12.13.23 News Release from the NIDA
Reported drug use among adolescents continued to hold below pre-pandemic levels in 2023… yet overdose death rates among teens have risen in recent years.
Read Articleby Pamela Stoelzel M.S., LPC, NCC Community Health Specialist, CSC Center for Health Improvement at CoxHealth
Many teens are still struggling with emotional challenges as the world moves on from COVID-19. Our featured guest contributor breaks down some of the warning signs.
While we would always encourage you to listen to your teens in a non-judgmental manner, being available to ask and hear about their thoughts and feelings while they are experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic is especially important.
Many teens have been isolated for months, unable see friends in person, engage in extracurricular activities (including sports) and unable to see even close family members, such as grandparents. Virtual learning has added another element of stress to an already overwhelming situation.
Adolescents across the country are reporting higher levels of depression and anxiety. A first step in addressing these issues is to offer a listening ear and your support. Remember that teens will often try to hide what is going on with them emotionally, so it is important to pay attention to changes in behavior.
Whether or not your teen is experiencing depression or anxiety, we can all benefit from focusing on good self-care. As a parent, it’s important that you model good self-care for your child. Eating nutritious food, exercising several times a week and getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night are always important. Engaging in social activities (even remotely) and getting outdoors to experience nature and sunlight can also be beneficial. Mindfulness is another activity that can help individuals manage difficult emotions.
If you believe your child is suffering from anxiety or depression, a first step is talking with your pediatrician or primary care provider. There are several effective treatments for anxiety and depression, including therapy and medications.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK or Text the Crisis Text Line by texting 'TALK' to 741741.
COVID-19 Support for Teens and Young Adults
How to Help Teens Manage their Anxiety
Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Six Things to Say to a Teen Struggling with Anxiety or Depression
Parenting a Depressed Teenager
Anxiety and Depression in Children
Prevalence of Any Anxiety Disorder Among Adolescents
Statistics on Major Depression
Parents Guide to Teen Depression
American Academy of Pediatrics. Healthychildren.org, March 12, 2021 https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Signs-your-Teen-May-Need-More-Support.aspx
American Academy of Pediatrics. Healthchidlren.org, October 23, 2020 https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Parenting-in-a-Pandemic.aspx
Reported drug use among adolescents continued to hold below pre-pandemic levels in 2023… yet overdose death rates among teens have risen in recent years.
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