Supporting Teens amid a Mental Health Crisis

The teen mental health crisis is a pressing issue that has been compared to a pandemic. Dr. Kathy discusses the impact of social media and technology on the mental health of teenagers. The podcast highlights the increase in self-identified loneliness among teens, 20-somethings, and even 30-year-olds, which is considered one of the primary causes of the crisis. The use of social media has led to feelings of isolation, stress, and inadequacy, as young people constantly compare themselves to others. It also disrupts sleep patterns and makes it harder for them to focus.

The podcast mentions a conversation between Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and U.S. Attorney General Vivek Murthy, where Murthy refers to the increase in youth mental health issues as the defining public health crisis of our time. Host Wayne Stender questions whether teen mental health is truly a health emergency to this extent, considering the recent COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledges that there were already challenges in mental health prior to the pandemic, and it has only exacerbated the existing issues.

Dr. Kathy Koch, agrees that there is a crisis in teen mental health. She points out that suicide is the second leading cause of death for 10 to 24-year-olds, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. She also mentions other contributing factors, such as school dropout rates, church and faith dropout rates, and family dysfunction. While she acknowledges that there may have always been a crisis to some extent, she believes the current situation is alarming and requires attention.

Wayne desires a holistic approach to health, suggesting that there should be a focus on living a healthier lifestyle rather than relying solely on medication or external interventions. He questions whether the responsibility lies solely with social media platforms or if there is a collective responsibility as a culture, particularly among parents who shape the culture.

Wayne then asks Dr. Kathy about signs that indicate a teenager is struggling with their mental health and what steps can be taken to support them. Dr. Kathy emphasizes the importance of being aware of the signs and symptoms, such as changes in behavior, mood swings, withdrawal from activities and relationships, and expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness. She suggests actively listening to teenagers, providing a safe space for them to express their emotions, seeking professional help if needed, and fostering healthy relationships and connections.

This episode discusses the teen mental health crisis. It highlights the impact of social media and technology, the alarming increase in self-identified loneliness, and the need for collective responsibility in addressing the crisis. They also emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of struggling mental health in teenagers and taking appropriate steps to support them.