In this short episode, licensed counselors Erica Gregory and Mandi Allison discuss the growing mental health crisis among teens, highlighting the alarming rise in suicide rates. They explore how prolonged emotional pain can lead to a desire for escape and how social media intensifies anxiety and feelings of isolation. Learn how to recognize the warning signs and better support the teens in your life.
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Why Is Teen Depression & Suicide Increasing? | JCACounseling Podcast Short
Prolonged Emotional Pain and the Desire to Escape:
The discussion began by addressing how prolonged emotional pain can push teens toward feelings of hopelessness, often leading to a desire for escape. It’s crucial to recognize when a teen is struggling with such intense emotions, as these feelings, if left unaddressed, can contribute to suicidal thoughts. Offering support early and creating a safe space for teens to express themselves can help prevent these emotions from becoming overwhelming.
Why Are Teens More Vulnerable to Depression?
The conversation continued with an exploration of why teens today are more susceptible to depression. Factors like societal pressure, academic stress, and the challenges of adolescence make this group especially vulnerable. With the constant need to meet high expectations and navigate their identity, teens often face emotional struggles that can intensify feelings of isolation and sadness. It’s important for adults to be aware of these pressures and offer timely support to reduce the risk of long-term mental health issues.
Pressure, Lack of Connection, and the Role of Social Media:
The role of social media in exacerbating teen depression was a key focus. The discussion highlighted how social platforms often contribute to anxiety, comparison, and feelings of inadequacy, creating a sense of isolation. Teens may struggle to form genuine connections, leading to increased feelings of loneliness. To counter this, fostering real-world connections and encouraging mindfulness around social media use were suggested as ways to reduce its negative impact on mental health.
This episode provided valuable insights into the mental health struggles teens face today, offering practical advice on how to support them, recognize early warning signs, and address the growing pressures from society and social media.
