Youth Day: Mental Health Awareness & Self-Care Strategies
Mental health is critical for overall well-being, yet it often remains overshadowed by physical health in discussions about wellness. With increased awareness in recent years (and especially during and after the Covid-19 pandemic), many have sought or readdressed mental health treatment. Among the youth, mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent, necessitating a deeper understanding and an even greater awareness. Effective self-care strategies that can help mitigate the challenges they face are becoming more and more crucial.
Table of Contents
- The State of Mental Health in the Youth Globally
- The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
- Recognising the Signs of Mental Health Issues
- Self-Care Strategies for Mental Well-Being
- Seeking Professional Help
- The Role of Schools and Communities
- Parental Involvement
- Conclusion
- More Information
The State of Mental Health in the Youth Globally
Recent statistics demonstrate the dire state of the youth’s mental health worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), one in six people aged 10-19 years are affected by mental health conditions. Depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents. The reasons behind these statistics are complex. The pressures of modern life, including academic stress, social media influence and economic uncertainty, significantly impact young people’s mental well-being. The Covid-19 pandemic in itself exacerbated these challenges, leading to increased isolation, anxiety and disruption of daily routines.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Raising awareness about the youth’s mental health is crucial for several reasons:
Early intervention
Awareness often leads to early identification of mental health issues, enabling intervention. Early support can prevent the escalation of problems and improve long-term outcomes.
Reducing stigma
Universally, mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help. Normalising conversations about mental health can reduce the stigma and encourage more young people to seek the support they need.
Education and empowerment
Mental health education provides young people with crucial information about mental health, helping them recognise symptoms in themselves and others. This knowledge empowers them to take proactive steps towards improving or maintaining their mental well-being.
Building resilience
Understanding mental health lends to resilience, providing the youth with the tools to cope with life’s challenges. Resilience is a key factor in maintaining mental well-being.
Recognising the Signs of Mental Health Issues
Recognising the signs of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues is the first step towards seeking help and treatment. Common indicators among the youth include:
Sadness or irritability
Prolonged periods of sadness, irritability or mood swings, possibly pointing towards conditions like clinical depression or signs of anxiety.
Withdrawal from activities
Loss of interest in activities and hobbies they once enjoyed, including socialising with friends and family.
Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
Significant changes in sleep or appetite, such as insomnia, oversleeping, overeating or loss of appetite.
Difficulty concentrating
Trouble focusing on tasks or paying attention in classes or lectures, declining academic performance and/or indecisiveness.
Physical symptoms
Unexplained aches and pains, headaches or digestive issues without a clear physical cause.
Substance abuse
Using alcohol, drugs or other substances as a coping mechanism.
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Any expressions of self-harm or ending their life. These should be taken very seriously and addressed immediately.
Self-Care Strategies for Mental Well-Being
Self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining mental health, but it is often overlooked or not executed. Here are some strategies that young people can incorporate into their daily lives to promote mental (and overall) well-being:
Create a routine
Having a structured daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which is especially important during times of uncertainty. A routine helps manage time effectively, reduces stress and ensures a balanced lifestyle.
Prioritising sleep
Adequate sleep is vital for mental health. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that teenagers get eight to ten hours of sleep per night. Good sleep practices include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed.
Healthy diet
Nutrition plays a significant role in mental well-being. A balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can improve mood and increase energy levels. Limiting or eliminating caffeine and sugar intake is also beneficial.
Physical activity
Regular physical activity has many mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Activities such as walking, running, dancing or playing sports can be enjoyable and effective.
Mindfulness and meditation
Many underestimate the effectiveness of mindfulness practices. Meditation and deep breathing exercises, for example, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Limiting screen time
Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively impact mental health. As such, it’s important to set boundaries around screen use and take regular breaks from digital devices. Engaging in offline activities, such as reading, drawing or spending time outdoors, can be immensely helpful.
Building strong relationships
Positive social connections are vital for mental well-being. Building and maintaining supportive relationships with friends, family and peers can provide a sense of belonging and emotional support. It’s important to communicate openly and seek help when needed.
Seeking Professional Help
If self-care strategies are not enough, seeking professional help is crucial. Mental health professionals, such as counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists, can provide tailored support and interventions. Schools and universities often have mental health services available for students.
The Role of Schools and Communities
Schools and communities play a pivotal role in promoting mental health awareness and supporting young people. Here are some strategies that can be implemented:
Mental health education
Incorporating mental health education into the school curriculum can equip students with knowledge about mental disorders, coping strategies and where to seek help. This education should start early and be age-appropriate.
Training for educators
Teachers and school staff should receive training on recognising and responding to mental health issues. This training enables them to support students effectively and refer them to appropriate resources.
Creating a supportive environment
Schools should foster a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel safe to express their feelings and seek help. Anti-bullying programmes, peer support groups and mental health clubs can contribute to a positive school culture.
Access to resources
Ensuring that students have access to mental health resources, such as counsellors, helplines and online support platforms, is essential. Schools and communities should promote these resources and encourage their use.
Parental Involvement
Parents and guardians are key players in supporting their children’s mental health. Here are some ways they can help:
Open communication
Maintaining open lines of communication is crucial. Parents should encourage their children to talk about their feelings and experiences without fear of judgement. Active listening and empathy are essential components of supportive communication.
Educating themselves
Parents should educate themselves about mental health to better understand the challenges their children may face. Knowledge about symptoms, treatments and resources can help parents provide informed support.
Setting a positive example
Parents can model healthy behaviours and self-care practices. Demonstrating effective stress management, healthy eating and regular physical activity sets a positive example for children to follow.
Monitoring and support
Parents should monitor their children’s mental health and intervene when necessary. If signs of mental disorders arise, seeking professional help promptly is vital. Providing emotional support and reassurance can make a significant difference.
Conclusion
Mental health awareness for the youth is an urgent and essential endeavour. By recognising the signs of mental health issues and implementing effective self-care strategies, young people can navigate the challenges they face with resilience and confidence. Schools, communities and parents all play crucial roles in supporting the mental well-being of young people. Together, we can create an environment where mental health is prioritised, stigma is reduced and every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
More Information
For more information, please contact:
Dr D Mabunda
Discipline: Psychiatrist
Hospital: Maputo Private Hospital
Telephone: +258 84 095 7900
