Empowering Teens
World Teen Mental Wellness Day, observed annually on March 2nd, is dedicated to raising awareness and providing education about the mental health challenges faced by teenagers and young adults worldwide. Now, more than ever, mental health challenges are on the rise, making this cause all the more significant. The goal is to normalize and encourage discussions surrounding teen mental health while promoting resources and support for those navigating the complexities of modern life.
The inception of World Teen Mental Wellness Day was driven by a growing recognition of the unique mental health struggles that teenagers encounter. In 2020, the global retail brand Hollister Co. took the initiative to create a dedicated day focused solely on teen mental wellness. The first of its kind, the day aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues among adolescents and highlight the prevalence of teenage mental health conditions to encourage proactive measures in addressing these challenges.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in six teenagers will experience a mental health condition. Additionally, 50% of all lifetime mental health conditions begin before the age of 14. This is why focusing on teen mental health is so important as early prevention is key. While there are numerous reasons, academic pressure, social media influence, and personal struggles are top contributors to stress, anxiety, and depression among teens. World Teen Mental Wellness Day serves as a platform to educate communities, provide resources, and foster environments where teens feel comfortable seeking help and realize they’re not alone.
From educational workshops and seminars to wellness rooms and peer support groups, many individuals, schools, organizations, and communities have put together various activities to support World Teen Mental Wellness Day. You can also promote awareness through themed cycling or yoga classes. Exercise has been proven to improve moods and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Art therapy workshops are another great idea – there is a wide variety of ways to get involved.
Utilizing social media platforms to spread awareness, whether it be informative content, personal testimony, or sharing resources is a great way to reach a broader audience and engage the online community. It can also be as simple as striking up a conversation – especially for parents and guardians who want to provide a safe space for their kids to share their feelings and concerns.
If you worry that you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, here are some common signs in teenagers to look for:
- Excessive worrying or fear
- Feeling excessively sad or low
- Sleeping too much or not enough
- Change in energy level
- Mood swings
- Emotional outbursts
- Avoiding friends and social activities
- Decreased interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite
- Suicidal ideation or talking about death frequently
- New onset of guilt or shame
- Changes in concentration
- Impaired performance at school
- Inability to perceive changes in one’s own feelings, behavior, or personality
- Hyperactive behavior
- Frequent nightmares
- Frequent disobedience or aggression
World Teen Mental Wellness Day is focused on making sure teenagers have access to professional counseling, and reducing the stigma of shame that tends to come along with it, so that they have the tools they need to manage stress and maintain mental clarity. This day is a reminder that collective efforts are essential in addressing the mental challenges faced by adolescents today.
Remember that you are loved and important. If you or someone you care about is struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, please call us at 800-604-2117. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will answer all your questions and get you on your way to a better tomorrow.
If you need immediate help and it has become life-threatening, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or call 911.
