By Dr Nikita Robins, Bulli Medical Practice
Adolescents are increasingly struggling with poor mental health. The two most frequently cited issues thought to have had a negative impact on youth mental health are:
1) the global pandemic and lockdowns, and
2) the digital age and the availability of smart phones and social media.
If you, or your adolescent child, are struggling with mental health, you are not alone and there are things (and people) that can help.
Helping a teen with mental health issues
- Open communication: check-in with how they're feeling, listen to them without judgment, validate their experience and encourage them to keep talking. Some things can be resolved or eased by sharing and feeling understood. If your teen is not interested in speaking with you, encourage other supporters such as a GP, family friend or school counsellor.
- Healthy coping skills: help them identify their emotions, encourage them to come up with strategies to manage stress or distress. Examples might include: some form of body movement, listening to music, being creative, deep breathing or mindfulness, focusing on positive self-talk and things that are within your control, writing a gratitude journal.
- Supportive home environment: establish healthy daily routines with nutritious food and drink, regular physical activity and good sleep routines. Establish restrictions on screen time and social media use.
- Take care of your own mental health: day-to-day and bigger picture world challenges are tough on everyone, and parenting can bring out our own emotional and psychological difficulties. Look after your own mental health to better equip yourself to help your teenager do the same.
- Seek professional help and use available services: If you are concerned, consult with a GP or mental health professional. Provide your teen with crisis helpline numbers Lifeline: 13 11 14, Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636. (Note: both services also have online chat options).
