Mental Health Awareness

By Kaia Scholla '27

Adolescents have been reporting poorer and poorer mental health. In a 2023 study, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that for every 10 students, 4 felt persistent sadness or hopelessness. It was also found that 2 out of 10 students had serious thoughts of attempting to take their own life or had already attempted to do so.

Struggling with mental health can affect many different areas of a teenager’s life, especially their school life. Feeling unsupported by adults, disconnected from peers, or

struggling at home are some of the factors that contribute to poor mental health in teens. Mental health is often overlooked and not taken seriously in adolescence. Many dismiss mental health issues as “normal teenage behavior” or just a “part of growing up,” but mental health should be seriously considered at all stages of life. Many teens don’t have access to resources or support and may even feel like they are unable to confide in anyone or don’t have someone to talk to. However, there are a number of free and easily available resources for anyone who feels like they could benefit from talking to someone. 

One of the most commonly known and used resources is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. 988 connects you to trained counselors who are there to support you if you are thinking of suicide, struggling through a mental health crisis, or suffering from addiction. 988 is also available for those who are worried about loved ones who may need support. 988 is available for anyone to call or text. It will put you in contact with a trained professional in just minutes. This number is available 24/7: 988 Lifeline. 

Another resource is 741741, or Crisis Text Line. This is another great resource for those struggling and needing support. This text line is only available for people to message, but it is still a great of a resource. By texting “HOME” to the number, you will be put in contact with a volunteer crisis counselor who will be able to support you. This number is available to anyone who is looking for support or help: Crisis Text Line 

NYC Well is another hotline available for individuals experiencing mental crises and substance abuse. This hotline is available in over 200 languages. Texting the number 1-888-692-9355 will put you in contact with individuals who are prepared to help. Additionally, they provide mental health referrals and dispatch mobile crisis teams. Text WELL to 1-888-692-9355 or call directly to be put in contact with a counselor. 

Photo Courtesy of bcgwashington.org

Sources : nychealthandhospitals.org, cdc.gov

Editing Credits : Cooper Winkler '27, Valentina Cauchi '28 and Ms. Brilliant

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