Mental health is an essential part of your overall well-being. It affects how you think, feel, and act. For teens, maintaining good mental health is crucial for handling the challenges of growing up, including academic pressure, social changes, and the transition to adulthood.
A Tool for Understanding Emotions
The Feelings Wheel can help recognize and communicate feelings. The inner circle is labeled with names of primary feelings (mad, sad, scared, joyful, powerful, and peaceful). The outer rings contain names of secondary feelings related to the primary ones. Use the Feelings Wheel to describe how you're feeling.
Source: The Feelings Wheel was created by Dr. Gloria Willcox
Common Challenges
Teens today face a variety of stressors that can impact their mental health:
- School Pressure: Balancing homework, exams, and extracurricular activities can be overwhelming.
- Social Media: Constantly comparing yourself to others online can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.
- Friendships and Relationships: Navigating friendships and romantic relationships can be complex and sometimes stressful.
- Family Dynamics: Changes at home or conflicts with family members can add to your stress.
Need Help Now?
Call or text 988. If you are struggling, you are not alone. Call 988 for immediate support.
Tips for Maintaining Mental Health
- Stay Active: Physical activity is not only good for your body but also boosts your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.
- Eat Well: A balanced diet can improve your energy levels and help you feel your best. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals.
- Get Enough Sleep: Teens need about 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule to help your body and mind rest.
- Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing your thoughts and emotions with someone you trust, like a friend, parent, or counselor, can help you manage stress and feel supported.
- Stay Connected: Building strong relationships with friends and family can provide you with a support system during tough times.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help you stay calm and focused.
- Limit Screen Time: Too much time on screens can contribute to stress and anxiety. Set boundaries for yourself to ensure you're not overwhelmed by social media or gaming.
When to Seek Help
It's important to recognize when you might need extra support. If you're experiencing any of the following, consider talking to a mental health professional:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends and activities you used to enjoy
- Significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Feelings of extreme anger or irritability
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide