We’re all aware of adult depression and suicide during the holiday season. Numbers are always off the charts and way too high.
But are you also aware of how the holiday season affects teens?
Especially during this COVID-19 period when socialization and friendship for teens is at an all-time low, we must not forget to do frequent mental health check-ins with our kids.
Recent Student Survey Statistics
In May 2020, the California Association of School Counselors published data from a mental health survey among California’s middle and high school students. The results were especially troubling.
Here are some key findings.
Percentage of students who reported already receiving mental health services.
Percentage of students, who were not receiving services, and now feel they may need services.
Thus, over half of California’s students could need mental health support.
Percentage of students who rated their mental wellness at 7 or above.
Percentage of students who rated their mental wellness at 7 or above.
The number of students who rated their mental health a 7 or above took a dip from 65% to just under 40%.
Percentage of students who rated their mental wellness at 3 or lower.
Percentage of students who rated their mental wellness at 3 or below.
The number of students who rated their mental health a 3 or lower more than tripled after the pandemic began, from 7.2% to 23%.
Parting Thoughts
Students expressed that they’re overwhelmed with:
- School work
- The well-being of their families
- General uncertainty
- Missing out on their high school experiences
2020 has been a rough year for everyone, but teens and young adults are among those hit hardest by mental health concerns. We urge you to have an open dialogue with your teen about their mental health during this time.
Here are some helpful resources to read and share with your teens:
- 7 Tips for How to Thrive—Not Just Survive—this Holiday Season
- Spending the Holidays Indoors: 21 Ways to Cope with the Quarantine Funk
- How Gratitude Can Get You Through the Holidays
We are always available and here for you. All our best for a terrific holiday season.
Best,
Elliot Kallen & Michael Hurwitz
Elliot Kallen
President
Michael Hurwitz
Senior Executive Director
P.S. Let us be a resource for you. Our website offers mental health information and resources for teens and young adults.
