Did you know that in recent months, suicide and depression rates for teenagers are at an all-time high? In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between April and October 2020, hospital emergency departments saw a rise in the total visits that were from teens for mental health needs. In addition, the number of teens with suicide attempts in the fall of 2020 had doubled since the fall of 2019.
This is the sad but real truth. Teens are having a rough time right now.
With the pandemic going on for over a year now, teens are spending less and less time with their peers, friends, and family. They could also be dealing with the loss of loved ones, missing out on milestone events including graduation, prom, school social engagements, and just having a tough time coping with the ongoing stress and fear of the pandemic. With all of the stress and social isolation, it is no wonder why teens are at risk for depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide.
The good news is that teen depression and suicide can be prevented by showing teens ways they can still communicate with their friends and family in a more organized and creative way.
Take the time to really take advantage of technology! You can use social media like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok to create and try new dance challenges, photography projects, and other activities, based on your personal interests. Then share them with your loved ones.
Make the most out of your days by adding some structure to your day and use a schedule to help keep your mind occupied and busy. The schedule might include time outside, exercise, safe social distanced engagements, zoom parties, or facetime game nights.
Change locations in your home during activities so that you are not always in the same place. For example, utilize the living room during school hours and then your bedroom for social time with friends and family.
Be sure to step away from your computer and get some fresh air as often as possible. In fact, open up your windows and curtains during the day.
Recognize signs of stress including sleeping or eating changes, self-harm, or isolating self more than normal, and then consult a professional Psychotherapist as needed.
Ask for help if you start feeling anxious, sad, fearful, confused, alone, or worried. You are not and should never feel alone during these stressful times.
Parents, also remember to check in on your teens frequently and invite them to talk about how they are feeling and what they may need from you or others during this time. Do not assume that because they are quietly “managing” their school work or occupied on their phone, they are okay. Teenagers are not always the best at expressing themselves or understanding what they need without first being prompted to explore these emotions. So, be sure to show some interest in what they are doing, ask open-ended questions about their day, and encourage them to come out of their room and teach you something new. They will love that AND so will you!
Overall, we here at Honor Your Emotions encourage you to talk about how you are feeling during stressful times, to find healthy ways to cope with stress, and to recognize there are ways to still connect and socialize with your peers during this time of social isolation.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español: 1-888-628-9454; deaf and hard of hearing: dial 711, then 1-800-273-8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
