Answers
Check out answers to some commonly asked questions about mental health.
In a way this is kind of like asking, “Why should I care about staying hydrated?” We must drink water to function and keep on living, and it’s very similar for our mental health. Not everyone realizes that health is much more than just physical health. When your physical health gets worse, your mental health is likely to follow along. The situation is true in reverse. In fact, researchers have proven that mental health impacts physical health in a big way. Taking care of your mental health and well-being is worth it, because you’re worth it!
Anxiety, depression, and ADHD are all very common in teens and young adults. Eating disorders are also common, along with substance use and addiction – which are not always thought of as mental health issues but are definitely related. Teens are often under a great deal of stress and pressure, and it is important to find helpful, positive coping skills to help manage everything that comes with growing up.
Find out more about common mental health issues and learn the signs:
A panic attack is a very real and common response to anxiety. It can involve sudden feelings of fear, sometimes coming on repeatedly and without warning. Often mistaken for a heart attack, a panic attack can cause some combination of chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, tunnel vision, shortness of breath, upset stomach, etc. Panic attacks can look and feel different for each person, and not all anxiety leads to panic. While often scary, panic attacks are a response to stress and can be managed with the right coping skills.
Hear from ninth-grader Jonas Kolker about his personal experience managing panic attacks and social anxiety in high school. (see video)
Ugh! Relationships can be such a pain. One minute you’re making out after school and everything’s 💯 💯 💯, and then all of a sudden everyone’s whispering and posting about your breakup (how rude!). You may wonder how on earth will you focus on next week’s test while worrying if your ex will find a new prom date before you do. Maybe this sounds familiar, maybe it doesn’t. The point is: getting dumped is one of the most common experiences teens share. Your feelings of worry, sadness, hopelessness, fear, or whatever you experience are very real but only temporary. Things will definitely get better! 😅
Thoughts of suicide are nothing to be ashamed of. Lots of people have these thoughts, and it is perfectly OK to talk about them. In fact, talking about suicidal thoughts can only help. Often, these thoughts begin from feeling hopeless or alone…possibly after a tough breakup, failing a class, experiencing the loss of an important person in your life, or something else highly stressful or traumatic. Take these thoughts seriously, tell someone or ask questions, and try not to judge yourself or anyone else. Supporting, listening, and just being there is a great place to start.
No one is ever alone! Hear from teens who have been there and know what it’s like. (see video)
If you are having suicidal thoughts, free and confidential support is always available:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800-273-8255
Everyone’s different, so what works best for one person may not work at all for someone else. The trick is to find two to three things you find helpful that can be used in most situations. Deep breathing works really well for many people. Some love listening to music, others like drawing or coloring, some prefer writing or journaling, and others like to go for a run or talk it out. When in school you can’t always just walk away or break out your headphones, so it is important to have several options ready to try when you start feeling angry or upset. Whatever helps you feel good is what’s best!
It is great you already are planning to tell someone about what you’re experiencing – way to go! This answer is different for everyone because it depends on who you’d feel the most comfortable sharing with. Maybe start with a close friend or family member that you trust. Consider making an appointment with a counselor at school. If you’re still not sure, you can also get anonymous support for free by phone, text, or chat.
TEEN LINE: Call (800) 852-8336 from 9pm – 1am Eastern or text "TEEN" to 839863 from 9pm – 12am Eastern. www.teenlineonline.org
Yes! There is no “one size fits all” mental health treatment that works best for everybody, and you have lots of choices when it comes to getting help. Talk therapy works great and is now more flexible than ever – with options to talk in person, on a smartphone, or even by texting. It’s important to find a therapist you feel comfortable sharing with, someone who really gets you. It feels nice to have a supporter who always listens, no matter what!
Mental health is often misunderstood, with not much education in most schools and households to help teach about feelings and how to talk about them. Sometimes it can be uncomfortable to express what you are thinking or feeling, and not knowing how someone else will respond can seem scary. But mental health is a normal part of life, and talking with others is the best thing you can do to help yourself or someone else. The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Give it a try…what’s on your mind?
Knowledge is Power
Looking for more answers? Check out other NAMI Teen topics and become an expert on your mental health: