Adolescence is characterized by significant changes in brain development, hormonal fluctuations, and social pressures. Adolescents have a particularly crucial need to understand mental health and wellness as they are navigating a period of rapid growth and self-discovery. Mental health is not just the absence of a mental illness but also being in a state of well-being where individuals can realize their potential, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their communities. For adolescents, mental health can involve developing a sense of identity and building healthy relationships. Adolescents often require sound mental health wellness so that they can acquire life-long coping mechanisms for upcoming life challenges.

Adolescence can be a challenging time, and it's common to experience various mental health issues during this period. 

• Anxiety and Stress:

The most prevalent issue most adolescents face is anxiety and stress. This can often stem from academic or societal expectations and uncertainty about the future. Many adolescents can experience intense worry or fear, which often contributes to physical unwellness through shortness of breath, fatigue, lack of concentration and motivation, and poor sleep and diet.

• Depression and Mood Disorders

Depression and mood disorders are also prevalent among adolescents. This is often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Often, this may lead to negatively impacting daily functioning, social withdrawal, academic difficulties, and sometimes even substance abuse or self-harm.

• Eating Disorders 

Additionally, eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, disproportionately affect adolescents. This stems from body image concerns from societal pressures or the desire for control, which can risk serious physical and psychological consequences. 

Effective coping strategies can help adolescents navigate the challenges they face with their mental health wellness. Self-care is encouraged for adolescents to cope and prevent mental health wellness issues. This can be in the form of:

• Engaging in hobbies,
• Spending time with supportive peers, 
• Adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep; and
• Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises.

These practices can be vital outlets for stress relief and emotional expression to foster resilience and overall well-being. 

Lastly, adolescents should be empowered and encouraged to attend workshops or educational webinars to build their problem-solving skills and learn positive self-talk. This can help them navigate issues with confidence and adaptability, setting the stage for lifelong mental health and well-being.

Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. This includes recognizing the signs indicating the need for professional support. If persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness begin to interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. Interfering with daily life could be as simple as not brushing your hair or brushing your teeth as they may seem like emotionally tedious tasks. It can also be withdrawal from social activities, irritability, or sudden mood swings. Moreover, adolescents experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide should connect with emergency mental health services or crisis hotlines for immediate support and guidance. 

By promoting awareness and reducing the stigma around seeking help, adolescents can receive the support they need to address their mental health concerns effectively.

Canadian Mental Health Resources

Kids Help Phone (Ages 5-29) - Call 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) or text CONNECT to 686868. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to Canadians aged 5 to 29 who want confidential and anonymous care from trained responders.

Suicide Helpline - call or text 9-8-8. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For family or gender-based violence, you can access a crisis line in your province.

Lastly, the Government of Canada has resources available for all Canadians.