Let’s talk about Mental Health

Having a mental illness is not a myth, although some adults believe that it’s impossible for their children or teens to develop a mental illness. Facts provided by the National Institute for Mental Illness indicate that one in five children and teens between the ages 13 and 18 have or will have a serious mental illness. Facts like this highlight that mental health shouldn’t be taken lightly and that in reality many children and teens suffer from mental illnesses.

There is growing evidence that teens are in a mental health crisis. Statistics shows that rates of depression and anxiety among teenagers have increased by 70% over the last 25 years. Statistics even suggest that the number of young people that have turned up to A&E with a psychiatric condition has more than doubled since 2009.

Mental health issues have become a growing problem among students, especially those within higher education. The National Union of Students surveyed 1,200 of higher education students. From this research, 92 % of the respondents identified as having had a feeling of mental distress, which often included feeling down, stressed and demotivated whilst 13% had suicidal thoughts. Universities UK have said that student mental health is a ‘strategic priority’. Universities have gone to the extent in investing money into the well-being of students, especially those with mental health illness in order for them to receive appropriate support through their higher educational journey. Universities have provided schemes such as Counselling Services and the Student Disability Service to cater to the needs of students who struggle with mental health issues.

With celebrities (Kerry Washington, Ryan Reynolds, Zayn Malik) increasingly talking openly about their own mental illnesses, this is creating a greater awareness than there used to be, making it easier for teenagers to recognise their problems. Leaders within the UK have also raised concerns about teenagers and mental health. The Duchess of Cambridge has made young people’s mental health one of her major interests by supporting girls’ especially through their mental health issues. Having an increasing in mental awareness will not only help those who suffer from mental health illnesses but educate those who are unaware about mental health. Educating people about mental health is important as they can help those who suffer from it with the right care. There are many cases (unreported) of university students who suffered in silence with their mental health illness and resulted in suicide.

Teens and children are often reluctant to talk to their parents, and parents are often slow to respond. Some parents, especially parents who originate from Asian or African Backgrounds refuse to believe that mental health illnesses such as anxiety and depression exist. Parents lack of understanding or belief in mental health can even result in teens feeling anxious to tell their parents about their mental illness. Having parental support can also help the teens and children as they will no longer feel like victims. However, there is no point in blaming the parents as mental illness is caused by a mix of factors. Being an upper class, rich teenager who is loved and is successful in academics does not guarantee anything.

Praying for all those with mental health illness, especially those in universities may help them to feel comfort as well as God’s Love.

@1-Peter 5:7 Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

@Philippians-4:6-7 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus