parents. In addition, BMI was not measured concurrently with other variables, as this survey item was assessed at the 24 month survey. While it is possible that weight status may have changed during this time period, BMIz has been shown be relatively stable within respective weight categories over time, thus would not be expected to alter these findings. Nevertheless, we recognize that BMI could have changed over time, at least for some. If changes were correlated with baseline self-esteem, this would suggest that self-esteem affects change in BMI. Although we consider this unlikely, this phenomenon would serve to inflate our estimates of the cross-sectional association. More likely, BMI influences contemporaneous measures of self-esteem. If this is the case, changes in BMI over time would cause us to under estimate the cross-sectional correlation between BMI and self-esteem.

Because these data are not longitudinal, causality cannot be determined. Additional studies are needed to determine if risk factors such as obesity and TV viewing lead to low self-esteem, or if perhaps lower self-esteem contributes to the development and persistence of obesity. With such complex relationships, multiple directions of influence can be hypothesized. Finally, for our assessment of self-esteem, we used a limited rather than a comprehensive scale of self-esteem, so our results may not be fully comparable to other measures of self-esteem and may not be as internally valid. However, a lower reliability would be expected to weaken the strength of our findings so it is reassuring that our findings are generally consistent with the literature.

Conclusion

Results of this study identified specific factors that are associated with low self-esteem in adolescents. More importantly, these results increase understanding for how various risk and potentially protective factors for self-esteem differ across race and gender. Several of these factors are modifiable (e.g. obesity, TV time, school performance, team sports participation), and therefore the results of this study could guide public health interventions and counseling for parents in health supervision visits in an attempt to protect adolescents from the deleterious psychological, physical, and social outcomes associated with low self-esteem.

Acknowledgments

This study is funded by a National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism grant ( AA015591)

All investigators had full access to all the data in the study and take responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data analysis.

Funding: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism grant # AA015591B

Appendix

Footnotes

Conflict of interest: The above authors report no conflict of interest

Publisher's Disclaimer: This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service to our customers we are providing this early version of the manuscript. The manuscript will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and review of the resulting proof before it is published in its final citable form. Please note that during the production process errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.

References

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31. Kuczmarski RJ, Ogden CL, Guo SS, Grummer-Strawn LM, Flegal KM, Mei Z, et al. 2000 CDC Growth Charts for the United States: methods and development. Vital Health Stat 11. 2002;(246):1-190. [[ PubMed] Google Scholar]

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Characteristics Associated with Low Self-esteem among U.S. Adolescents

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Low self-esteem in adolescents has been associated with a number of risk and protective factors in previous studies, but results have been mixed. Our objective was to examine characteristics associated with low self-esteem in a large national sample of ...

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8.3% of teens experience depression for a years time

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2014 statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months:

17.3% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were female.

5.7% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were male.

5.7% were 12 years old.

8.7% were 13 years old.

10.7% were 14 years old.

13.0% were 15 years old.

14.1% were 16 years old.

15.1% were 17 years old.

2014 NIMH statistics show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months:

11.5% Hispanic

12.0% White

9.1% Black

10.4% Asian

6.9% American Indian/Alaska Native

12.5% were of 2 or more nationalities

Depression is the most common mental health disorder in the United States among teens and adults.

2.8 million youth age 12-17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2014.

Between 10 to 15 percent of teenagers have some symptoms of teen depression at any one time.

About 5 percent of teens are suffering from major depression at any one time

As many as 8.3 percent of teens suffer depression for at least a year at a time, compared to about 5.3 percent of the general population.

Most teens with depression will suffer from more than one episode. 20 to 40 percent will have more than one episode within two years and 70 percent will have more than one episode before adulthood. Episodes of teen depression generally last about 8 months.

Dysthymia, a type of mild, long-lasting depression, affects about 2 percent of teens, and about the same percentage of teens develop bipolar disorder in their late teenage years. 15 percent of teens with depression eventually develop bipolar disorder.

A small percent of teens also suffer from seasonal depression, usually during the winter months in higher latitudes.

Teen depression can affect a teen regardless of gender, social background, income level, race, or school or other achievements, though teenage girls report suffering from depression more often than teenage boys. Teenage boys are also less likely to seek help or recognize that they suffer from depression, probably due to different social expectations for boys and girls - girls are encouraged to express their feelings while boys are not. Teenage girls' somewhat stronger dependence on social ties, however, can increase the chances of teen depression being triggered by social factors, such as loss of friends. Other risk factors that increase the chances of an episode of teen depression include:

Previous episodes of depression

Experiencing trauma, abuse, or a long-term illness or disability

A family history of depression; between 20 to 50 percent of teens who suffer from depression have a family member with depression or other mental disorders

Other untreated problems; about two thirds of teens with major depression also suffer from another mental disorder, such as dysthymia, addiction to drugs or alcohol, anxiety, or antisocial behaviors

30 percent of teens with depression also develop a substance abuse problem.

Teenagers with depression are likely to have a smaller social circle and take advantage of fewer opportunities for education or careers.

Depressed teens are more likely to have trouble at school and in jobs, and to struggle with relationships.

Teens with untreated depression are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, leading to higher rates of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Teens with depression seem to catch physical illnesses more often than other teens.

Untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide, the third leading cause of death among teenagers.

90 percent of suicide victims suffer from a mental illness, and suffering from depression can make a teenager as much as 12 times more likely to attempt suicide.

Less than 33 percent of teens with depression get help, yet 80 percent of teens with depression can be successfully treated.

Teen Depression Statistics Sources:

1. nimh.nih.gov "Major Depression Among Adolescents" [online]

2. Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General [online]

3. Kidshealth.org from the Nemours Foundation, "Understanding Depression" [online]

4. Center for Mental Health Services, SAMHSA, A Family Guide, Keeping Youth Mentally Healthy and Drug Free, "Depression Hurts" [online]

5. U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, "Depression signs in Teenagers" [online]

6. Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General, "Depression and Suicide in children and adolescents" [online]

7. WebMD.com : Depression in Childhood and Adolescence [online]

8. WebMD/The Cleveland Clinic "Seasonal Depression" [online]

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Teen Depression Statistics & Facts - Teen Help

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2014 statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) show the following numbers for teens that had at least one major depressive episode in the previous 12 months: 17.3% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were female. 5.7% of adolescents that had a major depressive episode in 2014 were male.

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Data from the 2016 National Survey of Children’s Health showed that 3.2% of children ages 3 to 17 had a depression diagnosis. The frequency of depression diagnosis tends to increase as children enter their teen years.

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Your teen years are full of significant changes. Physically, mentally, and socially - your brain, body, and environment are going through a major evolution.

You might feel bogged down from the demands of high school and college assignments piling up. Or you may feel sadness about transitioning to a more independent and unfamiliar life. Throw in a worldwide pandemic, and it's no surprise that uneasy feelings are on the rise, as shown by recent teen depression statistics and research.

These changes can easily become overwhelming. Understandably, you might shut down, become irritable, or lose interest in the activities that previously made you light up.

While these responses are valid and usual, depression is a condition that's much more serious than fleeting teen moodiness.

If negative emotions are keeping keep you from functioning like you usually do, or you've experienced a sense of hopelessness for more than 2 weeks, you might want to consider treatment for depression.

1. It's more common than you might think

Everyone goes through a rough patch or feels listless on occasion. But major depression is a leading cause of disability in the United States, and teens are becoming the most likely group to screen for symptoms of this mental health condition.

Data shows that depression affects high numbers of young people:

Data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health showed that 3.2% of children ages 3 to 17 had a depression diagnosis. The frequency of depression diagnosis tends to increase as children enter their teen years.

Around teens ages 12 to 17 had one major depressive episode in 2017.

According to a 2021 Mental Health America (MHA) report, severe major depression has increased in youth to 9.7%. This is an increase from 9.2% in 2020.

The 2021 MHA report also states that youth ages 11 to 17 were the most likely age group to score in the moderate-to-severe depression categories when screened for mental health conditions.

The symptoms of depression might be a bit different in teens and adults. You can read about the symptoms of depression in teens here.

2. Depression rates are higher in females and gender minority teens

While depression can affect teens of any sex and gender identity, a study published by the JAMA Network found that by 15 years old, females were twice as likely to have experienced episodic depression than males.

When comparing male and female depression rates, depression continues to present at a higher rate in females than males from the teen years into adulthood.

Also, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors leading to depression are highest among adolescents and young adults who identify with a gender minority, such as transgender, genderqueer, and nonbinary.

3. Teens with two or more racial or ethnic identities report the highest rates of depression

Your teen years are often called the "coming-of-age" era for a reason. You're discovering, questioning, and deciding many aspects of your identity, including what your cultural, racial, and ethnic identity means in your life.

This, coupled with societal pressures and prejudices, can reasonably leave you feeling stressed and emotionally shaken up.

Teens ages 12 to 17 years old with more than one racial identity are the most at-risk racial or ethnic group to report a major depressive episode, according to data published by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services in 2017.

American Indian/Alaskan Native teenagers reported the second highest rates of depression at .

4. LGBTQ+ teens are at greater risk for depression

Recent research shows that sexual identity can impact rates of depression among teens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are at a higher risk for depression, suicide, and substance use.

But factors like supportive parents and an accepting atmosphere at school can also decrease the risk of depression in LGBTQ+ adolescents.

5. Most teens with depression are not receiving treatment

Depression is not a weakness, and you should never feel ashamed of a depression diagnosis. While major depression is a widespread mental health condition, it still requires attention and professional treatment.

You may be tempted to ignore your negative feelings and symptoms associated with depression, but a consistent treatment plan is vital for depression management.

Left untreated, depression has a higher chance of recurring throughout your lifetime.

According to the MHA, the majority of adolescents with depression - 60% - did not receive treatment for their major depression from 2017 to 2018. Further, more than two-thirds of adolescents diagnosed with depression did not continue with consistent treatment.

6. COVID has increased depression and uncertainty in teens

As if the normal stressors and changes happening during your teen years weren't enough, for many, the pandemic has upended any remaining sense of normalcy and routine as well.

Quarantine, loss of social interactions, illness, fear of illness, the loss of loved ones, and financial distress are only some of the compounding and life-altering stressors that teens have faced since March 2020.

These changes have had a lasting physical and psychological impact on U.S. society. According to teen depression statistics in the Stress in America 2020 survey, Generation Z teens and young adults ages 13 to 23 years old have reported increased uncertainty and depression symptoms.

For all ages, loneliness and isolation trended as the top reason for uncertainty and mental health conditions during the pandemic.

7. There's no single cause of depression

Depression often brings deeply negative or apathetic feelings, but it's important to remember that these emotions do not reflect any character flaws.

In fact, depression often stems from events outside of your control, such as:

Depression can also accompany or become exacerbated by existing medical conditions. These include:

Of course, depression can also develop without a specific triggering event or preexisting condition, just as it can result from numerous sources. Exploring the causes of your depression with a professional can help you determine the most effective treatment plan.

8. There are many types of depression

If you feel depressed, it does not automatically mean you have a depressive disorder. Depression may be a symptom of another physical or psychological medical condition.

Depression could also be a natural response to a major stressor and does not indicate that you'll need to prepare to live with recurring depression.

Some types of depression include:

No matter what form your depression takes, it's important to work with a medical professional to identify the type of depression you are experiencing and, ultimately, develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Teenage Depression: Facts and Statistics

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Depression is more common in teens than you might think. We look at the facts and statistics.

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One thing that can cause self-esteem issues is unsupportive parents.

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While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them.

Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships. Keep reading to understand self-esteem issues that may come up for your teenager and ways to help your child feel better about themselves and their capabilities.

This can help if you:

suspect your child is suffering from low self-esteem

want to learn how to build your child's self-esteem

would like to identify the causes of your child's low self-esteem.

Why your child's self-esteem is important

Positive self-esteem for teens is important as it allows them to try new things, take healthy risks and solve problems. In turn, their learning and development will be productive and will set them up for a healthy and positive future. A young person with healthy self-esteem is more likely to display positive behavioural characteristics, such as:

acting independent and mature

taking pride in their accomplishments/acheivements

accepting frustration and dealing with it responsibly

trying new things and challenges

helping others when possible

How can low self-esteem affect my child?

When someone has low self-esteem they tend to avoid situations where they think there's risk of failure, embarrassment or making mistakes. These can involve school work, making friends, and trying new activities, which are all important parts of a healthy teenage life.

If the low self-esteem is not identified and treated, then it can lead to problems such as:

relationship troubles or difficulty making friends

- negative moods such as feeling sad, anxious, ashamed or angry

low motivation

poor body image

earlier sexual activity

drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs to feel better

What can cause low self-esteem?

How a person feels about themselves is a result of their experiences and how they deal with situations. The most common causes of low self-esteem in teenagers are:

unsupportive parents, carers or others that play an influential role in their life

friends who are bad influences

stressful life events such as divorce or moving houses

trauma or abuse

poor performance at school or unrealistic goals

mood disorders such as depression

bullying or loneliness

ongoing medical issues

Signs of low self-esteem

A child with low self-esteem will more than likely be having negative thoughts about their worth and value as a person. Some general signs that your child has low self-esteem include:

avoiding new things and not taking up opportunities

feeling unloved and unwanted

blaming others for their own mistakes

- not being able to deal with normal levels of frustration

- negative self-talk and comparisons to others

fear of failure or embarrassment

difficulty making friends

low levels of motivation and interest

can't take compliments and shows mixed feelings of anxiety or stress.

There are things you can do to support your child to have positive self-esteem, but it's also important to remember that teenage self-esteem develops and changes quite frequently overtime. If your child doesn't show signs of positive self-esteem immediately, it doesn't necessarily mean you're doing something wrong!

You can help your child develop positive self-esteem with tips here.

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Self-esteem and teenagers - ReachOut Parents

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
While it can be normal for a teenager to lack confidence at times, people with self-esteem issues normally view themselves differently to how others view them. Low self-esteem can be particularly hard for young people especially when they're doing things like starting high school or work, and forming new friendships and relationships.

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How to Up your self Esteem

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How Can I Improve My Self-Esteem? (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth

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We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.

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https://cdn.mdedge.com/files/s3fs-public/issues/articles/70462_main_10.pdf

37% of adolescents (teens) screened positive for a possible anxiety disorder reported by parents or children.

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Teens struggle with mental helth and need help

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Sign-up for the boxes will be open to youth in Will, Grundy, & Kankakee counties and more information will be posted onto the Extension Unit website soon at www.extension.illinois.edu/gkw .

To read the full study, visit: https://4-h.org/media/new-survey-finds-7-in-10-teens-are-struggling-with-mental-health/ . For more information about Extension/4-H programing (including information on how Extension can help support your school or community group), contact Jamita Brown at jamitab@illinois.edu .

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Teens & Mental Health: Study finds 7 in 10 teens struggle with mental health

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JOLIET, IL - Walk into a youth group, a school classroom, or a sporting event and you will likely see normal, everyday health teens. You can easily count 10 teens who seem reasonably healthy on the outside. But according to a new study, 7 of those teens could struggle with mental health.

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19.4% of teens have low self esteem

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Dat Tan Nguyen 1*,

E. Pamela Wright ²,

Christine Dedding 3†,

Tam Thi Pham ¹ and

Joske Bunders ³

Faculty of Public Health - Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho City, Vietnam

Guelph International Health Consulting, Amsterdam, Netherlands

VU University Athena Institute, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Background: There is a correlation between self-esteem in adolescents and risks and protective factors for their health and welfare. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of low self-esteem and sociodemographic features related to anxiety, depression, educational stress, and suicidal ideation in secondary school students in Vietnam.

Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed for this study with participation of 1,149 students in Cantho City in Vietnam. A structured questionnaire was applied to ask about self-esteem, depression, anxiety, educational stress, and suicidal ideation.

Results: Students with low self-esteem were detected at a prevalence of 19.4%. High educational stress and physical and emotional abuse by parents or other adults in the household were major risk factors correlated to low self-esteem, while a protective factor for low self-esteem was attending supplementary classes. An association among lower self-esteem and increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation was detected.

Conclusions: Self-esteem is associated with anxiety, depression, and academic stress, which significantly affect students' quality of life and links to suicidal ideation. These results therefore suggested the need for a school-based or web-based provision aimed at proactively increasing students' self-esteem and skills for dealing with academic stress.

Introduction

It is well recognised that adolescence is one of the most rapid phases of human development ( 1). It is characterised by a rapid physical, social, and cognitive growth, as well as changes in self-esteem. Self-esteem is reported to have a significant impact on important life outcomes including health and social outcomes during adolescence and adulthood. For example, there is a clear connection between higher self-esteem and positive outcomes, such as occupational success, better social relationships, a sense of well-being, and positive perceptions by peers, academic achievement, and good coping skills ( 2, 3). Low self-esteem is causally related to depression, substance abuse, antisocial behaviour, and suicide ( 4- 6). The literature demonstrates that social functioning, such as acceptance by peers, is lower in children with low self-esteem ( 7).

Extensive research has explored risk and protective factors related to low self-esteem development during adolescence. Reported risk factors include being a girl ( 6, 8, 9), the family's low socioeconomic status ( 10), parents' education level, family eligibility for public assistance, eligibility for free or reduced-cost school meals, the parents' employment status ( 11), and school performance and grades ( 6, 12), as well as obesity ( 13).

Academic achievement is known to be affected by self-esteem, while self-esteem may also influence academic achievement ( 7). High self-esteem is reported as an important predictive factor for students' academic achievement ( 14). Another study found that while high self-esteem resulted in many positive outcomes and benefits, it did not necessarily lead to good school performance ( 15). On the other hand, adolescents with poor academic results did not always have low general self-esteem ( 16).

There is an association between low self-esteem and negative outcomes for young people's behavioural and mental health problems, including health-compromising behaviours such as substance abuse, early sexual activity, and eating problems ( 17). A longitudinal study among a large sample of young New Zealanders found, however, that while low self-esteem significantly predicted adolescent eating and other health-compromising behaviours, it was not related to substance abuse and early sexual activity ( 18). With regard to mental health, a correlation has been detected between low self-esteem and depression ( 19, 20), anxiety ( 10, 21), and adolescents' suicidal ideation and attempts ( 18, 22).

Reports during the past few years indicate that there is a strong relationship between academic pressure and stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation among students in secondary or high school and in young adults ( 23- 25). A study describing perceptions about mental illness in Hue in Vietnam noted that "studying or thinking too much" is a cause of mental health problems ( 26). In Vietnamese culture, the pressure from parents and schools might be expected to have an unintended effect, leading to lower self-esteem and associated outcomes seen elsewhere among high school students. There are as yet no reports of systematic studies on this issue in Vietnam, and there are few reports of descriptive or analytical research into adolescent self-esteem.

This is particularly relevant since we found high levels of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among secondary school students in Vietnam [Nguyen, D. T., Dedding, C., Pham, T. T., Wright, P., & Bunders, J. ( 25)]. This article reports on a study that aimed to determine (1) the prevalence of low self-esteem; (2) the characteristics associated with low self-esteem; and (3) the relationships among self-esteem and anxiety, depression, educational stress, and suicidal ideation in secondary school students. We hypothesised that low self-esteem would be associated with a greater risk of poor mental health status.

Materials and Methods

Study Design and Participants

A cross-sectional study design was used to recruit 1,260 students at three secondary schools in urban and suburban areas in Cantho City in Vietnam. All data were collected during the first academic semester, from September to December 2011. A more detailed description of the sampling and its participants can be found elsewhere ( 25).

Measures

All participants were invited to provide information by self-reporting using a questionnaire. This was done after class or at home anonymously to minimise potential reporting bias and to keep information confidential. The detailed components of the questionnaire have been described elsewhere ( 25).

The 10-item Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale ( 21, 27) was used to assess global self-esteem, with higher scores indicating more positive self-regard. Each item asked for response using a 4-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (strongly agree) to 4 (strongly disagree). The scale is generally reliable, with test-retest correlations value between 0.82 and 0.88 ( 21). The Cronbach α of the scale in the present study was 0.77. The scale ranges from 0 to 30: a score greater than 25 suggests high self-esteem; scores between 15 and 25 are considered to be within normal range, whereas scores less than 15 suggest low self-esteem (Morris Rosenberg).

A more detailed method description on employing the Center for Epidemiology Studies Depression (CES-D), the anxiety scale, and the Educational Stress Scale for Adolescents for this study is available ( 25).

To address the issue of suicidal ideation, additional questions on whether the student had ever seriously considered suicide or made a suicide plan used a 3-point scale (never, sometimes, and often). A yes/no question was also used to identify students who had attempted suicide.

To define risks and protective factors, we explore the variables listed in Table 1, including mother's education, physical and emotional abuse by parents or other adults in the household or school, academic performance in the last semester, educational stress, attendance at a supplementary class, and use of personal tutor. The data collected using the questionnaire is available in the Supplementary Data File.

Table 1 Frequencies and percentages (%) of sociodemographic variables of participants by self-esteem status.

Data Analysis

Demographic data were analysed descriptively to determine basic characteristics of the sample population and presented as means ± standard deviations (SD). The χ ² test was used to assess the significance of differences in the distribution of participants by selected sociodemographic characteristics, risk factors, and outcome variables. Associations between low self-esteem and family characteristics, educational stress, and academic achievement were explored by logistic regression analysis. Univariate independent predictors of low self-esteem with p < 0.10 were entered in a multivariate logistic regression model, and the backward Wald method was applied to study their influence on the presence of low self-esteem. Univariate logistical analyses were also applied to determine the relationships among low self-esteem and anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to measure the correlations among these. All analyses were carried out using a significance level of 5%, and all tests were 2-sided. The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of odds ratios (ORs) were also calculated. All analyses were analysed by using SPSS Inc, Chicago, the United States of America version 16.0.

Results

Demographics

Of the 1,260 students invited to participate, 111 (7.3%) were excluded from analysis because they did not adequately complete the questionnaire; for example, they did not provide answers to five or more items in the CES-D. The final sample comprised 1,149 senior high school students with a mean age of 16.1 years. Participating students were fairly evenly distributed in terms of sex: 36.5% males and 63.5% females ( Table 1). This proportion also reflects the proportion of males and females enrolled in the classes studied. Students' participation from each grade (10-12) did not significantly differ, at around 33% each. Ninety-five percent of students were ethnically Kinh; other ethnic groups included Hoa and Khmer. This sample was in line with the school population in this area.

Prevalence of Low Self-Esteem and Characteristics Associated With Self-Esteem

The mean self-esteem score was 17.56 on a scale of 0 to 30. The scores for boys and girls were similar (17.83 vs. 17.40; t = 1.720; p = 0.086). Based on all scores, nearly a fifth (19.4%) of the respondents reported low self-esteem according to Rosenberg's criteria, with scores below 15 ( Table 1). Based on univariate logistic regression analysis, among six investigated variables, two variables "having a personal tutor" and "attendance at supplementary class" were negatively associated with the risk of low self-esteem, while the other variables were positively correlated to low self-esteem ( Table 2). Students were likely to show lower self-esteem, when their mother's education was at primary level or below, when they were often physically or emotionally abused at home or at school, when they had below average/very poor academic performance in the last semester, or when they reported experiencing high educational stress.

Table 2 Factors associated with low self-esteem: multivariate logistic regression analyses.

In the multivariate regression analysis (with the backward Wald method), not accounting for effect modification, four variables remained correlated to low self-esteem, either in a negative or positive direction. Having a personal tutor and academic performance in the last semester were no longer a significant association, but attending supplementary classes still remained a protective factor for low self-esteem (reduced OR of 43% compared with students not attending) ( Table 2).Study results that were considerably positively associated to low self-esteem were medium and high educational stress (ORs = 2.25 and 4.02, respectively).

Relationships Between Self-Esteem and Anxiety, Depression, and Educational Stress, and Suicidal Ideation

As shown in Table 3, four variables-self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and educational stress-were related to each other. Self-esteem was negatively correlated to anxiety, depression, and educational stress, while educational stress was positively correlated to anxiety and depression.

Table 3 Pearson correlations between self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and educational stress.

One of the purposes of the study was to identify the impact of self-esteem on mental health problems. The results of univariate logistics indicate that low self-esteem contributed significantly to anxiety, depression, and suicide among adolescents. Compared to students who reported normal self-esteem, the students who reported low self-esteem had twice the odds of having anxiety symptoms [20.3% (187/921) vs. 34.2% (76/222)] (OR = 2.04; 95% CI OR = 1.48-2.82, p < 0.001), nearly six times the odds of being at risk of depression (CES-D score of ≥16) (74.0% vs. 33.2%), (OR = 5.72; 95% CI OR = 4.11-7.59), four times the odds of having depressive symptoms (CES-D scores of > 21) (50.7% vs. 19.8%) (OR = 4.16; 95% CI OR = 3.06-5.66), and nearly five times the odds of having depression (CES-D score of > 25) (41.7% vs. 13.0%), (OR = 4.79; 95% CI OR = 3.45 - 6.65). Students with low self-esteem also were significantly more likely to have considered or attempted suicide ( Table 4).

Table 4 Associations between self-esteem and suicidal ideation.

Discussion

We investigated the prevalence of low self-esteem among secondary school students, the characteristics associated with low self-esteem, and the relationships among self-esteem and anxiety, depression, and suicide. Nearly 20% of the students had low self-esteem, with no difference between girls and boys. These results are in line with some previous studies ( 12, 28), but inconsistent with others ( 6, 12). Cultural and social differences in the study populations could explain some of the differences.

Reasons for Having a Higher Prevalence of Low Self-Esteem Among Females

The results of this study cannot provide precise reasons for the higher prevalence of lower self-esteem among females; however, a number of possible causes for the gender differences are worth discussing. Although gender equality has improved in recent years in Vietnam and is clearly legislated, gender issues within the family and society remain a challenge for most Vietnamese, who are strongly influenced by traditional culture and custom ( 29). There is an association between female gender and emotionally unstable personality ( 30, 31). As a result, women are more prone to develop emotionally unstable personality (e.g. borderline personality) ( 32). Thus, females' self-esteem may be more likely to fluctuate, depending on how they themselves or others, especially their parents, evaluate their achievements.

A high prevalence of low self-esteem among the secondary school students should be considered as an important mental health problem not only by parents, school teachers, and principals but also by policy makers in the education and health sectors in Vietnam. In fact, health care related to psychological disorders has not received adequate consideration yet in Vietnam ( 33). Therefore, it is important to take mental health care into account when developing a policy framework to improve general school health services, such as directive no. 23/2006/CT-TTg on having well-equipped and professionally qualified health officers in schools ( 34), and Decision No. 401/2009/QD-TTg, which approved the program "Preventing and combatting diseases in educational establishments belonging to the national education system" ( 35).

Our results confirm the findings of previous studies ( 6, 10, 25, 36), namely, that family characteristics, including mother's low educational level and physical and emotional abuse by parents or other adults in the household, were associated with low levels of self-esteem. In addition, educational characteristics such as the school environment, academic performance, and high educational stress were strongly associated with self-esteem. These findings are consistent with results of other studies, for example, by Pullmann & Allik ( 16), which found that parents have a great deal of influence on their children's psychological development, including on the relationships outside the family environment ( 6, 10). Students who attended one or more supplementary classes appeared to be at lower risk of having poor self-esteem. In Vietnam, these students are usually from a family with a higher socioeconomic status. Attending supplementary class may reduce the stress of workload and academic pressure for those students. It would be useful to confirm this with further studies in the Vietnamese context, but this kind of support is unlikely to be available to families who cannot pay for it.

Low self-esteem in the adolescents in Cantho City was associated with poor academic performance. Aryana ( 14) reported that high self-esteem among preuniversity students was an important factor in predicting high academic achievement. Our finding also highlights that self-esteem plays an important role in predicting academic achievement, although a cross-sectional study design is unable to demonstrate causality; a prospective study to identify causality of the low self-esteem would be appropriate in future research.

With regard to mental health, the results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that self-esteem was negatively correlated to anxiety, depression, and educational stress, while the results of univariate logistic regression illustrated that low self-esteem contributed to a high risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. These results are comparable to others showing that low self-esteem was associated with depression ( 19, 20, 37) and identifying a relationship between self-esteem and anxiety ( 10, 21), as well as a relationship between low self-esteem and suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among adolescents ( 18, 22). Screening for low self-esteem in adolescents is a possible strategy to help identify secondary school students at risk of anxiety, depression, and suicide. In addition, our previous study ( 25) showed an association between mental health problems and academic pressure, resulting from an overloaded curriculum and pressure from teachers and parents to succeed. There is clearly a need to reduce mental health problems among today's secondary school students in Vietnam. The development of a website to provide psychoeducation designed to meet the needs of young Vietnamese and of school-based counselling services for students, possibly by collaborating with volunteers from the Youth Union, the largest sociopolitical Vietnamese youth organization, at local universities, teachers, and parents, will be explored as one of the solutions ( 36). Around 66.3% of young Vietnamese downloaded the mobile health applications for disease prevention ( 38). Nevertheless, one of the challenges to using a digital health intervention is that young Vietnamese with a higher perceived stress level were significantly less likely to use such interventions ( 39).

Study Limitations

One limitation of this study relates to the sample and its generalizability. Although the distribution of girls and boys reflected the true/current situation in the classes selected, the sample was from only three schools in urban and suburban Cantho. Another limitation concerns the study design, which specified collection of data from adolescents by self-reporting using standardised questionnaires. The respondents' personality and identity development are still incomplete, which could result in fluctuating self-perceptions ( 9) and thus unreliable reporting. Also, the exploration of potential causes of low self-esteem as self-reported by subjects was not included in the survey. Another limitation is that the cross-sectional study design does not permit detection of links between covariates; longitudinal studies on this topic are still needed. Finally, the self-esteem, anxiety, and CES-D scales, like other screening instruments, cannot be viewed as diagnostic tools, but only as screening tests to identify members of groups at risk for these conditions. The results tell us how the students perceive their health but are not in themselves evidence of medical concerns. Moreover, there is no assessment of stress coping and stress levels, obesity ( 40), and chronic medical illness (e.g. asthma) ( 41), which may confound and influence anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideations. Finally, in a cross-sectional study, the cause-effect relationship cannot be measured; that requires a longitudinal cohort or a randomised controlled study.

Conclusions

Our research suggested that self-esteem is correlated to anxiety, depression, and academic stress, which significantly affects students' quality of life and is linked to suicidal ideation. The results therefore suggest the need for a school-based or web-based provision of information or services aimed at proactively increasing students' self-esteem and skills for dealing with academic stress.

Ethics Statement

The study was approved by the Scientific and Training Committees of Cantho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Written informed consent for participation was obtained from students' parents or legal guardians before data collection.

Author Contributions

A first draft of the manuscript was prepared by DN under the guidance of CD. All authors contributed to the final manuscript version. DN, JB, and CD jointly generated the research idea and the study design. DN, CD, TP, and EW contributed to the survey tools. DN and TP coordinated the surveys and data collection in the field. DN, TP, CD, and EW carried out data analysis.

Funding

The study has been supported by a scholarship from the "Strengthening teaching and research capacity of preventive medicine staffs to meet the challenges of emerging infections and new environmental hazards to health" Project, collaboration between Hanoi University, NUFFIC, and the Dutch Government.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to all the students who participated in the study. We would also like to thank Hanoi University of Medicine and Cantho University of Medicine and Pharmacy as the Coordinating Board of the project in Vietnam and Professor Pham Van Linh, Rector of Cantho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, for their kind support for this work. Our appreciation also goes to Professor Wim Brandsma and Professor Wim van Brakel for their kind advice on the data analysis.

Supplementary Material

The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00698/full#supplementary-material

References

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Low Self-Esteem and Its Association With Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidal Ideation in Vietnamese Secondary School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

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Background: There is a correlation between self-esteem in adolescents and risks and protective factors for their health and welfare. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of low self-esteem and sociodemographic features related to anxiety, depression, educational stress, and suicidal ideation in secondary school students in Vietnam.Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed for this study with participation of 1,149 students in Cantho City in Vietnam.

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15 percennt of guys are trying to lose weight

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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girls that have a negative view of their body are 4 times more likely to engage in activities that they will later regret with boys

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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75% of girls with low self esteem start to do things like cutting, and other things

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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25% of girls have high self esteem
75% of teen girls have low self esteem

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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People have self defeating ideas to where you give up and try to improve yourself

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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20% of teens will experience depression before adulthood

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The majority of U.S. teens have self-esteem issues that will follow them into adulthood.

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Teen girls have a much lower self esteem

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Girls have much lower self-esteem in their teenage years and this can be partially attributed to ... [+]
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For many people, social media is just a part of their everyday life. You might rely on it for work opportunities or self-promotion. In lockdown, it's been a great way to keep up-to-date with what's going on in the lives of your loved ones or in the news. However, as your home, workplace and school all merged into one it's hard to get away from screens and switch off. A new study has found that girls have much lower self-esteem in their teenage years and this can be partially attributed to social media. While the research found that young people's mental health tended to worsen as they went through their teenage years, the wellbeing of girls was more severely impacted.

The Prince's Trust and the Education Policy Institute used data from the Millennium Cohort Study. Over a two-year period, they looked at the wellbeing of an estimated 5,000 young people who were born around 2000. Researchers spoke to the young people about their overall wellness and mental health when they were 11, 14, and 17.

They found that there was a distinct drop in girl's self-esteem and sense of self between the ages of 11 and 14. At 11, 15% said they felt unhappy about their appearance. However, by the time they were 14, 29% said they weren't happy.

Further research has linked much higher rates of depression in girls to longer time spent on social media and online bullying. A team from University College London used the same data set as the Prince's Trust and the Education Policy Institute and found that three-quarters of girls, aged 14, who suffer from low moods and depression also are unhappy with how they look and get less than seven hours sleep per night. Almost 40% of girls who spend more than five hours a day on social media show symptoms of depression.

Girl's and boy's mental wellness was pretty similar through primary school and it wasn't until 14 that there started to be marked differences. The pandemic had also had a big impact on the mental health and wellness of young people.

According to the mental health charity, Mind 68% of young people have said their mental health got worse during lockdown. "The transition from childhood to adolescence can be turbulent, and the findings of this report underline why addressing and supporting young people's mental health will only become more crucial as the impact of the pandemic unfolds," said Jonathan Townsend, chief executive of The Prince's Trust, "Young people are among the hardest hit by the pandemic, so it is more important than ever that they can access support with their mental health during this critical time in their lives."

The Prince's Trust and the Education Policy Institute concluded that while the transition from childhood to adolescence has a massive impact on your mental health and wellness, it is a particularly stark turning point for girls. Prevention is better than cure and the research suggested that more needs to be done to support young people, especially during the pandemic.

Their recommendations included building on existing mental health content in the Health Education and Relationships and Sex Education curriculum to discuss how conventional beauty standards spread online and address how some young people may be stigmatized for having different body types or gender expression. While it's crucial that young people know where they can get support, the organizations said that ensuring that young people have the language to verbalize how they feel to their friends is also so important.

Follow me on Twitter. Check out my website or some of my other work here.

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Girls Have Much Lower Self-Esteem During Their Teen Years, According To New Study

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For many people, social media is just a part of their everyday life. You might rely on it for work opportunities or self-promotion. In lockdown, it's been a great way to keep up-to-date with what's going on in the lives of your loved ones or in the news.

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As adults, we have enough miles on our tires to realize the importance of having a healthy self-esteem. We know that to succeed in our careers, or any endeavor we care about, we need a positive sense of self-worth that will fuel our efforts. Our self-esteem is essential to how we present ourselves to the world. How we feel about ourselves is expressed through our actions, body language, and attitude in just about every interaction we participate in daily.

But many of us can clearly recall how insecure we felt as teens. We may have felt awkward, gawky, or invisible among our peers. We may have suffered academically because we didn't trust in our own abilities. We may have avoided areas of interest such as sports or music because we felt we didn't measure up to the other teens. Indeed, confident, self-assured adults don't always start out that way!

As parents of teenagers, we may now recognize the same painful signs of low self-esteem in our own kids. It is painful for a parent to know their son or daughter is struggling with feelings of insecurity or lack of confidence in themselves. So, how to help a teenager with low self-esteem?

What Causes Teenage Low Self Esteem?

At first glance it may seem that a teen that suffers from low self-esteem is just moody or looking for attention. They may mope around, avoid social contact, or bury themselves in social media, which can also be symptoms of depression. So what causes a teen to feel so bad about him or herself?

Low self-esteem can be sparked by a number of factors. These might include:

Poor academic performance. This may be due to a learning disability or ADHD, or just underachievement. Whatever the reason, doing poorly in school while watching peers managing their studies satisfactorily can lead to a feeling of not being inferior or less intelligent than others.

Interpersonal struggles. When a teen has difficulty with communication skills they may find they struggle to establish lasting friendships. Being socially awkward during the teen years is fairly common, and can be a source of great distress and loss of confidence.

Environmental factors. Some teens are sensitive about their socioeconomic status or might feel embarrassed by their family situation. Teens tend to want to fit in, so when they feel their family is somehow different from the other kids they may begin to feel like they will never be accepted.

History of neglect or abuse. Teens who were physically or sexually abused in childhood often grow up to have serious mental health issues, including very low self-esteem.

Negative thought patterns. Teens can engage in a self-fulfilling prophecy through negative thinking. If they stew about things or get stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, such as "nobody wants to hang out with me," their dour attitude will lead to exactly that, which then leads to low self-esteem.

Negative body image. Teens become very focused on their physical body image and appearance, which can lead to becoming overly critical of themselves. Teens can be harsh to each other, body shaming or bullying others who don't fit the mold. This can result in low self-esteem.

Some kids may just feel as if they do not fit in with their peers. They may have entirely different interests than their schoolmates and simply can't relate, resulting in few friends. The teen might be dealing with a gender identity issue that makes them feel self-conscious. These can negatively impact a teen's self esteem.

What Are the Signs of Low Self-Esteem in Your Teenager?

Negative self-image manifests itself in a number of different ways. Being able to identify the signs of distress can help the parent know how to help a teenager with low self-esteem. These might include:

Isolating behaviors. Low self-esteem often dovetails with depression, each which may lead to the teen preferring to spend time alone.

Uses body language that signals low self-esteem, such as slouching or walking with the head down.

Excessive bragging. Teens who resort to bragging a lot are usually overcompensating for their own low self-image.

Disordered eating habits. Eating disorders can emerge as a result of low self-esteem, as having control over their food intake is empowering to them. Binge eating can be a sign of using food to soothe emotional distress.

Negative tone and attitude when talking about others. A teen may put others down to help them elevate his or her own sense of self-worth.

Few friends. The teen may have few friends as a result of their negative attitude or excessive bragging.

Negative talk, such as "I am stupid," "I will never pass that test," or "I could never do that." A defeatist attitude.

Irrational feelings of guilt or shame. Teens with low self-esteem may personalize something that is not their fault, leading to feelings of guilt or shame.

Constantly apologizing. Teens with low self-esteem may feel they are inferior or not worthy, leading them to constantly apologize for everything they say or do.

Prefers the fantasy world. Video games are an outlet where the teen can escape to a fantasy world, versus engaging in conversation or social activities where they may feel awkward.

Avoids competition. Low self-esteem may prevent the teen from going out for sports or extracurricular activities.

How Low Self-Esteem Can Negatively Impact a Teen

Parents are right to be concerned by their teen's low self-esteem. It is upsetting to see a child struggling with a negative self-image. Low self-esteem can have a wide range of adverse consequences, negatively impacting a teen's quality of life and limiting their opportunities.

When a teen suffers from low self-image they tend to avoid the situations that may introduce the possibility of failure or ridicule. They lack the confidence to try new things or set more challenging goals for themselves. This limits their exposure to learning new skills or tackling more rigorous subjects in school, which can diminish chances of going to the college of choice later. Low self-esteem can also affect interpersonal relationships, as making new friends may be too intimidating and pose the risk of being rejected.

5 Tips How to Help a Teenager With Low Self-Esteem

When a parent wonders how to help a teenager with low self-esteem they may be very concerned about their child's mental health and want to help them. While it may seem like a daunting task, parents can help their teen overcome low self-esteem through some targeted efforts. Here are 5 helpful tips:

1. Pay attention to the manner in which you speak to your teen, and other family members. Kids soak up parental words and behaviors. If the parent is overly critical it sends the message that the teen is just not good enough, or that he or she is somehow damaged goods. This messaging can foster the teen's own negative self-talk that aligns with the hypercritical parent's. Instead, focus on the teen's positive traits with generous affirmations, and use criticism judiciously.

2. Give the teen some small projects (not routine chores) to tackle around the house. To motivate them, offer to pay the teen for their work upon completion. Completing a task satisfactorily can offer an opportunity to feel productive and a sense of accomplishment. Each finished project helps build self-confidence, which raises self-esteem.

3. Do not expect perfection out of your teen, as that just sets the teen up for failure. Instead, praise the teen for effort made and the accomplishments achieved through those efforts. Compliment them for kind and thoughtful gestures or for any positive character traits, and avoid ridiculing or shaming the teen.

4. Help them shift toward positive self-talk. How we talk to ourselves can have powerful effects, whether negative or positive. If the teen often disparages him or herself or doubts their abilities, show them how to turn that thinking around toward something positive.

5. Encourage the teen to find a fit at school. Guide them toward selecting a club or group that may resonate with their own interests where they will fit in. Many high schools offer a myriad of extracurricular activities, something for everyone.

Mental Health Support for Teens With Low Self-Esteem

If a teen with low self-esteem continues to exhibit the signs regardless of concerted efforts by parents and mentors, it may benefit the teen to obtain some help from a mental health practitioner. The therapist can help identify if there is a mood disorder or an eating disorder that may require attention. Typically, mood disorders in teens are treated through outpatient services using psychotherapy, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy. If depression is diagnosed, the teen may also be prescribed an antidepressant as well.

It these measures do not make any demonstrable difference in the outward signs of low self-esteem, the teen may find a higher level of care at a residential mental health center for teens. These programs provide 24-hour support in a safe, comfortable setting where the teen can focus on making positive changes in thought and behavior patterns. The residential program offers tailored treatment plans, as well as experiential activities that complement the evidence-based therapies. Tutors are also provided to assist the teen with their studies while they are receiving treatment.

BNI Treatment Centers Provides Residential Teen Mental Health Services

BNI Treatment Centers is a Los Angeles-based residential program for teens in distress. BNI Treatment successfully treats teens who struggle with depression and anxiety as a result of a low self-esteem through a multi-modal approach. Each teen is viewed as a unique individual with specific needs and strengths, so the treatment plan will be customized to address those features. For parents wondering how to help a teenager with low self-esteem, BNI Treatment Centers provides the solutions. Call us today at (888) 522-1504

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How to Help a Teenager With Low Self Esteem - BNI Treatment Centers

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As adults, we have enough miles on our tires to realize the importance of having a healthy self-esteem. We know that to succeed in our careers, or any endeavor we care about, we need a positive sense of self-worth that will fuel our efforts. Our self-esteem is essential to how we present ourselves to the world.