Anxiety and depression among teens a concern as experts stress prevention
Feelings of isolation and loneliness, as well as associated anxiety and depression, are on the rise globally, particularly among our youth. Startling data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2023 revealed that nearly 60% of teenage girls reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless in 2021. This issue is not limited to the United States, with studies showing similar trends in other countries.
One significant study conducted by the Murdoch Research Children’s Institute (MCRI) in Melbourne, Australia, shed light on the prevalence of depression and anxiety among adolescents. The study followed 1,239 children from the age of 8 in 2012 to track their symptoms of anxiety and depression from ages 10 to 18. Shockingly, 64% of the respondents reported experiencing at least three episodes of anxiety or depression during their teenage years.
Girls were found to be more susceptible to chronic or persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression, with 84% of girls compared to 61% of boys reporting such symptoms. The study also highlighted that major life transitions, such as graduation from primary or secondary school, were associated with worsening periods of anxiety and depression.
Dr. Susan M. Sawyer, a prominent adolescent pediatrician and leader in adolescent health, emphasized the importance of mental health literacy in recognizing and reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression. She attributed the increase in reported cases to a decrease in stigma surrounding mental health and an improved ability for adolescents to identify emotional distress.
The impact of social media on adolescent mental health was also a significant concern raised by experts. Research at MCRI is ongoing to investigate the role of social media in exacerbating feelings of loneliness and disconnection among young people. Measures such as limiting social media access for those under 16 have been proposed, but more evidence is needed to determine their effectiveness.
Ultimately, Dr. Sawyer stressed the need for a focus on prevention rather than solely relying on clinical interventions. Schools play a crucial role in promoting mental health and well-being among adolescents, emphasizing the importance of physical activity, nature exposure, and overall well-being. By prioritizing prevention and creating a supportive environment for young people, we can work towards addressing the growing epidemic of anxiety and depression among our youth.
