Mental Health Awareness Month: Teen Mental Health Resources
- Anne Johnson
- May 8, 2024
- 3 min read
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for support and resources for those who need them. For teenagers, navigating the complexities of adolescence can often bring about challenges to their mental well-being. From academic pressures to social dynamics, teenagers face a myriad of stressors that can impact their mental health. It is crucial for them to know that they're not alone and that there are resources available to help them cope and thrive.
In this blog, I highlight some of the top mental health resources specifically tailored for teenagers, including hotlines and free apps that provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Teen Mental Health Hotlines
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988): Available 24/7, this hotline offers confidential support and crisis intervention for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress.
Crisis Text Line (Text "HELLO" to 741741): Teens can text this number anytime to connect with a trained crisis counselor who can provide support and assistance during moments of crisis or emotional difficulty.
Trevor Project Lifeline (1-866-488-7386): Specifically for LGBTQ+ youth, this hotline offers confidential support and crisis intervention for teens struggling with their sexual orientation, gender identity, or other related issues.
Teen Line (Text "TEEN" to 839863): Operated by Teens for Teens, this hotline provides a safe and confidential space for young people to talk about their struggles and receive support from trained teen volunteers.
Free Mental Health Apps for Teens
Headspace: This app offers guided meditation and mindfulness exercises designed to help teens manage stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.
Calm: With soothing sounds, sleep stories, and meditation exercises, Calm helps teens relax, unwind, and improve their mental resilience.
MindShift: Developed specifically for teens and young adults, MindShift offers tools and resources to help manage anxiety, stress, and other common mental health challenges.
What's Up?: Featuring a range of coping strategies, breathing exercises, and journaling prompts, What's Up? helps teens track their moods, challenge negative thoughts, and build resilience.
Woebot: This AI-powered chatbot provides evidence-based therapy techniques and support for teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Additional Resources
NAMI Helpline (1-800-950-NAMI): The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers support, information, and referrals to individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.
Local Mental Health Services: Many communities offer free or low-cost mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and crisis intervention programs. Contact your local mental health agency for more information or google "Psychology Today" to find counselors near you.
Whenever I work with students and families, I prioritize students' mental well-being and ensure they can access the support and resources needed to thrive. My previous blog discusses prioritizing mental health supports in college: https://www.edpathcoach.com/post/where-do-i-start-to-figure-out-my-student-s-path-4-mental-health-supports-in-college. It also includes a free planning for self-care in college template.
Whether it's reaching out to a hotline for immediate assistance or exploring helpful apps for ongoing support, there are countless ways for teens to prioritize their mental health and seek help when they need it. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and seeking help is a courageous step towards healing and resilience. Happy Mental Health Awareness Month!
Do you have a Rising Senior? Download my Free Checklist for Rising Seniors to be Ready To Complete Their Common Application Over the Summer ➡️ Click the link here (Spoiler alert - high school counseling offices close over the summer)
Schedule a complimentary 30-minute call to kickstart your teen's journey today! Click the link here
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