Is Poor Mental Health Common Nowadays?

It's fascinating to learn that the brain continues to develop until the age of 25, and the teenage years can be a challenging time for our brains as many changes occur simultaneously. Consequently, mental health issues are common among young people, with anxiety and depression being the most prevalent. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that almost 25 percent of teenagers experience anxiety and depression at some point, and if left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences.

 

Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), also known as brain strokes, are typically more common among adults over the age of 65, but they can also occur in teens and young adults. Fortunately, recovery is typically fast and complete if caught early enough and treated quickly. Stress and traumatic experiences in the past are common causes of CVAs among young people, and they may face high levels of stress due to school pressure, exam anxiety, peer pressure, relationship problems, and drug use. A child or teen's brain is still developing and is particularly sensitive to changes, making it vulnerable to external and internal factors.

 

Mental distress is a term used to describe a range of mood disorders and other mental illnesses, most commonly affecting people aged between 16 and 24. Mood disorders, including depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder, are common causes of mental distress. People with mood disorders often have low moods, feel unhappy, and lack energy. They may also have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.

 

Is Poor Mental Health Common Nowadays?

Anxiety attacks are intense feelings of panic and fear that can be physical and emotional, affecting about 30 percent of the world's population at some point in their lives. Women are more likely than men to experience an anxiety disorder. Mood swings, sudden and dramatic changes in a person's mood, can cause feelings of intense happiness, sadness, irritability, restlessness, aggression, and anxiety. Depression is a mental health condition characterized by a constant feeling of sorrow and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed. Panic attacks are sudden and severe anxiety attacks that can cause frightening physical and emotional symptoms, including a feeling of losing control, fear of dying, or impending doom.

 

Poor mental health can manifest as a change in behaviour, sudden outbursts of anger, mood swings, and withdrawal from social situations. Other symptoms include changes in sleeping patterns, unexplained changes in eating habits, low self-esteem, hopelessness, and thoughts of self-harm. However, the good news is that mental health problems in young people can be treated, and seeking help from a mental health professional can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term problems. Early intervention is crucial in preventing poor mental health from becoming a long-term issue.