Teenage Mental Health Crisis: Adolescence should be a time of curiosity and optimism, full of social friendships. Yet most of today’s teens are feeling depressed, scared, and alone.
“In the last 10 years, there has been a tremendous increase in cases of depression, anxiety and social isolation among adolescents,” says Dr. Neetu Tiwari, MBBS, MD-Psychiatry, Senior Resident, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 14% of adolescents in the age range of 10-19 years are affected by any type of mental disorder, including depression and anxiety.
Studies reveal a powerful link between loneliness and depression, showing that youth who feel lonely are more likely to have depressive symptoms. Research also shows that youth who feel depressed at age 18 continue to struggle well into their 20s.
According to a study by a team at the University of Pittsburgh, from 2012 to 2018, loneliness among teens increased by 20%, making this age group the loneliest in nearly two and a half decades.
Why are more teens suffering from severe anxiety?
Today’s teens face the brunt of what Dr. Tiwari calls a “perfect storm” of emotional, social, and physical challenges. And one of the top causes is chronic loneliness – not just being alone but feeling emotionally isolated despite digital connectedness.
In India, almost two-thirds of youth feel lonely. Studies link too much time spent on social media to low self-esteem. Studies show that teens who often feel lonely are 3.5 times more likely to develop anxiety or depression.
What contributes to the feeling of isolation is constant online comparison, academic pressure, disrupted sleep routines and lack of face-to-face interaction.
How Families Can Help Prevent Depression and Anxiety in Teens
It is at home where the foundation for teens’ mental health is laid. Tiwari emphasizes that parents can help prevent these violent encounters by establishing an emotionally safe and supportive environment.
Parents can:
-Listen without judging or making corrections on the spot.
-Simultaneous supervision and direct use of your digital screen.
-Foster offline hobbies and family time together.
-Be aware of early warning signs, such as withdrawal, mood swings or changes in their sleep.
“Teens who feel trusted, understood, and emotionally supported are more likely to be able to withstand the stressors of adolescence and develop resilience from those experiences. Open discussions about mental health serve to destigmatize emotions,” says Tiwari.
How schools and communities can promote belonging
Schools and communities play an important role in ensuring positive mental health for these adolescents. Dr. Tiwari says supportive school environments that foster a sense of belonging can reduce feelings of isolation.
Programs like peer mentoring, buddy system and inclusive clubs ensure that no student feels invisible. Incorporating social-emotional learning (SEL) into schools helps children learn to name their feelings, calm down, or sit in someone else’s shoes.
Trained school counselors, flexible academic expectations, and wellness breaks are equally essential. “Sleep, play and rest are not luxuries — they are essential for teen health,” said Dr. Tiwari.
What can teens do for their mental health?
While adults need to offer support, teens can take steps toward stronger mental health. Simple habits like:
-Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
-Engaging in daily physical activity
-Individually attending social gatherings from time to time.
Dr. Tiwari also emphasizes positive self-talk – replacing negative conversations (self-criticism or comparison) with positivity, compassion, and gratitude.
“Developing genuine relationships and hobbies and setting digital boundaries can help teens feel grounded and valued.”
Why is asking for help a sign of strength?
Every teen’s feelings—sadness, fear, confusion—are legitimate and shared by many people. Seeking help from a counselor or mental health professional should be seen as an act of courage.
As Dr. Tiwari writes, “Healing begins with empathy. ‘When we begin to substitute peace and understanding for freedom from suffering, the suffering begins to end.’
