Mental Health
Important mental health habits—including coping, resilience and good judgment—help adolescents to achieve overall wellbeing and set the stage for positive mental health in adulthood. Although mood swings are common during adolescence, approximately one in five adolescents has a diagnosable mental disorder, such as depression and/or “acting out” conditions that can include extremely defiant behavior. Friends and family can watch for warning signs of mental disorders and urge young people to get help. Effective treatments exist and may involve a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Unfortunately, less than half of adolescents who need mental health services receive them. MORE »
Resources
Identifying Emotional and Behavioral Problems in Children Aged 4–17 Years: United States, 2001–2007
Results from the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Mental Health Findings
Evolving Definitions of Mental Illness and Wellness
Mental Health in the States
Spotlight
Development of the Adolescent Brain
The National Institute of Mental Health explores the latest on brain development and mental health in adolescence.
DID YOU KNOW?
Adolescent annual check-ups should include depression screenings. Parents can learn more about the screening process.
