Mental health should be a part of all young people’s lives. As we grow older and become teenagers, we experience new pressures and responsibilities in our lives. Many things can affect our mental health, such as:
- Problems or difficulties at school
- Bullying at school or on the internet
- Break ups and arguments with close friends
- Problems at home with siblings , parents, or other family members
Similar to adults, children can also find it difficult to control their moods or talk about how they feel. Children may sometimes act out or behave badly. Moods range from very high (feeling extremely happy) to very low (feeling extremely sad). If a child’s moods do not last too long or fluctuate between high and low often and suddenly, and they seem okay with everyday life, there's probably nothing to worry about. Sometimes, mental health problems may appear. Children and young people are very sensitive to what goes on around them. Without the right support, they can become stressed, anxious, or depressed.
Young people who have good relationships with family and friends usually have strong coping skills. Parents and guardians need to take time to regularly talk with their children about what's going on in their lives and what is important to them. Offer youth the support they need to cope with the challenges in their lives.
Kids Help Phone | 1-800-668-6868 or text ‘TALK’ to 686868
Kids Help Phone’s professional counsellors continue to be available by phone at 1-800-668-6868, by chat through the Kids Help Phone website, or via the Always There App.
Click here for Crisis Text Line powered by Kids Help Phone toolkit to learn more.
Youthspace.ca: Use the online chat, or send a text message to 778-783-0177
