Teen Mental Health

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what exactly is mental health?

Mental Health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being, which means it affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress in our lives, relate to others, and what choices we make. When we experience good mental health, it doesn’t mean we are always in a good mood, nor does it prevent the stresses of life from coming our way. But, it does help us cope with them so we can continue to engage productively in our everyday lives.

Source: mentalhealthliteracy.org

Understanding Stigma & USing Empathy

Mental illnesses are disorders of brain functioning. They are often misunderstood and ideas about mental illness are only starting to be confirmed by science and research into the brain and how it works.

Even though many people suffer from mental illnesses, you often will only know someone has a mental illness if they tell you directly. Unlike a broken arm or leg, it is often difficult to understand what that person may be experiencing and how you can help. Sometimes their mental illness will make them act in unusual ways, which may make you feel uncomfortable. When we feel uncomfortable we often treat others differently whether we do it consciously or unconsciously. So how can we fight stigma? One way is by using empathy!

Source: mentalhealthliteracy.org

signs of a mental illness & suicide

  • Extreme mood swings

  • Sleeping too much or too little

  • Eating too much or too little

  • Withdrawing or losing interest in regular activities

  • Feeling of hopelessness

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

  • Talking about being a burden to others or feeling trapped

  • Giving away personal items

  • Talking about wanting to die or having no reason to live

Source: nami.org