WARNING: This page contains in-depth information about suicide. If you’re in acute crisis and looking for help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or dial 911.

Poor mental health during adolescence isn’t just a phase. If left ignored, mental health challenges can be all-encompassing, impacting  many areas of a teenager’s life. Teenagers with poor mental health may struggle with school and grades, decision-making, and their overall health.

Mental illness refers to a wide range of conditions that affect a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood. These conditions can disrupt a person's ability to function effectively in their daily lives. Mental illnesses are often characterized by a combination of abnormal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships with others.

There are several types of mental illnesses, each with their own set of symptoms. Some common mental health conditions in teenagers include depression, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These conditions can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can be temporary or long-lasting.

It's important to note that mental illnesses are medical conditions, just like physical illnesses, and they can be diagnosed and treated by healthcare professionals. Treatment options often include therapy, counseling, medication, and support from friends and family. With appropriate treatment and support, teens with mental illnesses can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Adolescent mental health challenges are a prevalent public health issue, with approximately 49.5% of adolescents experiencing a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. Mental health challenges in youth often go hand-in-hand with other health and behavioral risks, including increased risks of substance use, underage drinking, and higher-risk sexual behaviors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

Suicide is becoming increasingly common among youth. Sometimes, comments or thoughts of suicide can start small, like “I wish I could sleep forever.” If left unchecked, suicidal ideation can become significantly more dangerous.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teenagers and young adults between the ages of 10 and 34.

It might be easy to dismiss common mental health symptoms, but parents, peers, and teachers need to take action against the mental health crisis to drive change. Pay attention to these warning signs, and always take what you see seriously.  If someone you know is experiencing signs of anxiety or depression, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider. If someone you know talks about harming themselves or others, call 911. In this situation, it’s better to overreact than underreact.

Fortunately, teenagers are incredibly resilient—and taking the time to connect with your teenager can help them realize they’re not alone. Here’s how to talk to teenagers about mental health challenges and help them make positive changes in their lives.

Talking about mental health can feel like a daunting task, but overcoming stigma is the first step toward starting the conversation. Learn how to raise awareness, educate your children, and overcome mental health challenges with these resources.