Prioritizing the Mental Health of Our Children and Teens

As a licensed therapist, educator, and mother, I’ve witnessed firsthand the emotional weight our children and teens carry in today’s world. The demands of school, social pressures, exposure to trauma, and even social media take a serious toll on their mental health. It’s a reality we can no longer afford to ignore: our children are struggling, and many of them are doing so in silence.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 children in the U.S. experience a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder each year [1]. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 24 [2]. Even more alarming is the fact that about 50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14, yet nearly 80% of youth who need mental health services do not receive them [3]. These statistics aren’t just numbers, they represent real young people in our homes, classrooms, and communities.

Common mental health challenges for children and teens include anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders such as ADHD or oppositional defiant disorder, trauma responses, and identity struggles related to gender, culture, or sexuality. Unlike adults, young people may not always verbalize what they’re feeling. Instead, signs may appear in the form of irritability, withdrawal, declining grades, defiance, or even perfectionism.

This is why it’s so important for parents, caregivers, and educators to pay close attention to changes in behavior, sleep, appetite, and emotional responses. Creating safe, nonjudgmental spaces for children to express themselves can make a world of difference. It’s equally vital to have conversations around mental wellness early, normalize therapy, and teach children coping skills, emotional regulation, and the importance of self-care.

As a therapist, I strongly believe in early intervention. Just as we seek medical attention for physical illness, we should not hesitate to consult a mental health professional when emotional or behavioral concerns arise. Therapy and coaching provide tools for coping, build confidence, and offer much-needed support during critical stages of development. At Meadows Counseling Group, we are committed to supporting children, teens, and families with compassionate, culturally responsive care. Whether your child is in crisis or you simply want to build their emotional resilience, know that help is available and healing is possible. If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, don’t wait. The earlier we respond, the better the outcomes.

Dr. Chante Meadows is a licensed therapist, coach, and mental wellness educator with over 20 years of experience supporting youth, families, and professionals. She is the founder of Meadows Counseling Group, where therapy meets real-life solutions. Learn more or schedule an appointment.

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/data-research/index.html#:~:text=Childhood%20mental%20health%20conditions%20affect,data%20from%202022%E2%80%932023:1

[2] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide#:~:text=Suicide%20was%20the%20second%20leading,ages%20of%2035%20and%2044

[3] https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/