Leading organizations such as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recently declared a national state of emergency for child and youth mental health.
While most young people are physically and emotionally healthy, trends in youth suicide, mental health emergency room visits, depression, and anxiety have been on the rise over the past decade — specifically for Generation Z.
Connecting with and supporting Generation Z, youth born between 1997 and 2012, requires an understanding of what they deem important.
Today’s young people have plenty to say about the things that matter to them — and one of their biggest priorities is mental health.
Research shows that the age span of roughly 14 through 24 marks a formative phase of life in which profound cognitive, biological, and psychological changes take place.
Simultaneously, young people must navigate increasing autonomy, forming their identities, developing relationship and life skills, obtaining education and career training, and more.
This is also a vulnerable time for adolescent mental health, as about 75 percent of mental illnesses emerge between ages 10 and 24. This critical period is the time to promote their mental well-being and help them establish a positive track.
A recent Youth Voice survey conducted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston underscores a growing mental health crisis among tweens and teens in our community — mirroring the broader national trends.
The findings are alarming — more than 50 percent of the surveyed teens ages 13 to 17 report feeling anxious, angry or overwhelmed, with more than 75 percent turning to adult mentors for support.
These emotions are compounded by personal pressures and societal issues such as racial justice, women’s rights and criminal justice, all amplified in today’s digital age.
A growing concern before 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic served to further exacerbate mental health challenges related to stress management, peer relationships, bullying, and the detriment of social media.
As demonstrated by the survey, the constant exposure to social issues and the pressure to plan for an uncertain future weigh heavily on their mental health.
To address these mental health concerns, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston trains staff to recognize emotional changes, provide mentor programs, and maintain a safe space for youth to freely express themselves.
Among an array of mental health resources, the organization is partnering with licensed mental health professionals who offer support through small group sessions.
This professional service, along with broader support for life and workforce readiness planning, is crucial in helping teens navigate the complexities of adolescence.
The mental health crisis among teens is not just a personal issue; it’s a societal one. Prioritize mental health. Create environments where youth feel supported.
This will help build a healthier, more resilient Generation Z. Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston is leading the way, but the responsibility lies with all of us. Together, we can help youth navigate these challenges and build a brighter future.