Mental Health Concerns Of Teenage Children In India
Mental health is a pressing concern for teenagers. Teenagers are prone to mental health struggles. Especially during a pandemic these concerns increase and intensify. Research has indicated that mental disorders in adulthood usually have their roots in childhood and adolescence. In India, due lack of awareness, stigma attached to mental health, myths regarding mental disorders, these concerns are not adequately addressed. It also makes it difficult for children to receive the right kind of help as a result of misinformation and stigma.
Based on evidence the growing mental health concerns can be reduced and addressed by targeting the adolescence. However, the well-being of adolescents has often been overlooked.
Parents often deny the mental health concerns of their teens. Behaviours issues are often viewed as common and temporary during one’s teen years. Although that may be true, it is important to distinguish these from mental health problems. It is also important that concerns of teenagers are managed and address appropriately as this is a developmentally significant time in formation of their identity.
During the period of their adolescence, teens go through various changes. They go through physical changes at puberty which can be confusing and stressful for the. This in turn also impacts their mental health and they may feel confused by their emotions and may not know to express this effectively. As their sense of identity is building during this time, they may experience confusion, uncertainty and may feel overwhelmed with understanding themselves. They may also be the victims of bullying during this time. During this period, teens may also start developing romantic interests. This also can be very anxiety provoking for them.
Anxiety, depression, behavioural issues are commonly seen amongst the teenage. This is also a crucial time for the development of their personality. Traits of various personality disorders often start showing up in young adulthood. Body image issues are also common amongst teenagers. This is also a time when they may like to experiment with substance such as alcohol, drugs, smoking.
Although experiencing periods of low mood, mood changes, irritability, reduced motivation are common amongst teenagers, noticing signs that are more prolonged can be helpful. Some signs may include being tearful, feeling hopeless, displaying sudden changes in behaviour, refusing to go to school, withdrawing from friends and their social circle, experiencing anxiety, frequent physical concerns, aggressive and defiant behaviour.
In order to promote psychological well being in teens it may help to show them unconditional positive regard, love and care. Spending quality time with them can also boost their mental health. Taking an interest in their lives, their friends can also help them be more expressive. Communicating openly with them can help them communicate better. Talking to them about their emotions and thoughts is also helpful. Encouraging them to try various things can boost their confidence.
Educating them with kindness and understanding about the various struggles of adolescence can also help.
Physical health is also an important aspect of their mental health. It is important for them at this age to eat right and develop healthy eating habits. Getting adequate and good quality sleep is also important in regulating mood.
