Teen Mental Health Crisis
Over a year ago, the United States Surgeon General declared that we, as a nation, have a mental health crisis on our hands with our kids, and especially teenagers. The pandemic put a spotlight on the mental challenges that are affecting adolescences, but in the 10 years leading up to the pandemic it was reported by the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System that “feelings of sadness and helplessness, as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviors, increased by about 40% among young people.” (apt.org)
“We’re seeing really high rates of suicide and depression, and this has been going on for a while,” said psychologist Kimberly Hoagwood, PhD, a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. “It certainly got worse during the pandemic.” (apt.org)
Children and teens faced so many unexpected obstacles due to COVID-19 including social isolation, academic disruption, large numbers lost caregivers, had a parent loose their job, or were victims of abuse at home. On top of all of these stressors, there are growing concerns about social media, mass violence, natural disasters, climate change, as well as political polarization, and none of those take into account the normal ups and downs of childhood and adolescence.
Psychologists across the field are studying the biological, social, and structural factors that are contributing to the current situation. They’re exploring ways to improve clinical training and working to restructure policies to support the most vulnerable kids and teens. Psychologists pushed for the new recommendation of regular anxiety screenings for kids 8-18 and regular depression screenings for ages 12-18.
Schools have been implementing methods to increase connectedness in the classrooms and beyond. “Psychological prevention strategies can teach youth how to less frequently blame themselves for harsh experiences, help peers feel valued and included, and consider adaptive and healthy responses even when confronted with aggression.” (scientificamerican.com)
In order to protect our teens and the most vulnerable, schools and faculty need resources and more mental health professionals are needed across the industry. If this mental health crisis is not addressed, it will not only cause distress for millions of today’s adolescence but it’s highly possible it will also impact the United States’ future productivity, success, and wellness as this generation matures into leadership roles.
How does acupuncture treat mental health issues?
Acupuncture is a great tool to have in a mental health care kit, so to say. It’s the perfect modality to pair with other treatments, like therapy. By restoring the internal environment of the body, acupuncture can go a long way in helping to reduce many symptoms related to mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, stress, moods, PTSD, pain, etc.
Acupuncture works to balance the nervous system to help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety, regulate emotions, improve digestion, decrease muscle tension, and boost overall wellbeing. “In an 8-week acupuncture study of 151 men and women, researchers found that depressive symptoms improved significantly. Those who received acupuncture, whether targeted or nonspecific, improved more than those who did not.” (webmd.com)
Book Appointment
If you would like to schedule an appointment please schedule here: First Visit. You may also give us a call at 404-233-5080 ext 106, and speak to a qualified healthcare professional to determine which approach is best for your individual needs.
