The Youth Mental Health Crisis & What Parents Can Do About It

While the world continues spinning against the effects of a global pandemic that remains seemingly evasive to our efforts, a second pandemic has been inflicting our youth for much longer. Over the past decade, rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among youth have increased significantly. More recently, between 2019 and 2021, rates of depression and anxiety among children doubled, with 25% of kids reporting depressive symptoms and 20% endorsing anxiety.

According to a new 53-page advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s office, America’s youth are no strangers to mental health challenges prior to the pandemic, but he says, “the COVID-19 pandemic further altered their experiences at home, school, and in the community, and the effect on their mental health has been devastating.”

Like physical health, mental health is malleable and amendable to the nourishment we provide. In light of this, the report Protecting Youth Mental Health focuses on practical strategies that young people and their care-givers (both within and outside of the home) can use to safeguard their well-being.

For Young People:

For starters, it’s important to remember that mental health and its challenges are real, and you are never, ever alone in your struggles. Mental health is shaped by so many factors that are out of our control, but there are some we can shape.

Even at the first signs that you may be struggling, please ask for help. Support is out there in so many different forms. It may be a good friend, trusted adult, or any other relationship that makes you feel safe. It is always good to get a professional opinion from a mental health professional, such as a licensed therapist or psychiatrist; the threshold to do so should be minimal. Young people can advocate for themselves by requesting professional help through their primary care pediatrician, school staff, or their parents.

Another powerful way to make connections is through service and volunteering. During times of isolation, like COVID, service can be an incredible reminder that we bring value to the world and can be a source of support for others.

It goes without saying that the last piece is to take good care of yourself. Nourish your body and mind with healthy food and activities. Be intentional about your use of media (social or news). Be mindful about what you consume and how it makes you feel.

Of course, it’s easier said than done. But it’s worth remembering that you do not have to struggle alone, and you can feel better.

For Parents and Caregivers:

One of the ways to foster healthy mental health in our children is to be the best role model you can by taking care of your own mental and physical health and maintaining healthy relationships. Young people soak in what they see around them when it comes to self-care, self-respect, healthy relationships, and behaviors. Be a good resource for your kids.

Encourage your youth to build healthy social relationships with peers. Provide them with a supportive, stable, predictable home and neighborhood environment.

Do your best to minimize negative influences and behaviors in young people’s lives by having tough conversations early – be it about substances or sexuality.

Most importantly, look out for warning signs of distress and encourage help-seeking. Part of this might mean being more attentive to changes in your child’s behavior, socialization, or media use. Make sure they know they are not being policed, but rather supported by you.

Putting it all together:

Psychologically speaking, the single greatest predictor of our happiness and well-being is the social support and connectedness we foster. That means we all have a role to play in supporting one another, in being kinder and more compassionate, especially when it comes to raising our future leaders. As Dr. Murthy says, “The future wellbeing of our country depends on how we support and invest in the next generation."