Over the past few years, the conversation surrounding mental health has started to change, as stigma is addressed. These cultural shifts have allowed students and people around the world to have open and honest discussions about their mental health. As the conversation around mental health shifts, it is important to look at information and statistics about mental health, so we can stay informed.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience some form of mental illness each year. Another one of their statistics also shows that 1 in 6 U.S. youth, aged 6 to 17, experience a mental health issue each year. In 2016, it was reported that only 50.6% of kids (aged 6-17) received some form of treatment for their mental health disorder.

In an article from the American Psychological Association, it was reported that there has been a significant increase in the amount of children that are having depressive episodes. In children aged 12 to 17, the numbers increased by 52% in a span of 12 years. One of the possible reasons as to why there has been such a large increase in mental health issues among adolescents is the impact social media is having on teens. The increasing use of social media and the loss of sleep in teens are two possible indicators for these large numbers.

An article in the U.S. News discusses other potential reasons for the current mental health trends for children. The article says that while there are still no certain answers, social media and a lack of exercise are possible influencers. Over time, children have been getting less and less time to exercise, with PE courses being cut from many schools in general.

While these numbers and information may seem very daunting and bleak, it is important to remember that we are not alone in our struggles with mental illness. In the U.S. News article, it is reported that “20% of people are dealing with a mental health issue.” It is important to stay informed on this important topic so we can better increase our awareness and knowledge and be able to better help ourselves and those around us.

Sources

https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-the-Numbers https://health.usnews.com/conditions/mental-health/articles/what-mental-health-statistics-can-tell -us