Being a teenager is difficult at the best of times. Whether its physical or hormonal changes, friendships, romances or conflict, navigating the teen experience can be incredibly isolating without the right support. Add in lockdowns, isolations and school closures, and you have a rocky foundation for good wellbeing and mental health.
Research by the Mental Health Foundation (2020) found that many teenagers have struggled with their mental health during the pandemic. Include were reports of symptoms of anxiety disorder.
“Twenty-seven per cent of British teenagers surveyed said they felt ‘nervous, anxious or on edge’ most or nearly all the days of the previous fortnight.”
Without direct support from peers or teachers, these feelings will only grow and start to affect other aspects of their young life. The report also quoted statistics that went on to show that
“Twenty-six per cent of British teenagers surveyed said they had had trouble concentrating on things like schoolwork, reading and watching TV.”
Catherine Seymour, Head of Research at Mental Health Foundation, said, “our evidence indicates that teenagers from less advantaged homes are having the hardest emotional struggle of all.” The study found that financial pressures and lesser opportunities to connect with friends being the most affecting factors to poorer mental health. Along with this, many schools have been forced online, making keeping up with schoolwork more difficult for those with limited internet access or space to study.
Mental health charity Young Minds has also conducted Covid-19 specific research, which it published in January 2021. It reports that 67% of those surveyed believed that the pandemic will have a long-term negative effect on their mental health.
Bereavement, trauma, damaged friendships and education were quoted as their main sources of concern.
Many teenagers may have not had access to the vaccine program just yet, which for those who live with vulnerable people is necessary to have more freedoms. However, it has recently been announced that high-risk children and those living with vulnerable adults will be able to book their vaccines. Information regarding vaccinations for other under 18s is currently pending.
If you are concerned about your own mental health, or the wellbeing of a teenage friend or family member, below are some services that may help, alongside some opportunities and events:
Services for children and young people
Mind in Brighton and Hove
https://www.mindcharity.co.uk/advice-information/local-services/services-for-young-people/
Specialist children and young people mental health workers in GP practices
West Sussex Mind
Opportunities and events for teenagers:
Steyning Downland Scheme are catering their summer 2021 events towards the youth of West Sussex and beyond. Their ‘Youth Special’ will involve multiple events including: the real street arts project, the mini big picnic and youth action day. Many of the events are low cost or free to attend.
Find out more information at:
https://www.facebook.com/SteyningDownland/
East Grinstead based charity, Rites for Girls, is offering 100 free places on their course ‘The Girls’ Net’. The organisation aims to prepare young girls for the emotional and physical changes of puberty, along with understanding their wellbeing and how to practise self-care. The impact of the pandemic has no doubt taken its toll on the youngest of our society and these changes/responsibilities will seem more consuming than ever. Rites for Girls provides a nurturing community of non-judgemental support to help girls at this difficult time.
Parents and carers can apply for their child to take part via: https://www.ritesforgirls.com/girls-net/
References:
Teenagers' mental health under severe pressure as pandemic continues - new research
Mental Health Foundation
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/news/teenagers-mental-health-pandemic
COVID-19 January 2021 survey
Young Minds
