TRAVERSE CITY— May is Mental Health Awareness Month, bringing renewed focus to the ongoing discussion about teenage mental health in homes and schools across Northern Michigan.
According to the Mayo Clinic, one in five U.S. teens experiences mental health issues, with pediatric mental health hospitalizations increasing by 124% since 2016.
Counselors note that the teenage years can be among the most challenging as young people navigate the complexities of transitioning to young adulthood. This period often involves significant ups and downs, requiring substantial support.
Parents are encouraged to support their teen’s mental health needs and maintain open lines of communication, even though this can be difficult. Mental Wellness Counseling, a larger practice with two locations in Traverse City, provides services for young people.
Joe Hall, a counselor at Mental Wellness Counseling, highlights the importance of mental well-being for teens.
“I think it’s super important for people to be aware that there’s services out there for kids and teens helping them and the awareness part is super important for parents and educators that they have knowledge of the issues that teens,” Hall said.
Teens often struggle to seek assistance due to the stigma surrounding mental health care.
Parents are advised to monitor for any behavioral changes that do not align with their child’s typical character and to approach conversations from a non-judgmental perspective. When considering coping mechanisms, Hall suggests focusing on enjoyable activities.
“I think one we want to start out with as far as coping skills, find the things that they enjoy doing. Any activity or or event can be used as a coping skill if it’s used in the right manner,” Hall said.
If parents observe their teen is struggling in school, Hall recommends contacting specific individuals or personnel within the school system who are assigned to address such matters.
“If they’re having difficulty into school, contact the school system specific individuals in the schools or personnel that assigned to look into those things for the kids,” Hall said.
Parents are also encouraged to research various community resources, including those at schools, the Boys and Girls Club and Community Mental Health programs.
Hall underlined the parental responsibility during these times. “Our job as parents is to help them get through this difficult time without causing too much harm to themselves but really understand this is the phase of their lives, but it’s the time that we have to help guide them and let them experience some of their own mistakes,” Hall said.