Why is mental health important?
Mental Health encompasses our overall well being. It impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It determines how we handle emotions, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health is our tool for coping with the demands of everyday life. It is important beginning in our childhood and for the rest of our lives.
The Mind-Body Connection
Mental health and physical health are closely intertwined.Poor physical health can increase one’s risk of developing mental health problems and poor mental health can increase one’s risk of having poor physical health which can lead to bigger issues. Research shows that the two are directly linked. Poor mental health can affect one’s ability to make healthy decisions and fight off chronic diseases. Mental illness is rarely perceived as a physical illness. But the truth is, mental health has a direct impact on your physical health.
Mental Illness is incredibly common.
Around 1 in 4 youth meet criteria for a lifetime mental disorder.Many mental health issues begin in early to late adolescence. Early identification is essential to an individual being able to work through and cope with the symptoms well.
Most common mental health issues among young people:
- Anxiety disorders
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Eating disorders
- Mood disorders
- Schizophrenia
Common Risk Factors for Mental Illness
What increases a child's chance of mental health issues?If a child is neglected, lives in poverty, has been abused, or has a family member with a mental illness, they’re significantly more likely to develop a mental health issue.
Common risk factors for mental health issues:
- mental illness in the family
- addiction in the family
- little to no support from family members
- history of trauma
- experiencing a learning disorder
- low IQ
- involvement with drugs, alcohol, or tobacco
- inability to control behavior
- developmental delays
- social rejection by peers
- poor academic performance
- low parental involvement
- little to no attachment to parents or caregivers
MENTAL HEALTH DIAGNOSES
Options are available for your child's mental health issues.
If your child is struggling with a mental health issue, you’re not a failure as a parent. Mental health issues are astonishingly common–especially in young people. Seeking out help and guidance is the best course of action.
Here are some options:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Residential Treatment Centers
- Therapeutic Boarding Schools
- Assessment Centers
