RISKS

Some young people experience persistent challenges with depression, anxiety, hopelessness and other mental health issues that may be diagnosed by a professional and treatable as a medical issue. As parents and caretakers we may be left wondering if our moody teen is exhibiting “normal” teen behavior or something “more”.  You know your kid. If you are concerned at all that your teen may be experiencing mental health challenges that need support, please reach out to a medical or mental health professional.

The close relationship between mental health and substance use goes in both directions. Teens who struggle with mental health challenges are more likely to use substances. In turn, teens who use substances may be more likely to experience mental health challenges in the future.When our social and emotional health is suffering and we don’t have adequate resources to cope, substance use initially can make an easy and effective coping strategy.  Depending on the substance, they can initially generate feelings of relaxation and calm, happiness, and even connectedness to a greater power.

But the more our bodies grow accustomed to substances, the more substance

we need to get the same feeling, and this is the pathway to addiction and to severe health consequences. For more on the short and long term consequences of substance use, see ______(link to substance use page)  Importantly, intervening early in mental health challenges may also be a way to prevent substance use.

Suicide is a complex health issue and can be treated in the same way other health issues are addressed–by understanding the facts, knowing the signs, identifying risks and protective factors, and creating a plan to stay safe and supported. Some possible signs that a person is thinking about suicide include: acting withdrawn, feeling lonely, or expressing thoughts of being a burden; Talking or writing about suicide;

Changes in sleep pattern or appearance; Bullying or being bullied; Joking about suicide;

Humiliation; Lack of acceptance for gender or sexual identity. Help is available by calling 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. For more information about suicide and how to support someone, see [link to compassion to action booklet?]