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This article gives you data on how many teenagers are being diagnosed with anxiety along with the factors leading to rising statistics.

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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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Mental health issues in our generation compared to those of previous generations (The Generational Gap in Perspectives on Mental Health)

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Mental health issues in our generation compared to those of previous generations (The Generational Gap in Perspectives on Mental Health)

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The Generational Gap in Perspectives on Mental Health - Child and Family Solutions Center

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By Kara Ettenson, LMSW The generational gap in terms of perspectives on mental health has widened over the years. According to the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, mental illnesses like depression are more stigmatized in older generations (i.e. Generation X) for whom the subject is a complete taboo and attached with various misconceptions. As a result,…

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Gen Z More Likely to Report Mental Health Concerns Than Previous Generations

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Gen Z More Likely to Report Mental Health Concerns Than Previous Generations

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This article provides statistics on the mental health of Gen Z in comparison to other generations, and includes possible stressors that may be causing it.

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Headline issues, from immigration to sexual assault, are causing significant stress among members of Generation Z-those between ages 15 and 21-with mass shootings topping the list of stressful current events, according to the APA report Stress in America: Generation Z released in October.

Specifically, 75 percent of Gen Z members said that mass shootings are a significant source of stress, according to the survey, which was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of APA in July and August 2018 among 3,458 adults and 300 15- to 17-year-olds.

Gen Z members are also more stressed than adults overall about other issues in the news, such as the separation and deportation of immigrant and migrant families (57 percent of Gen Z versus 45 percent of all adults reported the issue is a significant source of stress) and sexual harassment and assault reports (53 percent versus 39 percent).

This generation is also significantly more likely (27 percent) than other generations, including millennials (15 percent) and Gen Xers (13 percent), to report their mental health as fair or poor, the survey found. They are also more likely (37 percent), along with millennials (35 percent), to report they have received treatment or therapy from a mental health professional, compared with 26 percent of Gen Xers, 22 percent of baby boomers and 15 percent of older adults.

"Current events are clearly stressful for everyone in the country, but young people are really feeling the impact of issues in the news, particularly those issues that may feel beyond their control," says Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, APA's chief executive officer. "At the same time, the high percentage of Gen Z reporting fair or poor mental health could be an indicator that they are more aware of and accepting of mental health issues. Their openness to mental health topics represents an opportunity to start discussions about managing their stress, no matter the cause."

More than nine in 10 Gen Z adults (91 percent) said they have experienced at least one physical or emotional symptom because of stress, such as feeling depressed or sad (58 percent) or lacking interest, motivation or energy (55 percent). Only half of all Gen Zs feel like they do enough to manage their stress.

Money and work continued to top the list of significant stressors tracked annually by the Stress in America survey for adults overall. Nearly two-thirds of adults (64 percent) reported money and work each to be a stressor. A new question added this year asking about additional sources of stress revealed that for more than three in 10 Gen Zs, personal debt (33 percent) and housing instability (31 percent) were significant sources of stress, while nearly three in 10 (28 percent) cited hunger or getting enough to eat.

One notable finding was a potential increased tolerance for stress across all generations. The average perceived healthy level of stress increased significantly over the past year, from 3.7 in 2017 to 3.9 in 2018 (on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is "little or no stress" and 10 is "a great deal of stress").

The survey also found that more than six in 10 Americans (62 percent) reported that the political climate is a significant stressor, and more than two-thirds (69 percent) reported that the nation's future causes them stress. This was a significant increase from those who said the same in 2017 (63 percent). Most Americans (61 percent) also disagreed that the country is on a path to being stronger than ever. Because of their concern for the state of the nation, nearly half of Americans (45 percent) said they feel more compelled to volunteer or support causes they value.

Another key finding was that nearly one-quarter (24 percent) of adults identified discrimination as a significant source of stress, the highest percentage since this was first included in the survey in 2015. In 2018, black adults (46 percent) and Hispanic adults (36 percent) reported discrimination as a significant source of stress, compared with 14 percent of white adults.

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Gen Z more likely to report mental health concerns

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More than nine in 10 Gen Z adults said they have experienced at least one physical or emotional symptom because of stress.

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The common mental health disorders that are affecting this generation

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The common mental health disorders that are affecting this generation

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This article gives us a summary on the different mental health disorders that many teens in our generation suffer with.

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Members of Generation Z, which comprises young people born between 1995 and 2010, understand that they are growing up in an age of increased stress and anxiety, and they prioritize finding ways of managing their mental health. According to research conducted by the Pew Research Center, 70% of teens across all genders, races and family-income levels say that anxiety and depression are significant problems among their peers - a higher rate than previous generations.

Generation Z Battles Anxiety and Depression

According to Western Governors University, only 45% of Generation Z individuals say their mental health is good or excellent. That is 11% lower than the next closest generation, millennials - those born between 1981 and 1996. In 2017, the latest year for which federal data are available, the study found that more than one in eight Americans ages 12 to 25 experienced a major depressive episode. Generation Z is the most depressed generation - however, this generation is also the most likely to seek treatment for anxiety and depression through counseling and therapy: 37% of Gen Zers reported that they received help from a psychologist or other mental health expert, which is more than any previous generation.

Still, only half said they felt they did enough to manage their stress. Nearly three-quarters of Gen Zers said they could have used more emotional support over the past year. In recent years, discussion surrounding mental health awareness has become more common, and those who are suffering have received more encouragement to seek help for mental illness.

Why Is Generation Z so depressed?

Gen Z faces chronic stress from many factors impacting their environment, including gun violence, harassment and abuse, the worry of financial instability, politics and even social media. The connection that today's youth have to the world through technology adds pressure to their lives and leaves some grappling with intense feelings of isolation and loneliness. Further, Gen Zers are constantly made aware of tragic world news through the easily accessible information they hold at their fingertips, which takes a toll on their mental health.

Generation Z and Suicide

According to CDC data, a new study by the JAMA Network of medical journals shows that suicide rates for America's youth peaked in 2017, with the suicide rate for Americans of all ages increasing 30% from 2000 to 2016. Contributing to the high youth depression and suicide rates in America are social media use and a greater willingness of families and officials to acknowledge suicide as a cause of death, the JAMA study authors said.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are more likely to attempt suicide, but men are more likely to die from a successful attempt. In 2018 alone, the suicide rate was 3.7 times higher among men than among women. White men also accounted for about 70% of suicides in 2018.

Suicide rates vary across genders, ages and races or ethnicities. Rates for males and females ages 15 to 24 were highest for non-Hispanic American Indians or Alaska Natives, recent CDC data show, reporting 53.7 and 20.5 deaths per 100,000 standard population, respectively. These rates are followed by non-Hispanic white males and females at 27.2 and 6.4, respectively. In past years, suicide rates have been lowest for Blacks, Hispanics and non-Hispanic Asians or Pacific Islanders.

Gen Zers of color, however, have reported stressors surrounding specific issues more than their white peers - for example, personal debt, housing instability and the worry of hunger and food insecurity.

Mental Health of Generation Z People of Color

Within communities of color, there is often a stigma surrounding mental illness and mental health treatment.

Melissa DuPont-Reyes of the Latino Research Institute at the University of Texas at Austin surveyed 667 sixth-graders from an urban school system in Texas. Her results showed that girls and white boys were more knowledgeable about mental illness than boys and teens of color and often displayed more positive attitudes and behaviors toward managing mental health. Her survey revealed that Black boys tend to have more negative attitudes toward mental illness than their white counterparts, and similar patterns were seen for Latino adolescents. Young Black girls demonstrated mental health awareness similar to white girls.

The stigma that communities of color often have toward mental illness affects their coping behaviors. People of color are more likely to suppress, downplay or ignore their emotions altogether, which can contribute to increased incidents of mental health and juvenile justice. There is a sense of shame that is associated with mental illness in these communities, and even when Black and Latino youth decide to seek help, they have difficulty finding a professional that understands their unique cultural backgrounds and concerns.

A lack of mental health services for adolescents in Latino and African American communities elevates their risk of developing depression. Racial and ethnic disparities in health insurance coverage play a role too, as many people of color do not have the resources for the help they need.

COVID-19's Effect on Generation Z's Mental Health

The onset of the coronavirus pandemic has burdened many Gen Zers with additional stressors - as they've had to take on new roles and navigate new challenges. Many teenagers have had to step up and become caregivers for their parents or elderly family members during the pandemic. Older generations are more likely to experience harsher symptoms and complications from infection than younger people. Some teens have even lost parents and family members due to COVID-19.

How Employment Stress During COVID-19 Impacted Gen Z's Mental Health

Generation Z and millennials have had America's highest unemployment rates during the pandemic. About half say that they - or someone else in their household - have lost their job or taken a pay cut since the pandemic began.

The Pew Research Center found that Latinos in the United States were more likely to be affected by pay cuts and job losses than Americans overall. Statistics show that 40% of Latinos took a pay cut compared to 27% of the U.S. adult population; 29% were laid off compared to 20%; and 49% experienced both lay-offs and pay cuts compared to 33%.

In addition, many recent graduates have seen job offers rescinded or put on hold - or they may not have received any at all, CNBC reported. Entering the job market during a pandemic while unemployment rates are still very high may force Generation Z to look for jobs that are outside their envisioned career path.

How Education Stress During COVID-19 Impacted Gen Z's Mental Health

Lastly, the shift from in-person to remote learning in schools has created more stress for Generation Z. Many young people are having a hard time adjusting to learning from home. For some youth, going to school may have been their only way to have guaranteed meals each day. Fallout from the pandemic may have forced them to take on other responsibilities, too, such as caring for their siblings or elderly family members. Having to simultaneously manage both home life and schoolwork can be overwhelming for many young people. For youth from low-income families, learning from home presented the challenge of having to buy office supplies like computers, printers and guaranteed internet access. As unemployment continues to skyrocket, low-income families often struggle to find the money for these extra expenses.

COVID-19 has placed Generation Z in a state of uncertainty about their futures, especially those who have recently graduated from college or will be graduating soon. Learn more about the impacts of COVID-19 and how you can help.

More Resources on Generation Z

Stay up to date with the latest data, reports, and publications on youth and young adults by signing up for one of our newsletter mailing lists today! Continue learning about Generation Z, Generation Alpha, and how America's youth will shape the future of the nation in the resources below.

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Members of Generation Z, which comprises young people born between 1995 and 2010, understand that they are growing up in an age of increased stress and anxiety, and they prioritize finding ways of managing their mental health.

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This article tells us the percentage of students who have 504s in a public school.

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How many kids have learning disabilities (LD) and ADHD? How many get support for these challenges at school? And what do surveys tell us about the stigma faced by people who learn and think differently?

Use these stats to better understand learning disabilities and related challenges.

How common are learning and thinking differences?

1 in 5 children in the U.S. have learning and thinking differences like dyslexia and ADHD. These challenges are caused by variations in how the brain develops and processes information. But it's unrelated to intelligence. It just means kids need strategies and supports to help them thrive.

How many kids have formal support plans at school?

Only a small number of kids who learn and think differently receive accommodations or specialized instruction.

1 in 16 public school students have IEPs for LD or for other health impairments (OHI). (These are two of the 13 disability categories covered under special education law. LD covers kids with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning differences. When kids qualify for special education because of ADHD, they're classified under OHI.)

1 in 42 public school students have 504 plans. The percentage of kids with 504 plans has more than doubled in the past decade. Like IEPs, these plans provide accommodations for kids with disabilities. But unlike IEPs, they don't provide specialized instruction. And schools don't have to classify kids with 504 plans by disability type.

These groups combined don't come anywhere close to 1 in 5. This means millions of kids who learn and think differently aren't being identified by schools as needing support.

How many special education students have LD or ADHD?

More than half (54 percent) of the kids in special education have IEPs for LD or OHI.

2.3 million public school students have IEPs for LD. This is by far the largest disability category covered under special education law. More than one-third (38 percent) of all students with IEPs are classified as having LD.

970,000 public school students have IEPs for OHI. This category has been growing fast. And researchers say two-thirds of the kids in this category have ADHD.

How much of the school day do these kids spend in general education classrooms?

7 out of 10 kids with IEPs for LD spend 80 percent or more of the school day in general education classrooms. The same is true for two-thirds of kids with IEPs for OHI. The trend toward inclusion is good. But many kids don't receive enough support in general education classrooms.

Only 30 percent of general educators feel strongly that they can successfully teach kids with LD. More training and resources are needed to help diverse learners thrive in general education classrooms.

What happens when kids with LD or ADHD don't get the right support?

Kids who learn and think differently can struggle without the right support. This can lead to problems in many areas:

Repeating a grade: Kids who learn and think differently often don't get early or effective interventions. That helps explain why one-third of students with IEPs for LD or OHI have been held back a grade. (Repeating a grade raises the risk of dropping out.)

School discipline: Students with disabilities are more than twice as likely to be suspended as those without disabilities. The loss of instructional time raises the risk of failing. It also raises the risk of kids refusing to go to school.

Dropping out: Students with LD drop out of high school at nearly three times the rate of all students. The top reason students with LD drop out? 57 percent cited disliking school or having poor relationships with teachers or peers.

Justice involvement: Unaddressed learning and thinking differences can lead to trouble with the law. A large study found that half of young adults with LD or OHI had been involved with the justice system.

Not finishing college: Young adults with LD enroll in four-year colleges at half the rate of the general population. Their completion rate for any type of college is 41 percent. (That compares to 52 percent of all young adults.)

Unemployment: Only 46 percent of working-age adults with LD are employed. Compared with adults who do not have LD, adults with these challenges are twice as likely to be jobless.

How does stigma make it harder for kids and adults to get the support they need?

33 percent of classroom teachers and other educators believe these challenges are sometimes just laziness.

43 percent of parents say they wouldn't want others to know if their child had LD.

48 percent of parents believe incorrectly that kids grow out of learning differences.

76 percent of college students with LD say they didn't tell their college that have a disability - and by law, they can't ask for accommodations without disclosing their disability.

81 percent of young adults with LD have not made their employers aware of their disability - and only 5 percent say they get accommodations in the workplace.

For more stats from NCLD's 2017 "State of Learning Disabilities" report, go to ncld.org/StateofLD

People who learn and think differently are just as smart as their peers.

Millions of kids who learn and think differently don't get the support they need in school.

Students with disabilities are more likely to get suspended or drop out of school.

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Key takeaways

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How many kids get special education services for learning disabilities and ADHD? Explore these and other learning disability stats.

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This article gives us examples of how expectations can weigh down on teenagers and indirectly affect them mentally

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One area that impacts mental health is the pressure from others. The pressure to conform to society’s norms vs taking an individual path.

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Is mental illness 'glamorised' by modern media?

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Is mental illness 'glamorised' by modern media?

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Posted by Mack Sanders

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Is mental illness ‘glamorised’ by modern media? - University of Wolverhampton

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Whether it’s on TikTok, Netflix or TV, there has been a shift in how mental health is portrayed in the modern media in recent years.

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This article provides us information on what mental health is and some ways you can cope and get support.

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Many people believe that mental health issues are rare or that they "happen to someone else." In fact, mental illnesses are common and widespread. An estimated 54 million Americans suffer from some form of mental disorder in a given year.

Most families are not prepared to cope with learning their loved one has a mental illness or is experiencing mental distress. It can be physically and emotionally trying for everyone. It can also make us feel vulnerable to the opinions and judgments of others.

What is Mental Illness or a Mental Health Challenge?

A mental illness or mental health challenge is something that causes mild to severe disturbances in thought and/or behavior, resulting in an inability to successfully cope with life's ordinary demands and routines.

There are more than 200 classified forms of mental disturbances. Some of the more common disorders are depression, bipolar disorder, dementia, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Symptoms may include changes in mood, personality, personal habits and/or social withdrawal. There are also less severe but equally challenging issues, particularly in children, which result in behavioral challenges that are rooted how the child mentally processes what is occurring in his or her world.

Mental Illnesses are Physical, Emotional and Psychological

Mental health problems may be related to excessive stress due to a particular situation or series of events. As with cancer, diabetes and heart disease, mental illnesses are often physical as well as emotional and psychological. Mental illnesses may be caused by a reaction to environmental stresses, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these. With proper care and treatment, individuals can learn to manage a mental illness or mental health challenge and in many cases, recover.

How to Cope Day-To-Day

Accepting Your Feelings

Despite the different symptoms and types of mental illnesses or challenges, many families who share similar experiences when a loved one is struggling. You may find yourself denying the warning signs, worrying what other people will think because of the stigma of mental health concerns, or wondering what caused your loved one to have these symptoms.

Accept that these feelings are normal and common among families going through similar situations. Find out all you can about your loved one's condition by reading and talking with mental health professionals. Share what you have learned with others.

Handling Unusual Behavior

The outward signs of a mental health challenge are often behavioral. A person may be extremely quiet or withdrawn, or they may burst into tears, have great anxiety or have outbursts of anger.

Even after counseling or other treatment has started, some individuals with a mental health challenge can exhibit anti-social behaviors. When in public, these behaviors can be disruptive and difficult to accept. The next time you and your family member visit your doctor or mental health professional, discuss these behaviors and develop a strategy for coping.

Your family member's behavior may be as dismaying to them as it is to you. Ask questions, listen with an open mind and be there to support them.

Establishing a Support Network

Whenever possible, seek support from friends and family members. If you feel you cannot discuss your situation with friends or other family members, find a self-help or support group. These groups provide an opportunity for you to talk to other people who are experiencing the same type of situation. They can listen and offer valuable advice.

Seeking Counseling

Therapy can be beneficial for both the individual with mental health challenge and for other family members. A mental health professional can suggest ways to cope and better understand your loved one's symptoms and condition.

When looking for a therapist, be patient and talk to a few professionals so you can choose the person that is right for you and your family. It may take time until you are comfortable, but in the long run you will be glad you sought help.

Taking Time Out

It is common for the person with the mental illness to become the focus of family life. When this happens, other members of the family may feel ignored or resentful. Some may find it difficult to pursue their own interests.

If you are the caregiver, you need some time for yourself. Schedule time away to prevent becoming frustrated or angry. If you schedule time for yourself, it will help you to keep things in perspective and you may have more patience and compassion for coping or helping your loved one. Being physically and emotionally healthy helps you to help others.

Many families who have a loved one with mental health challenge or illness share similar experiences. It is important to remember that there is hope for recovery and that with treatment many people return to a productive and fulfilling life.

We Hear You and We're Here to Help

For more than 80 years, Child Guidance & Family Solutions has been a nationally recognized behavioral health provider for Northeast Ohio children, teens, adults and families. Our team includes more than 150 therapists, psychiatrists and allied health professionals who are committed to the mental health of our community, its families and its children. If you or someone you care about needs help, contact us. We're here to help.

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Many people believe that mental health issues are rare or that they "happen to someone else." In fact, mental illnesses are common and widespread. An estimated 54 million Americans suffer from some form of mental disorder in a given year.

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Provides statistics, charts, articles, etc. on mental health on a global scale.

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Mental health has a significant impact on people’s lives and wellbeing. To support people with mental illnesses, we need better data to understand them.

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Teaches you about mental health. Presents ways you can improve your mental health.

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Building Better Mental Health - HelpGuide.org

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Want to feel better? These self-help strategies and tips will help you boost mood, build resilience, and strengthen your mental health.

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Abolishing the Department of Education leads to less funding for students who have 504s and IEPs minimizing the importance of mental health 

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Abolishing the Department of Education leads to less funding for students who have 504s and IEPs minimizing the importance of mental health 

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Illinois will not be deeply affected by this, but most states will, which is deeply concerning for our future.

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White House preparing executive order to abolish the Department of Education

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The planned order follows years of campaign promises from President Donald Trump to abolish the department — something he cannot do without Congress’ approval.

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Treatment of mental illness in American adolescents varies widely within and across areas

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Treatment of mental illness in American adolescents varies widely within and across areas

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This article shows you data about the most common treatment options for mental health disorders in teens.

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Treatment of mental illness in American adolescents varies widely within and across areas

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This study uses a large national database of insured adolescent children who have an initial insurance claim for a mental illness. Many of these children either fail to receive follow-up care within 3 mo, or receive care that appears to fall short…

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This article talks about the large quanity of people that live their lives undiagnosed and how it affects them

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Facts & Figures About Undiagnosed Mental Disorders - Remedy Psychiatry, Inc

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In this blog, we will go over some of the most prevalent facts and figures about undiagnosed mental disorders and its significance.

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This article explains the challenges that affect mental health. The article also explains how understanding teen mental health statistics helps support teenagers with effective strategies

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Adolescence is one of the most formative periods of our lives. These years are a time of rapid change, growth, and exploration-but they can also come with unique challenges and pressures that can impact mental health. To support our children as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, we must educate ourselves on the current state of teen mental health.

In this blog, we explore the subject of teen mental health statistics, aiming to provide a factual overview and nuanced understanding of the factors that influence the well-being of teenagers. By looking at key statistics and facts, we can better understand the realities teens face today and determine how to best support them.

Beyond the numbers, this article is a reminder of the importance of addressing teen mental health with empathy, understanding, and actionable strategies. Let's stay informed and create a future where teenagers can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.

The Modern Landscape of Teen Mental Health

Teen mental health refers to the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of individuals aged 12 to 18. According to the World Health Organization, "Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community."

Adolescence is a time of heightened vulnerability to mental health challenges, with certain conditions manifesting or intensifying during this period. Teenage mental health is sometimes even trivialized-associating it as "part of growing up," but it shouldn't be. When ignored, mental health challenges can have profound implications on academic performance, social relationships, and overall quality of life.

There are approximately 25.8 million teenagers living in the United States. That's millions of young people who are dealing with a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancements, social media influences, academic pressures, and societal expectations. At its core, understanding teen mental health requires an appreciation for the unique challenges and complexities that adolescents face during this pivotal stage of their lives.

At Compass Health Center, we recognize the importance of early intervention in guiding adolescents as they navigate their way through life. We provide immediate support and resources tailored to the unique needs of teenagers, ensuring that they have the tools to effectively manage their mental health and better cope with life's challenges.

Teen Mental Health Statistics Overview

Here are some recent teenage mental health statistics:

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Teen Mental Health Statistics by Condition

In addition to these teen mental health facts, understanding the prevalence and nuances of specific mental health conditions is essential to providing support and intervention. Each mental health condition carries its own complexities, impacting teenagers in unique ways and shaping their experiences of adolescence.

In this section, we'll take a closer look at statistics associated with various mental health conditions affecting teenagers in 2024, from anxiety to depression to trauma and substance use.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions seen in teenagers, impacting an estimated 31.9% of teens. Females are more likely than males to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders, and the prevalence tends to increase with age. The symptoms of anxiety disorders typically involve feelings of panic or excessive worrying.

Teen Anxiety Statistics:

Depression

Major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S., with statistics revealing that approximately 20% of teenagers will experience a depressive episode by the age of 17. The prevalence of depression is higher among females compared to males.

Untreated, depression can have serious consequences, including trouble performing at school, social withdrawal, and an increased risk of suicide. Early identification and intervention are crucial for addressing depression effectively and promoting positive mental health outcomes for teens.

Teen Depression Statistics:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is characterized by experiencing persistent and uncontrollable thoughts (obsessions) and/or engaging in repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Statistics on teenage mental health indicate that OCD affects approximately 1 in 200 youth in the United States. Drawing from this data, in any medium to large high school, there could be as many as 20 teens with OCD. This disorder can significantly impact their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being.

Through evidence-based treatments for OCD -such as exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy and medication-adolescents can learn to manage their symptoms effectively and lead fulfilling lives.

Teen OCD Statistics:

Related article: How Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) Treats OCD at Compass Health Center

Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Trauma-which can stem from experiences such as abuse, violence, natural disasters, or accidents-can often have long-term effects on mental health. Teen mental health statistics reveal that approximately 1 in 4 teenagers will have experienced a traumatic event by the age of 16. Following exposure to trauma, a portion of teenagers will develop PTSD, which is influenced by a variety of factors. This can include how severe the trauma is, how their parents or caregivers react to the trauma, and how much time has passed since the trauma occurred.

This highlights the need for evidence-based, trauma-informed care. This approach recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on individuals' lives and how they perceive and interact with the world, as well as its influence on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Trauma-informed mental health treatment prioritizes safety, trustworthiness, choice, and collaboration in all aspects of care.

Teen Trauma Statistics:

Suicide and Self-Harm

Studies suggest that an estimated 13% to 17% of adolescents engage in self-harming behaviors, typically starting between the ages of 11 to 15 and peaking between 15 to 17. These behaviors can develop from underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, and can worsen if left unaddressed.

Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals must be aware of the warning signs of suicidal ideation or self-harm to provide timely treatment and support. Typical warning signs may include withdrawing from friends, engaging in reckless behavior, displaying extreme mood swings, and eating or sleeping more or less than usual among others. Reach out to a mental health care professional for more information if you think your teen is displaying signs of suicide or self-harm. If a loved one is in immediate danger or has attempted suicide, do not leave them alone. Stay with them while you call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room.

Teen Suicide Statistics:

Related article: How to Talk About Suicide - A Guide for Clinicians, Family Members, and Loved Ones

Screen Dependence

Screen dependence is characterized by excessive and compulsive use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. It has become a growing concern among children and teenagers in recent years as our world becomes more and more digitized. Studies show that a significant portion of teens are spending several hours each day in front of screens-averaging 7 hours and 22 minutes. During this time, they're often engaging in activities such as social media, gaming, streaming content, and even schoolwork.

That said, extended time spent using a screen can lead to symptoms of problematic screen dependence. This can include decreased academic performance, disrupted sleep patterns, social withdrawal, and an increased risk of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The normalization of screen use in today's society presents challenges for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals in addressing teen screen dependence effectively.

Teen Screen Time Statistics:

Substance Use

Drug and alcohol use among teenagers is a serious and prevalent concern, affecting their health, well-being, and future. Peer influence, family history of substance abuse, and underlying mental health issues are among the risk factors associated with adolescent substance misuse.

Addressing drug and alcohol addiction in adolescents requires a multifaceted approach encompassing prevention, education, early intervention, and access to comprehensive treatment services.

Teen Addiction Statistics:

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Factors Influencing Teen Mental Health

Statistics on teenage mental health reveal the intersectionality of various factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural norms, access to healthcare, and environmental stressors. This highlights the importance of considering diverse identities and experiences in addressing teen mental health disparities.

Social Environment

Family dynamics, peer relationships, school environment, and community support systems influence teen mental health. Positive social connections and supportive relationships can promote resilience, while adverse social experiences such as bullying, social isolation, or family conflict can contribute to mental health issues.

Environmental Stressors

External stressors such as academic pressure, socioeconomic status, exposure to violence or trauma , cultural expectations, and societal norms can impact teen mental health. Environmental factors may exacerbate existing vulnerabilities or trigger the onset of mental health issues.

Teenagers from low-income households are at increased risk of mental health conditions

22% of youth living below the federal poverty level have a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder

15% of teens report experiencing neighborhood violence

Within a 30-day period, 8.7% of teens didn't attend school due to safety concerns over gun violence.

Technology and Social Media

The pervasive influence of digital technology and social media can impact teen mental health, affecting self-image, social comparison, sleep patterns, and interpersonal relationships. Excessive screen time, cyberbullying, and exposure to unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among teenagers.

15.8% of teens report being bullied or harassed online

Rates of cyberbullying are higher among teen girls (22.4%) compared to boys (7.6%)

92% of teens report extended use of screens

Access to Resources

Knowing the facts about teen mental health and how many teenagers are impacted, it's clear that easily accessible support services are essential for fostering a generation of emotionally resilient individuals.

However, not all teens have access to adequate mental health resources. Marginalized groups, including low-income communities, minority populations, and rural communities, often face disproportionate barriers to accessing care. Environments where resources are limited or inaccessible due to factors such as financial constraints, cultural stigma, or geographical isolation, can exacerbate the vulnerabilities teenagers face. Without the care and guidance offered by mental health professionals or support networks, they may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms or suffer in silence, further amplifying the stress on their mental well-being.

To support teenage mental health, we need to prioritize the equitable distribution and accessibility of resources. Online options like Compass Virtual offer a solution for teens where mental health services may be limited or non-existent. They can access specialized, comprehensive programs, including individual, group, and family therapy, psychiatry, and educational resources from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for long commutes or expensive travel.

60% of LGBTQ youth were unable to access mental health care in 2022

White youth are more likely to receive mental health care than youth of color

50% of youth in the child welfare system have mental health disorders

67% to 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system have a diagnosable mental health disorder

700 to 800 Americans search for virtual mental health services each month

Related article: Understanding the Need for Immediate Mental Health Care

Supportive Mental Health Services for Teenagers

Knowing the statistics on teenage mental health provides important insights, but it's just one piece of the puzzle.

Beyond understanding the numbers, parents must find the most effective and appropriate mental health services for their children. As parents, we want to explore all options-from researching available resources and consulting with professionals to understanding individual needs and preferences. It's a holistic process that goes beyond mere awareness, involving proactive engagement and advocacy to ensure children and teens have immediate access to effective and specialized mental health care.

At Compass Health Center, we're committed to providing evidence-based, comprehensive mental health support for teens. As a parent, we understand the stress you can be under when your child is struggling. We're here to answer any questions you may have and provide support along every step of the treatment process-simply contact us to get started.

Further Reading

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Teen Mental Health Facts and Statistics 2024

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Learn more about teen mental health statistics and facts, including the importance of identifying warning signs and early intervention.