Adolescence is a pivotal phase of life characterized by significant emotional, physical, and social development. During this time, young people may be exposed to a variety of environmental stressors that can profoundly impact their mental health. Academic pressures, peer relationships, family dynamics, body image, and social media, to name a few, can all negatively affect a young person’s health and happiness.
At Greenleaf, we are committed to spreading awareness about the rise of mental health concerns in adolescents and increasing access to age-appropriate services. We invite you to join our efforts by taking the time to understand why good mental health is vitally important for adolescent development and what you can do to help improve the lives of young people in need.
The Importance of Good Mental Health in Youths
Healthy adolescent development and good mental health go hand in hand. Having good mental well-being can help young people thrive socially and academically, develop problem-solving skills, and manage emotions in a productive way. When an adolescent has a positive outlook on life, they may be better equipped to bounce back from difficult situations, maintain healthy habits, and enjoy life to its fullest.
How To Help
Early intervention and access to effective services are fundamental to helping young people in need get on a path to healing. Untreated mental health disorders can hinder an adolescent’s personal growth and cause concerns that can continue into adulthood. Without treatment, adolescents who are suffering may find it increasingly difficult to function at school, at home, and in their communities.
Signs that may indicate a need for professional help include:
- Refusal to participate in regular activities
- Poor school performance or declining grades
- Persistent worry or anxiety
- Nightmares
- Hyperactivity
- Continual disobedience
- Aggression or irritability
- Temper tantrums
- Tearfulness or intense sadness
If a young person you know is exhibiting warning signs of mental health concerns, don’t delay finding them the help they need. We encourage you to offer support by connecting them with a qualified mental healthcare provider.
Our Inpatient Services
At Greenleaf, we connect adolescents with the focused care they need to build lifelong resilience. Through transformative programming, young people can learn coping strategies and emotion regulation skills they can carry into adulthood, helping them lay the groundwork for a healthy future. Reach out to our team today to learn more about the developmentally appropriate services we provide or how to help an adolescent in need.
