Are You Okay?
It’s time to break the silence on the reality of our youth today. We used to have things like smallpox and HIV/AIDS devastating the world. Now we have epidemics such as depression, anxiety, and stress, which play a big part in our daily lives. Mental illnesses makes things in life harder than they have to be. Things like work, school, and socializing with other people are increasingly hurt by the rise of such sentiment. Also, though many may argue otherwise, mental health is just as important as physical health. It holds tremendous influence over the body.
Mental illnesses has many causes. Based on a study conducted by Mental Health America, one in five teens faces conflicting mental health issues. It can be anything from the environment, to a genetic displacement. It is not a choice or moral failing, and definitely not something to be ashamed of. According to NBC, “teenagers also think about suicide more often, and 5000 young people take their own lives every year in the United States.” This clearly indicates that mental health is a serious issue especially in America. Awareness needs to be raised and action needs to be taken, as many still go without help. We need to take a step towards conquering these feelings and work for ending the taboo around such issues, rather than shutting them away as if they don’t exist.
As teens ourselves, we feel the pressure from not only our academics, but also society itself. It’s as if we are carrying around the burden of stress in every aspect of our life. Feeling lost, purposeless, constantly sad, motivation less, and for some even suicidal, are continuous examples of teenagers and their feelings today. It isn’t just a matter of being unhappy. It’s like always feeling empty and helpless, even when there is help out there. Along with that, our generation has advanced a lot, which has come with a great deal of negativity. With the rise of social media, there has been an increase in bullying and insecurity. The internet has become home to some of the most hate driven suicides, and it’s so sensitive, yet overwhelmingly dangerous. But as we enhance towards the future, according to Psychology Today, “teenagers today suffer from the same amount of anxiety as patients from insane asylums in the 1950s.” Clearly, something must be done about this, sooner than later, or this will have a major effect on our generation and upcoming generations. Overall, mental illness is a real thing. Many find it frightening to discuss, as they worry what others will think if they talk about their experiences. The impact is more than just statistics, it’s in feelings and emotions and everyday life. It’s in our families, with our friends, and in our communities. It’s also equally as important as physical well-being. Which is why we should come to form an escape. Together we can eliminate that stress that is, unfortunately, a part of life. We can do things to ease those feelings while trying to turn them into something positive. If you’re someone who is struggling with similar emotions, just know that you’re not alone. Mental health is a priority, so here are some resources that you can use to get help, or to get further involved in the movement for mental health. If you are struggling please speak to a friend, parent, teacher, or counselor ASAP. You are not alone.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline-1-800-273-8255
http://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
To directly talk to a psychiatrist call 347-916-4944
Again, you can always talk to a friend, counselor, parent, and/or teacher.
Even just starting a conversation can make a great change towards your mental health.
