The rates of adolescent anxiety and depression were at an all-time high in the fall of 2021, leading major medical groups to declare a national emergency of mental health. A report released by the CDC revealed that 42% of US high schoolers experienced persistent hopelessness or sadness, and 22% had contemplated suicide. Experts confirmed that the pandemic had a staggering impact on everyone’s mental health, with adolescents being even more vulnerable. TMS, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a promising new treatment for depression that has recently received FDA clearance for use in adolescents. TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain region connected to mood control, showing a 62% remission in depression symptoms among those who completed a course of treatment.
While TMS is a promising option for adolescents, there are other effective treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and parent-coached exposure therapy (PCET). The issue lies more in accessibility than availability, with 60% of young Americans with severe depression or anxiety not receiving any treatment. A lack of mental health clinicians specializing in teens exacerbates the problem. The rise in adolescent mental health issues predates the pandemic and is influenced by various factors, including social media. Identifying when an adolescent is struggling and intervening is crucial, as is fostering open communication and strong relationships with caring adults in their lives.
A crucial aspect of understanding mental health in adolescents is recognizing that distress is natural, and the concern arises when a person struggles to manage their emotions effectively. Whitening Identifying when an adolescent is struggling to engage in their daily activities, like school, family interactions, and socializing, is vital. Creating a safe space for adolescents to open up and discuss their feelings without judgment is important. Parents can model effective coping strategies and encourage their teens to engage in activities that bring relief. Self-diagnosing and using diagnostic language to describe everyday experiences can lead adolescents to feel more worried and less hopeful about their ability to manage their mental health.
The adults in an adolescent’s life play a crucial role in their mental health, with strong relationships with caring adults being the most powerful force for their well-being. Parents need to be actively involved in recognizing the signs of mental health issues in their adolescents and seeking appropriate help. Treatment options like TMS can significantly improve the psychological health of teenagers who are struggling with anxiety and depression. Creating awareness around mental health issues and reducing stigma is essential, but ensuring that adolescents have access to effective treatments and supportive relationships is equally important for their well-being.
