The Just Ask movement, initiated on January 1st, has illuminated critical, taboo topics, ranging from STI fears to the struggles of teens with anxiety and identity crises. The number of admissions around mental health struggles begs for more digital mental health resources, in a space where teens feel more comfortable and safe.
Understanding the Struggle
While we all know the statistics well around mental health stigmas, what has stood out the most to me are the many teens that fall in the gray area short of an official psychiatric diagnosis. Many teens are caught between needing immediate medical intervention and silent suffering. Based on the questions, they appear to be battling unvoiced issues of anxiety and identity. Furthermore, they prefer anonymity, turning to forums like Reddit (Just Ask) or asking questions directly on our home page, rather than opening up to parents or guardians.
The shift to digital platforms for discussing sensitive health topics, from mental health to STIs, is a defining trait of this generation. This trend towards digital, anonymous interaction presents unique opportunities and challenges in providing support and accurate information.
In the last week, through our "Just Ask" platform, teens have shared their innermost thoughts and struggles with us, anonymously. Today, we delve into these real voices to explore teen anxiety, school pressures, the impact of family dynamics, and the quest for confidence.
1. The Weight of Depression
Anonymous Quote: "How do I deal with feeling depressed?"
Study Insight: Research in adolescent mental health shows a significant rise in depression among teens, often linked to social and academic pressures. In order for teens to get the support they need, there needs to be an alternative to traditional health care. Why? Surveys have indicated that a significant number of adolescents might avoid necessary health services because they do not want their parents to know, especially in cases involving sensitive issues like mental health or sexual health services.
Real-life Connection: This question echoes the silent struggle many teens face, feeling lost in navigating their emotions.
Takeaway: It's crucial to create supportive spaces where teens can openly discuss their feelings without fear of judgment. What we are currently offering does not suffice.
2. Anxiety Over School and Sleeplessness
Anonymous Quote: "I am so anxious about school I can't sleep."
Study Insight: Many studies highlight the impact of academic stress on teen mental health, linking it to issues like anxiety and sleep disturbances. Despite us knowing about the academic pressures, many teens do not seek help. Studies have shown barriers such as lack of time, interference with other activities, transportation difficulties, costs associated with mental health services (especially in America), availability and accessibility of professional help, and the use of technology in treatment and communication.
Real-life Connection: This teen’s concern sheds light on how school pressure transcends beyond the classroom, affecting their well-being and daily life.
Takeaway: Encouraging balanced lifestyles and coping strategies for stress can help alleviate these pressures. Schools and parents should prioritize mental health as much as academic achievement.
3. Coping with Family Changes
Anonymous Quote: "My parents just divorced 2 days ago, I am pretending to be ok because I don't want to share with anyone my feelings."
Study Insight: Studies indicate that major family changes, like divorce, significantly impact teen mental health, often leading to feelings of isolation and distress. However, teens often do not accept the offerings of support such as talking to a therapist.
Real-life Connection: This quote highlights the internal conflict teens face in expressing their emotions during family upheavals.
Takeaway: Thought a child may turn down support during and after the divorce, close attention is needed as they could be seeking support elsewhere.
4. Virtual Confidence vs. Real-Life Challenges
Anonymous Quote: "I have no confidence in real life, but I feel it when I am playing Roblox."
Study Insight: Research into digital and real-life personas shows a stark contrast in confidence levels among teens, with many finding solace and self-assurance in online identities. One study showed that individuals who express themselves authentically on social media, aligning their online persona with their self-view, tend to report higher levels of life satisfaction. This suggests that the freedom to tailor one's digital identity in a way that feels true to oneself can positively impact subjective well-being.
Real-life Connection: This teen's experience points to the complex relationship between virtual confidence and real-life insecurities.
Takeaway: Encouraging healthy digital habits and finding ways to translate online confidence into real-world situations can be beneficial. It’s about bridging the gap between these two worlds.
The voices of our teens are powerful indicators of the underlying struggles they face. By listening to their concerns and responding with empathy and support, we can guide them through these turbulent years.
For Teens: Your feelings are valid, and there’s strength in sharing them. You’re not alone in this journey.
For Adults: Listen actively and create spaces where teens feel comfortable to share their struggles.
Recognizing the need for discreet, digital-first support across personal and sensitive topics is crucial. By addressing this need, we can create a more supportive and accessible environment for today's youth, whether they are dealing with mental health issues, STIs, or other sensitive topics.
Have a question? Join our subreddit "Just Ask" or go to our
and drop a question anonymously!
References:
'Shhh! Please don't tell…’ Confidentiality in child and adolescent mental health. Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 January 2018. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/bjpsych-advances/article/shhh-please-dont-tell-confidentiality-in-child-and-adolescent-mental-health/9F34C68A0658C08EC087F85A2E268286
Sleep, Anxiety, and Academic Performance: A Study of Adolescents From Public High Schools in China. Front. Psychol., 01 July 2021. Sec. Health Psychology Volume 12 - 2021. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.678839/full
Why don’t teenagers seek help for anxiety and depression?
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