Psychological health of adolescents: how to help a child

Psychological health of adolescents: how to help a child

I. Understanding of adolescence: period of challenges and opportunities

Adolescence, as a rule, covers a period of 10 to 19 years, is a critical stage of development, characterized by significant physical, emotional, cognitive and social changes. These changes can create both opportunities for growth and self -knowledge, and challenges that can negatively affect the psychological health of the teenager.

A. Physical changes and their impact on the psychological state

1. Pubertate: Hormonal changes occurring during puberty have a deep effect on the mood, energy and self -esteem of a teenager. Physical changes, such as hair growth on the body, breast augmentation in girls and changing the voice in boys, can cause embarrassment, anxiety and self -doubt.

2. Body cheek: Adolescents are especially susceptible to the pressure of a society concerning the ideals of beauty and physical form. Dissatisfaction with its body can lead to the development of eating disorders, depression and anxiety.

3. Dream: The lack of sleep is a common problem among adolescents. The biological changes occurring in adolescence shift the sleep cycle, forcing adolescents to fall asleep later and later wake up. In combination with the academic load, extracurricular activities and social obligations, this can lead to chronic lack of sleep, which negatively affects the mood, concentration and performance.

B. Emotional changes and their impact on the psychological state

1. Mood variability: Hormonal vibrations and changes in the brain can lead to sudden and unpredictable mood changes. Teenagers can experience the periods of joy and excitement, replacing sadness, irritability and anger.

2. Search for identity: Teenagers are actively looking for their identity, trying to understand who they are and what place they occupy in the world. This process can be complex and confusing, leading to feelings of uncertainty, doubt and anxiety.

3. Emotional regulation: Teenagers learn to regulate their emotions, which can be especially difficult in periods of stress and uncertainty. Insufficient emotional regulation can lead to impulsive acts, outbreaks of anger and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.

C. Cognitive changes and their impact on the psychological state

1. Development of abstract thinking: Teenagers begin to think more abstractly and critically, which allows them to analyze complex problems and make more conscious decisions. However, this can also lead to increased introspection and anxiety about the future.

2. Social knowledge: Teenagers develop the ability to understand the thoughts and feelings of other people, which allows them to better navigate in social situations. However, this can also lead to increased sensitivity to the opinion of peers and pressure from society.

3. Decision -making: Teenagers learn to make decisions on their own, which can be complex and responsible. Inability to make the right decisions can lead to guilt, disappointment and self -doubt.

D. Social changes and their impact on the psychological state

1. Relations with peers: Relations with peers are becoming more and more important in adolescence. Teenagers strive for recognition and acceptance from their friends and peers, which can lead to pressure from the group, competition and social exclusion.

2. Relations with parents: Relations with parents often change in adolescence. Teenagers strive for greater autonomy and independence, which can lead to conflicts and misunderstanding.

3. Romantic relationship: Romantic relationships are becoming more and more common in adolescence. These relationships can be a source of joy and support, but can also cause stress, anxiety and disappointment.

II. Common problems of psychological health in adolescents

Teenagers are subject to various problems of psychological health, which can significantly affect their well -being, performance and social relations. It is important to recognize the signs of these problems and provide timely assistance and support.

A. Depression

1. Symptoms: A constant feeling of sadness, hopelessness, irritability or emptiness; loss of interest in activities that previously brought pleasure; changes in appetite or weight; sleep disturbances; fatigue and lack of energy; difficulties with concentration; a feeling of guilt or worthlessness; Thoughts about death or suicide.

2. Risk factors: Genetic predisposition; traumatic events; stress; chronic diseases; abuse of psychoactive substances; low self-esteem; Lack of social support.

3. Treatment: Psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy); drug treatment (antidepressants); A combination of psychotherapy and drug treatment.

B. anxiety disorders

1. Symptoms: Excessive anxiety and anxiety; difficulties with relaxation; irritability; muscle tension; sleep disturbances; fatigue; difficulties with concentration; Panic attacks (sudden attacks of intense fear, accompanied by physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating and dizziness).

2. Risk factors: Genetic predisposition; traumatic events; stress; chronic diseases; abuse of psychoactive substances; perfectionism; low self-esteem; Lack of social support.

3. Treatment: Psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral therapy); drug treatment (antidepressants, anxiolytics); A combination of psychotherapy and drug treatment.

C. Disorders of food behavior

1. Anorexia: Restriction of food consumption, leading to a dangerous weight loss; intensive fear to gain weight; A distorted perception of your body.

2. Bulima: Episodes of overeating, followed by compensatory actions, such as vomiting, using laxatives or excessive physical exercises.

3. Compulsive overeating: Episodes of overeating without compensatory actions.

4. Risk factors: Genetic predisposition; pressure from society regarding the ideals of beauty; low self-esteem; perfectionism; traumatic events; depression; anxiety.

5. Treatment: Psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy); drug treatment (antidepressants); hospitalization (in severe cases); Dietological counseling.

D. attention deficit syndrome (hyperactivity)

1. Symptoms: Inattention (difficulties with concentration, forgetfulness, distractiveness); hyperactivity (anxiety, restlessness, excessive talkativeness); impulsiveness (difficulties with the expectation of your turn, interrupting other people, making hasty decisions).

2. Risk factors: Genetic predisposition; exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy; premature birth; Low birth weight.

3. Treatment: Medical treatment (stimulants, non -submissions); psychotherapy (for example, cognitive-behavioral therapy); behavioral therapy; Consulting parents and teachers.

E. autistic spectrum disorders (races)

1. Symptoms: Difficulties in social interaction and communication; repeating behavior and interests; sensory features (increased or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli).

2. Risk factors: Genetic predisposition; the age of the parents; The effect of toxic substances during pregnancy.

3. Treatment: Behavioral therapy; speech therapy therapy; occupational therapy; Drug treatment (to relieve concomitant symptoms, such as anxiety and irritability).

F. Abuse of psychoactive substances

1. Reasons: Experimentation; pressure from peers; stress; depression; anxiety; traumatic events; genetic predisposition; Family history of abuse of psychoactive substances.

2. Consequences: Health problems; problems with academic performance; Relationships problems; offenses; addiction; overdose.

3. Treatment: Detoxification; psychotherapy; group therapy; drug treatment; Rehabilitation programs.

G. Self -regulatory behavior

1. Forms: Cuts; burns; scratches; blows; torn hair; poisoning.

2. Reasons: A way to cope with strong emotions; a sense of control; Punishment of oneself; Search for relief; Attraction.

3. Treatment: Psychotherapy (for example, dialectical behavioral therapy); Drug treatment (for the treatment of related mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety).

H. Suicidal thoughts and behavior

1. Signs: Talk about death or suicide; expression of hopelessness and despair; departure from friends and family; loss of interest in activities; distribution of valuable things; sudden improvement of mood after a period of depression; Self -regulatory behavior.

2. Risk factors: Depression; anxiety; eating disorders; abuse of psychoactive substances; traumatic events; family history of suicide; lack of social support; Access to the means of suicide.

3. Actions: Seek professional help immediately; Do not leave the teenager alone; remove potentially dangerous items (for example, medicines, weapons); carefully listen and support a teenager; To assure the teenager that they will help him.

III. How to help a teenager: the role of parents, teachers and peers

Assistance to a teenager faced with psychological health problems requires a comprehensive approach, including support from parents, teachers, peers and specialists in the field of mental health.

A. The role of parents

1. Creating a safe and supportive environment: It is important to create an atmosphere of trust, acceptance and unconditional love at home, where a teenager feels comfortable, expressing his thoughts and feelings.

2. Active hearing: Take the time to carefully listen to the teenager without interrupting and not condemning him. Show empathy and try to understand its point of view.

3. Communication: Support open and honest communication with a teenager. Discuss his problems, experiences and fears.

4. Establishment of borders and rules: Install clear boundaries and rules regarding the behavior, study, use of gadgets and social networks. However, be flexible and ready for compromises.

5. Recognition of achievements and strengths: Support the teenager in his hobbies and interests. Mark his achievements and strengths, helping him increase self -esteem and self -confidence.

6. Professional help: If you notice signs of psychological health problems in a teenager, do not hesitate to seek professional help to a psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist.

7. Caring for yourself: It is also important for parents to take care of their own psychological health. Stress and burnout can negatively affect the ability to support a teenager.

B. The role of teachers

1. Creating a positive and supportive atmosphere in the class: It is important to create an atmosphere of respect, acceptance and cooperation in the classroom, where each student feels valuable and heard.

2. Attention to signs of psychological health problems: Teachers should be attentive to the signs of psychological health problems in students, such as changes in behavior, performance, mood and social relations.

3. Providing support and directions to specialists: If the teacher noticed the signs of psychological health problems with the student, he must provide him with support and send him to the school psychologist, consultant or other specialist.

4. Cooperation with parents: Teachers must cooperate with parents in order to provide an agreed approach to the support of a teenager.

5. Improving awareness of psychological health problems: Teachers can conduct classes and events in the class aimed at increasing awareness of psychological health problems and reducing stigma associated with mental illness.

C. The role of peers

1. Be a friend and support: Teenagers can support their peers, showing empathy, attentiveness and willingness to listen.

2. Help seek help: If the teenager is concerned about the state of his friend, he can help him seek help from his parents, teacher or other adult.

3. Confronting bullying and discrimination: Teenagers can resist buling and discrimination, creating a positive and supporting atmosphere in school and community.

4. Increase awareness of psychological health problems: Teenagers can participate in events aimed at increasing awareness of psychological health problems and reducing stigma associated with mental illness.

IV. Strategies for improving the psychological health of adolescents

There are various strategies that can help adolescents strengthen their psychological health and develop resistance to stress and life difficulties.

A. Development of skills of emotional regulation

1. Awareness: Learn to realize your emotions and understand what causes them.

2. Acceptance: Take your emotions without condemning yourself for them.

3. Expression: Find healthy ways to express your emotions, such as a conversation with a friend, keeping a diary or creativity.

4. Regulation: Use strategies for regulating emotions, such as deep breathing, meditation or physical exercises.

B. Strengthening social ties

1. Spend time with friends and family: Spend time regularly with people who support and love you.

2. Participate in public events: Enter clubs, sports teams or other organizations that are interesting to you.

3. Engage in volunteer activities: Help other people to feel useful and significant.

4. Develop communication skills: Learn to communicate effectively with other people, express your needs and set borders.

C. Caring for physical health

1. Proper nutrition: Eat healthy and balanced foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and proteins.

2. Regular physical exercises: Do physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

3. Sufficient sleep: Try to sleep at least 8-10 hours at night.

4. Avoid the use of psychoactive substances: Avoid drinking alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

D. Development of problems of solving problems

1. Determine the problem: Clearly formulate the problem you have encountered.

2. Generate possible solutions: Come up with as many possible solutions to the problem as possible.

3. Evaluate possible solutions: Weigh the pros and cons of each solution.

4. Choose the best solution: Choose a solution that seems most effective and realistic.

5. Implement the solution: Transfer the chosen solution to life.

6. Evaluate the result: Evaluate how effective the chosen decision was.

E. Practice of awareness and meditation

1. Awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings and sensations at the moment, without condemning them.

2. Meditation: Practice meditation regularly to calm the mind and reduce stress.

F. Search for positive aspects of life

1. Express gratitude: Every day find something for which you are grateful.

2. Focus on your strengths: Use your strengths to achieve your goals and overcome difficulties.

3. Surround yourself with positive people: Spend time with people who support you and inspire you.

4. Set with realistic goals: Set over achievable goals to feel successful and motivated.

V. Where to look for help

If you or your child are faced with psychological health problems, it is important to seek professional help. There are various resources that can provide support and assistance.

A. School resources: School psychologists, consultants and social workers.

B. Medical workers: Family doctors, pediatricians, psychiatrists.

C. Psychologists and psychotherapists: Specialists trained in diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.

D. Public organizations: Non -profit organizations offering consultations, support and educational programs.

E. Help and crisis lines: Free and confidential telephone services that provide emergency assistance in crisis situations.

F. Online-resource: Websites, forums and online consultations.

VI. Prevention of psychological health problems

Prevention plays an important role in ensuring the psychological well -being of adolescents. It is important to create conditions that contribute to healthy development and stress resistance.

A. Early detection and intervention: It is important to identify signs of psychological health problems in the early stages and provide timely assistance.

B. Educational programs: Programs aimed at improving awareness of psychological health problems and developing the skills of emotional regulation, solving problems and building a healthy relationship.

C. Family programs: Programs aimed at strengthening family ties, improving communication and developing children’s education skills.

D. Bulling prevention programs: Programs aimed at creating a safe and supportive atmosphere in school and community.

E. Programs for the prevention of abuse of psychoactive substances: Programs aimed at increasing awareness of risks associated with the use of psychoactive substances, and the development of failure skills.

F. Creating a healthy and supportive environment: It is important to create conditions that contribute to healthy development and stress resistance, at school, houses and in the community. This includes ensuring access to healthy foods, physical exercises, quality education and opportunities for social interaction.

VII. The role of technology and social networks

Technologies and social networks have an increasing impact on the psychological health of adolescents. It is important to understand both positive and negative aspects of this influence.

A. Positive aspects:

1. Access to information and resources: Technologies provide adolescents with access to a large amount of information and resources regarding psychological health.

2. Social connection and support: Social networks can help adolescents keep in touch with friends and family, especially if they live far from each other.

3. Self -expression and creativity: Technologies provide adolescents with opportunities for self-expression and creativity, for example, through blogs, creating videos or participation in online communities.

B. negative aspects:

1. Cyberbulling: Online utility and persecution may have serious consequences for the psychological health of a teenager.

2. Comparison with others: Social networks can contribute to comparing themselves with others, which can lead to low self -esteem and depression.

3. Technology dependence: Excessive use of technologies can lead to dependence, social isolation and sleep problems.

4. Distribution of misinformation: On the Internet, misinformation on the problems of psychological health may be spread, which can lead to incorrect solutions and harmful consequences.

C. Recommendations:

1. Limit the time of use of technology: Set the limits for the time spent on social networks and other gadgets.

2. Be careful with what you publish on the Internet: Remember that everything that you publish on the Internet can be seen by other people.

3. Show critical thinking: Do not believe everything that you read on the Internet. Check information from reliable sources.

4. Report about cyberbulling: If you are a victim of cyberbulling, inform your parents, teacher or other adult.

5. Use technologies for positive interaction: Use technologies to communicate with friends and family, training and creativity.

VIII. Support for adolescents with special needs

Teenagers with special needs, such as disability, chronic diseases or learning difficulties, may face additional challenges in the field of psychological health. It is important to provide them with specialized support and assistance.

A. Understanding of unique needs: It is important to understand the unique needs of each teenager and adapt the approaches to support, taking into account his individual characteristics.

B. Creating an inclusive environment: It is important to create an inclusive environment at school, houses and a community, where adolescents with special needs feel accepted, respected and included.

C. Access to specialized resources: It is important to provide access to specialized resources, such as specialized schools, rehabilitation centers and support groups.

D. Cooperation with professionals: It is important to cooperate with professionals, such as special teachers, speech therapists, labor traders and psychologists, in order to provide a teenager with comprehensive support.

E. Increased awareness and decrease in stigma: It is important to increase awareness of the problems that adolescents face special needs and reduce the stigma related to disability and other special needs.

IX. Legal and ethical aspects

It is important to know legal and ethical aspects regarding the provision of assistance to adolescents with psychological health problems.

A. Confidentiality: Compliance with confidentiality is an important ethical principle. The information received from the teenager should remain confidential, with the exception of cases when there is a risk of harm to himself or others.

B. Informed consent: Teenagers have the right to informed consent to psychological assistance. This means that they should be informed about the purposes of treatment, possible risks and advantages, as well as alternative treatment options.

C. Protection from abuse: Teenagers have the right to protect against abuse by specialists in the field of mental health.

D. Compliance with rights: It is important to observe the rights of adolescents provided for by law, such as the right to education, healthcare and social protection.

X. The future of the psychological health of adolescents

In the future, it is necessary to continue to work to improve the psychological health of adolescents. This includes:

A. Increasing research financing: It is necessary to increase financing of research in the field of psychological health of adolescents in order to better understand the causes and consequences of the problems of psychological health and develop more effective methods of treatment and prevention.

B. Expanding access to services: It is necessary to expand access to mental health services for adolescents, especially in rural areas and among marginalized population groups.

C. Training of specialists: It is necessary to prepare more specialists in the field of mental health who specialize in working with adolescents.

D. Integration of services: It is necessary to integrate services in the field of mental health to other sectors, such as education, healthcare and social protection.

E. Using technologies: It is necessary to use technologies to expand access to services and increase the effectiveness of treatment and prevention.

F. Improvement of awareness and decrease in stigma: It is necessary to continue to work to improve awareness about the problems of psychological health and a decrease in stigma associated with mental illness.

Remember that the help of a teenager with psychological health problems is a complex and long process that requires patience, understanding and cooperation from all interested parties. It is important to remember that each teenager is unique, and the approach to assisting should be individual and adapted to his needs.