DISCLAIMER: The story below explores themes related to suicide and mental health struggles for teens.
Adolescence is a transformative period marked by significant biological and experiential changes, all of which prepares individuals for adulthood. While many teens navigate this stage smoothly, others face challenges that can lead to mental health issues that stem from situational difficulties, academic pressures and relational stressors.
Recent data from the CDC highlights a troubling trend: Both teenage boys and girls are reporting increased mental health challenges, including experiences of violence and suicidal thoughts. Although some teens manage this phase well, the number of those who struggle seems to be rising.
The CDC’s 2021 report indicates that 57% of U.S. teen girls and 28% of teen boys felt persistently sad or hopeless during the assessment. Over the past decade, these figures have increased, with girls experiencing a staggering 60% rise since 2011.
Such statistics can be a shocking reality check for parents, guardians and caregivers responsible for supporting teens during this critical time.
“As a licensed psychologist and professor at the UTMB Health Department of Pediatrics, along with my role as mental health director at the Teen Health Center of Galveston, I focus on helping teens harness their strengths, navigate developmental challenges, learn coping strategies, and connect with their support systems—whether that’s parents, teachers, or others,” said Dr. Beth Auslander, licensed psychologist and professor with UTMB Health Department of Pediatrics. “This responsibility is one I take seriously.”
Historically, several factors contribute to mental health struggles during adolescence, including:
- Adverse childhood experiences.
- Family dysfunction or neglect.
- Separation from parents due to divorce or other circumstances.
While these issues have persisted for years, recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic and incidents of mass violence have contributed to a notable increase in mental health challenges, said Auslander, who is also the mental health director of the Teen Health Center of Galveston.
More than feelings of hopelessness, the survey also examined suicidal thoughts, revealing that 30% of girls and 14% of boys had seriously considered suicide in the past year.
Warning signs to watch for
Teens who experience these feelings often show warning signs, such as:
- A fascination with death, including researching and writing about it.
- Changes in sleeping and eating habits.
- Expressions of hopelessness and helplessness.
- Feelings of being a burden to others.
- Increased use of harmful substances.
How parents and guardians can help
If you notice these signs in a teen, consider these intervention tips, with an emphasis on a nonjudgmental approach to avoid making them feel flawed:
1. Reassure them of your support and ask directly if they are having thoughts of dying; avoid beating around the bush.
2. Find opportunities to connect through shared activities, like walking, which can help break their cycle of feeling trapped.
3. Remove access to any means of harm.
4. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms, such as:
- Shifting perspectives.
- Using coping mantras.
- Seeking support from others.
- Exercising.
- Practicing relaxation techniques.
- Problem-solving.
5. Focus discussions on mental illness rather than on the individual.
6. Practice reflective listening.
7. Discuss reasons for living.
8. Connect with community resources and mental health professionals.
A broader perspective and moving forward
Auslander said this guidance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Achieving better mental health for teens is a complex journey that requires collaboration among educators, parents, mental health professionals, health care providers, government agencies, philanthropic organizations and the youth themselves. Healing is fostered by the support systems surrounding them.
In the interim, model healthy behaviors for the young people in your life and protect them from harmful experiences.
“Remember, the majority of adolescence is still a magical, beautiful time filled with defining experiences that give our children the chance to exercise their expanding minds,” Auslander said. “Don’t worry yourself sick about how you will handle these situations. Instead, just jump in feet first and lead with your heart; that’s all our kids want, anyway.”
Resources for teens and mental health:
- Local pediatricians.
- School counselors.
- Gulf Coast Crisis Hotline: Call 866-729-3848
- Suicide and Crisis Hotline: Call or text 988