The
global coronavirus pandemic has triggered a rise in mental health issues across
the country, especially among teens. In a new survey commissioned by the
National 4-H Council and conducted by the Harris Poll, researchers found seven
in 10 teens are dealing with depression, anxiety or increased stress, or a
combination of the three.
But what’s most
concerning, researchers say, is the number of teens who report they need to
suffer in silence. Sixty-seven percent of those surveyed said they feel more
pressure to keep their feelings to themselves. Similarly, 67% pretend to feel
fine when they’re really not because they don’t want to worry anyone. Over half
of respondents indicated increased feelings of loneliness.
What are some possible
reasons teens are feeling lonely? And why would a teen want to spend more time
alone? Like adults, they’ve been affected by the pandemic as social interaction
has been so markedly restricted. Their activities have been canceled, and video
chatting is not the same as getting together in person. Given that no one knows
when it will truly be possible to resume normal interactions, it’s harder to
cope than if there were a known end point.
READ MORE: How mindfulness can help your stressed teen
Worse, still, there
has been pressure from adults these recent months to be “fine”. It hasn’t been
unusual to hear someone who is expressing distress about missing their friends,
missing graduation, worrying about college applications, etc. to be met with a
response along the lines of “Stop complaining. People throughout history have
had it much worse than you.
Remember, distress
isn’t a zero-sum game. Just because someone else has more, doesn’t mean that the
person who is sad about missing graduation shouldn’t be sad.
What are the
short-term effects of poor teen mental health if not addressed? How about
disrupted sleep and appetite which can lead to less healthy food choices,
trouble concentrating, and physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches and
generally feeling unwell.
What are the long-term
effects of poor teen mental health if not addressed?
Some experiencing
prolonged excess distress might develop mental health disorders such as
depression or an anxiety disorder that could have a significant impact on
functioning. Those with untreated depression or anxiety (again, now talking
about disorders not just emotions) tend to struggle to complete college and
maintain employment. Relationships are likely to be more challenging to develop
and maintain in presence of a depressive or anxiety disorder. Some may develop
substance use disorders.
The main takeaway from
this survey is that teens are reporting a high level of distress and would like
to be listened to. They’re feeling that their emotions are not taken seriously.
Parents and teachers need to truly listen and not just jump in with a “fix it”
or “stop it” approach that invalidates their feelings. Our society tends to
emphasize individualism and a “fix it”/pull yourself up by your bootstraps
approach rather than letting people know it is OK to need to lean on others and
that it is OK to not be OK at times particularly when circumstances are
challenging.