Adolescence is a time when teenagers go through different changes in their bodies, attitudes and social networks. During this phase, they might start suffering from mental illness or see the existing ones worsen more. Many things like hormonal changes, family issues, and social problems can all impact mental health in teens. Many problems include feeling upset, getting worried over small things, Having unhealthy eating habits, and taking drugs or alcohol can be a signs of depression and anxiety. Nowadays, Mental health is very common and many teens are suffering from this illness.

When a young person shows any signs of mental illness, it’s necessary to pay close attention to them, keep in check their health and offer full support to the teens. As soon as a mental illness is recognized we should seek our elder’s help right away to prevent more serious problems and to promote their healthy growth.

Major symptoms of mental illness

1. Being annoyed or worried: A teenager showing unpleasant or irritated behaviour may indicate a mental illness. They get confused and lose interest in things they used to enjoy.
2. Extremely concerned: Anxiety-related disorders can make teenagers uncomfortable and stressed about things that other people might not find important which can make it difficult for them to handle their daily lives and cause stress.
3. Abnormal eating habits: Changes in eating habits, such as overeating or undereating may indicate health issues. Such changes need to be properly monitored.
4. Drugs and alcohol consumption: Many teenagers consume these substances to deal with their emotions and try to escape from their reality. This can be dangerous and is an important sign that they need help.

Ways to offer help

1. Communicate openly: We should talk to teens concerning their feelings and mental health, understand their worries and show them that we are always ready to help and support them.
2. Develop healthy habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet and adequate sleep can improve someone’s mood and general well-being.
3. Seek professional help: If you see any symptoms of a mental disorder, you should consult a specialist. Getting advice from a doctor, school consultant or mental health specialist is one way to get such help and guidance.
4. Be understanding: You should provide them with your complete support and treat them with kindness, love and compassion, so they know how much you care and are willing to help them.

A time in Paras’ life: A personal story

This is a story about my school friend Paras. She had always been a bright and active girl, but things began to change as she approached adolescence. She suddenly became quiet, and her academic performance started to drop. She locked herself in her room, stopped going out with her friends, and looked depressed every time.

I got alarmed when I saw changes in Paras like her detachment from everyone and clear distress. She was not eating properly and was concerned about school. I carefully approached her and asked if she was okay. Then she told me about her problem with sharing her feelings. I calmly motivated her to talk to her parents and consult a therapist. Her anxiety was visible on her face and despite that, I offered my support for taking that action. With my support, she finally started to look for help and finally managed her challenges.

She was finally helped by the school counsellor to make her understand about her mental illness. The school counsellor helped Paras realise what she was going through and referred her to a therapist. Paras eventually learnt to manage her anxiety and learned new strategies to deal with her emotions. This event revealed the importance of noticing changes in a loved one or close friend and offering help. Paras could get back on her feet and strengthen her self-confidence with the proper guidance. 

Last thoughts

Often letting your guard down is the best thing one can do. We cannot win every battle alone. Sometimes even the most strong need help. We have to let people into our lives to help us. 

We should get help from our parents, friends, elders and experts if any warning signs of mental illness are observed and diagnosed. Mental health experts like psychologists and doctors can provide the necessary support and therapy to help us and gift our lives back in a way. 

These moments of hardship aren’t easy on anyone, so we can help people get through these tough times so that they lead happier and healthier lives. With the proper guidance and motivation, people can find help and support, just like Paras did.