Adolescent mental health is an important aspect that influences an individual's well-being and development during adolescence. Various physical, emotional and social changes that occur during this period can make teenagers vulnerable to mental health problems. Let's explore further the definition and types of mental health disorders in adolescents.
Definition of Adolescent Mental Health
Adolescent mental health is a condition where adolescents have well-being that is visible from themselves being able to realize their own potential, having the ability to overcome normal life pressures in various situations in life, being able to work productively and productively, and being able to contribute to their community.
Mental health is influenced by events in life that leave a major impact on a person's personality and behavior. These events may include domestic violence, child abuse, or long-term severe stress. If mental health is disturbed, mental disorders or mental illness arise. Mental disorders can change the way a person handles stress, relates to others, makes choices, and triggers desires to harm themselves
Types of Mental Health Disorders in Adolescents
Several important mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders, often begin during childhood and adolescence. The following are several types of mental health disorders that commonly occur in teenagers:
Depression
This mood disorder is characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of interest, changes in sleep patterns, and changes in body weight. Depression can affect a teenager's daily functioning and social relationships.
Anxiety Disorders
Teenagers may experience excessive anxiety, unreasonable fears, and physical symptoms such as shaking or excessive sweating. Some forms of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, and panic disorder.
Eating Disorders
Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and other eating disorders often appear in adolescence. This disorder is associated with unhealthy eating behavior and obsession with weight and body shape.
Symptoms of Depression in Adolescents
Depression in teenagers is a serious condition that affects mental health and causes feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities. Symptoms can vary, but here are some common symptoms that can appear in teenagers who are depressed:
Appears Sad, Irritable, or Crying
Teenagers with depression often show prolonged feelings of sadness. They may also become more irritable or cry often.
Changes in Appetite or Weight
Depression can affect a teenager's eating patterns. Some may experience a decrease in appetite, while others may experience weight gain.
Decreased Interest in Activities Once Considered Enjoyable
Teenagers who are depressed tend to lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, such as hobbies or meeting with friends.
Difficulty Concentrating
Depression can affect a teenager's ability to concentrate. They may have difficulty understanding lessons at school or completing assignments.
Abusing Alcohol or Drugs
Some teenagers try to overcome depression by abusing certain substances, such as alcohol or drugs.
Sport and Adolescent Mental Health
Exercise has a very important role in helping reduce symptoms of depression in teenagers. Here are some reasons why exercise can help:
- Increased Happy Hormones : When exercising, levels of stress hormones (cortisol) decrease, while happy hormones (serotonin and endorphins) increase. This can help relieve feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Social Interaction : When exercising, you generally interact with other people. This social interaction can help distract your mind from negative feelings and improve your mood.
- Managing Stress : Exercise helps reduce overall stress. By managing stress, symptoms of depression can be reduced.
Types of exercise that are good for overcoming depression in teenagers
Some types of exercise that are good for treating depression in teenagers include:
- Running : Running has a meditative effect on the brain and is similar in action to anti-depressants. Apart from that, running also helps improve your mood and makes it easier to sleep at night.
- Hiking : Taking a walk in nature, especially among trees, can calm the brain and reduce feelings of anxiety. Trees release chemicals that help reduce stress hormones.
- Yoga : The focus on breathing in yoga helps reduce anxiety. Studies show that yoga can be an alternative exercise for treating depression and other mental symptoms.
- Dancing : Dancing is not only fun, but also has positive effects on mental health. You can take Zumba, salsa, or just dance to music at home
Remember that early recognition and appropriate support are critical to treating mental health disorders in adolescents. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health problems, seek help from a mental health professional immediately.
We hope this article helps increase understanding of adolescent mental health and provides useful information for readers. Take care of your mental health and support those around you!
