Mental health is a vital aspect of well-being for people of all ages, but especially for youth and young adults undergoing significant developmental changes and facing various life challenges. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), most mental health conditions present by age 25 or earlier. One in six U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder yearly. Moreover, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 in the U.S., and the rates have increased over the past decade.
What are some of the factors that contribute to the mental health problems of youth and young adults? And what are some of the strategies that can help them cope and thrive? This article will explore these questions by reviewing recent research and reports on this topic.
Factor #1 – Limit Social Media Use
One possible factor is the pervasive use of social media and technology, which can positively and negatively affect mental health. On one hand, social media can provide a platform for self-expression, connection, support, and information. On the other hand, social media can also expose young people to unrealistic expectations, peer pressure, cyberbullying, misinformation, and addictive behaviors. A study by the Institute for Family Studies found that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to report high levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts than those who spend less than an hour a day. Therefore, young people must set healthy boundaries and limits on their screen time and online activities.
Factor #2 – Nurture Spiritual Well-being
Another possible factor is the decline of religion and spirituality among young people, which can affect their sense of meaning, purpose, and belonging. According to a survey by Pew Research Center, the share of Americans who identify as religiously unaffiliated has risen from 17% in 2009 to 26% in 2019, and this trend is especially pronounced among younger generations. However, research has also shown that religion and spirituality can have positive effects on mental health, such as providing hope, coping skills, social support, and moral guidance. A study by Boston University found that young people who attend religious services at least once a week or pray daily are less likely to experience depression or suicidal ideation than those who do not. Therefore, it is important for young people to explore their own beliefs and values and find ways to nurture their spiritual well-being.
Factor #3 – Find and Enjoy Community
A third possible factor that influences the mental health of youth and young adults is their relationship with their family, peers, and community. Research has shown that having supportive and caring relationships can buffer against stress and promote resilience. However, many youth and young adults face challenges such as family conflict, peer pressure, social isolation, discrimination, violence, and trauma that can undermine their mental health. A report by Relevant Magazine found that 42% of young adults have a diagnosed mental health condition, and many of them struggle with loneliness, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. The report highlighted the need for more awareness, compassion, and resources for young adults who are suffering from mental health issues. A study by Religion News Service found that religion and spirituality can aid youth mental health by providing them with a sense of belonging, identity, hope, and coping skills. The study suggested that faith communities can play a role in supporting youth mental health by offering safe spaces, mentoring programs, counseling services, and advocacy efforts.
Factor #4 – Ask for Help When You Need it
The final possible factor that we will address is the lack of adequate mental health care and support for young people who need it. According to NAMI, only half of youth with mental health conditions receive any treatment at all, and many face barriers such as stigma, cost, availability, and quality of services. Moreover, many young people do not know how to recognize the signs of mental illness or how to seek help when they need it. Therefore, it is important for young people to educate themselves about mental health issues and resources and to reach out for help when they are struggling. It is also important for parents, teachers, peers, and professionals to be aware of the warning signs of mental distress and crisis and to provide appropriate support and referrals.
Resources
The mental health of youth and young adults is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention and action from all sectors of society. However, there are also many opportunities for improvement and innovation in this field. For example, some initiatives that aim to promote youth mental health include:
– A Rugged Journey, is a website geared toward young men and is dedicated to connecting young men to God through mentorship and community, helping them find answers to life’s toughest challenges. No judgment—just compassionate advice from people who care.
– Gorgeous2God, is a website for young ladies. It is a safe place to ask your toughest questions and find your deepest purpose!
– The OneTeam Mental Health, is a website which offers information on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and wellness. In addition, sermons from the ministry’s weekly online Saturday (Sabbath) services are available on the site to show how lessons from the Bible can help provide encouragement during challenging times.
These initiatives demonstrate that there is hope and help for young people who are facing mental health challenges. By working together as a community, we can create a culture of compassion, understanding, and support for youth and young adults who deserve to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Brown, E. (2022) The Kids Are Not Alright: 42 percent of young adults have a diagnosed mental health condition, RELEVANT. Available at: https://relevantmagazine.com/life5/wellness/mentalhealth/the-kids-are-not-alright-42-percent-of-young-adults-have-a-diagnosed-mental-health-condition/ (Accessed: March 29, 2023).
Carman, T. (2022) Teens need tech limits and real-life relationships to thrive, Institute for Family Studies. Available at: https://ifstudies.org/blog/teens-need-tech-limits-and-real-life-relationships-to-thrive- (Accessed: March 29, 2023).
Medley, M. (2022) Mental health awareness effort will help young people address challenges, Adventist Review. Available at: https://adventistreview.org/news/mental-health-awareness-effort-will-help-young-people-address-challenges/ (Accessed: March 29, 2023).
Post, K. (2022) Study: Religion and spirituality can aid youth mental health crisis, Religion News Service. Available at: https://religionnews.com/2022/10/19/study-religion-and-spirituality-can-aid-youth-mental-health-crisis/ (Accessed: March 29, 2023).
Waters, E. and Grieshop, A. (2023) Is teen depression epidemic result of too much social media, too little religion?, The Heritage Foundation. Available at: https://www.heritage.org/civil-society/commentary/teen-depression-epidemic-result-too-much-social-media-too-little-religion (Accessed: March 29, 2023).
