Research on Risk Factors for Teen Mental Health

A study published in Behavioral Sciences found that multiple risk factors can lead to adolescent mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and attempts.

For example, family environments that don't provide enough emotional support or are too strict can lower a teen's self-esteem and resilience by making it harder for them to handle challenges. Similarly, being rejected or bullied by peers can hurt their confidence in social situations.

The study also found that when moms are perfectionists, their kids are more likely to develop perfectionist tendencies. This affects their mental health by creating feelings of anxiety and frustration when they can't meet the high standards they've set for themselves.

Mental health disorders among teenagers are increasing, and since adolescence is such an important time for emotional and psychological growth, tackling these issues early can help prevent long-term struggles.

Understanding the Research

To better understand how different factors affect teenagers' mental health, this study looked at a wide range of research on the following:

• Individual traits
• Family environments
• Social relationships

The researchers reviewed 35 research articles from two main sources: PsycINFO and Google Scholar. To make sure they included high-quality and up-to-date research, they focused on studies that explore factors affecting mental health in teens, specifically those with participants aged 5-18. Moreover, they left out studies not in English, those without reliable measurements or scientific analysis, and non-original findings.

These were the findings:

• Individual vulnerabilities - Teenagers with low self-esteem, low self-confidence, or a tendency toward perfectionism often face higher rates of mental health issues. Those who have negative views of themselves or struggle with high expectations usually experience more emotional distress, which can lead to depression and anxiety.
• Family dynamics - Family problems such as economic stress and overly controlling parenting can significantly raise the risk of anxiety and depression in children. Children who grow up with little emotional support or in environments where parents are very controlling are more likely to develop these issues.
• Peer relationships and social climate - Negative experiences with peers, like being bullied or feeling left out, can lead to emotional and behavioral problems. On the other hand, having supportive friends and being in a positive school environment, where everyone feels included and teachers are supportive, can help lower the chances of developing mental health issues.

Practical Strategies for Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers

Based on the study’s findings, here are some tips to support adolescent mental health:

1. Balance discipline with warmth and flexibility. This is a characteristic of authoritative parenting. Authoritative parents set clear expectations and enforce rules, but they are also supportive and understanding. Here’s an article about an authoritative parenting style and other parenting resources.
2. Promote self-esteem. For parents who have high expectations, they need to make sure that they recognize their child’s efforts. Whether you are offering praise or constructive feedback, be specific rather than vague, and focus on their behavior rather than a character trait they can’t control. You can support the development of their self-esteem at home or school through various activities like resting and recharging, and doing something creative. Here’s a self-esteem alphabet handout for more ideas.
3. Teach social skills. Skills like empathy, conflict resolution, and communication (both verbal and non-verbal) can be improved with practice. Teens need them to effectively deal with social situations that feel complicated and be able to articulate their needs and build trust. They also reduce the likelihood of engaging in bullying behavior or being able to stand up against bullying without resorting to aggression.

The authors made suggestions for potential interventions and prevention programs based on the study, such as “...cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on a positive cognitive style through which individuals perceive and evaluate themselves, form expectations of others, and set goals. Programs aimed at promoting parent–child relationships and educating parents about child-rearing practices would be helpful for children’s mental health development. In addition, schools take a vital role in implementing regular mental health promotion training for teachers, which enables them to effectively recognize potential symptoms, particularly with regards to the emotional well-being of students following traumatic incidents occurring within the school environment.”

For more mental health resources to support a teenager in your life, check out our full collection of worksheets.