CRISIS

An overview of the ongoing teen mental health crisis.

Even before Covid-19, concern about teens’ mental health was building, as various negative indicators rose. Since then, adverse data points have continued to mount. Balancing anecdotal and statistical evidence and recounting stories of a diverse range of teen sufferers, Currie-McGhee lays out the problems, discusses possible causes, identifies the most at-risk teens, and suggests some solutions. Citing abundant recent research, she outlines the symptoms of each condition and describes some effects of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm, stressing the obstacles posed by stigma, the necessity of self-awareness, and the importance of seeking therapeutic, familial, and other support. Contributors to poor mental health discussed here include external social factors (like lockdown isolation, social media, racism, homophobia, and family conflict) and internal genetic and psychological factors. Among the remedial steps proposed are increased access to counseling, emergency hotlines, and proactive school programs; promoting more inclusive communities to protect marginalized youths; better social media practices; and peer education and involvement. Effective sidebars highlight key points, and the stock color photos feature racially diverse young people. This accessible, user-friendly work offers concise, informative, and approachable coverage for young people, parents, and educators on a topic that is just as important to well-being as physical health.

A clear overview of teen mental health challenges along with some practical steps to address them.