Mental Health Resources for Teens in California: Navigating Challenges
Finding quality mental health resources for teens in California can be challenging if you don't know where to find them or have access to them. Unless assisted by their parents, guardians, or even their schools, teens may struggle to obtain support for mental health symptoms they may be experiencing, such as anxiety or depression. The fact is that teenagers in the U.S. face mental health problems that may develop into clinical conditions with worsening symptoms that impede their school work, job, or relationships.
At BeWellLine, we understand the importance of pairing people of all ages with the mental healthcare support they need for their well-being. In California, many resources and treatment centers support teens who experience mental health disorders and their symptoms. Use the following guide to locate mental health resources for teens in California.
Contact BeWellLine by calling our help center at 866-349-0854 to learn more about using virtual mental health services.
The Growing Concern: Teenage Mental Health Facts
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression have increased among teens in recent years. Since 2007, the rate of anxiety incidence among teens has increased from 5.5% to 6.4% of the demographic. In 2019, more than 36% of teens reported persistent sadness or hopelessness. 18.8% of teens seriously considered suicide.
Teenage mental illness has become a serious health concern among the medical community and the community at large. Many school districts have increased spending to help provide counseling services that identify teens who may require clinical support. Many teens require professional mental health treatment only offered at accredited mental health facilities like BeWellLine. However, resources like support groups can provide supplement help for teens battling a mental illness.
Understanding the Teenage Mental Health Crisis
Generally, there will be signs and symptoms if someone is experiencing a teenage mental health crisis. A stressful event can trigger a mental health crisis for a teen. A breakup with a partner, problems with parents, or social problems at school can trigger symptoms of depression and anxiety, such as feelings of hopelessness or constant worry. Signs of a mental health crisis include:
- Mood swings
- Social isolation
- No longer participating in activities formerly enjoyed
- Crying
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Poor performance at school/work
- Difficulty concentrating
In extreme cases, individuals may show other signs of a serious mental health crisis, such as self-harm or suicidal thoughts/attempts.
If you notice that your teenage son or daughter is experiencing symptoms of a mental health crisis, it's important to get them help. Mental healthcare centers specialize in mental health conditions. Some teens may require medication for symptom relief. Mental health problems might be due to temporary circumstances or an underlying mental health condition such as anxiety. With therapy and, possibly, medication, teens can enjoy symptom relief and develop strategies for managing their mental health condition.
How Mental Health Affects Teens: Beyond the Surface
Teens with mental health symptoms may experience profoundly complex family, social situations, and school challenges. Their symptoms may include both psychological and physical symptoms. So, how does mental health affect teens? It can affect their lives and well-being in numerous ways. It can cause them to experience unstable emotions. They may suffer physical symptoms such as gastrointestinal complaints because of stress. Their academic performance may suffer. They might struggle with relationships at home and at school.
Proactive Measures: Helping Teens with Mental Health Issues
Anyone wondering how to help a teenager with mental health issues can benefit from exploring resources for California teens with mental health issues. Parents should check in with medical providers if they note that their teen is experiencing a mental health problem. A primary care physician can refer patients to a mental health professional if one is needed. Teachers can notify parents if they determine that a teen is struggling with a mental health problem or crisis. Teens' peers are also ideally placed to note if their friend is experiencing serious mental health symptoms like anxiety or depression. They should notify school officials or the parents/guardians of their friends to express their concerns.
Contact BeWellLine by calling our help center at 866-349-0854 to learn more about using virtual mental health services.
Essential Reads: Noteworthy Teenage Mental Health Articles
To understand the mental health situation, rely on resources like articles to help you understand the issue, spot signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, and find strategies for supporting/assisting teenagers experiencing mental health problems. Some helpful organizations and articles on the topic include:
Key Resources for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in California
California provides several resources that support mental health for teens and other demographics. These resources include:
You can also contact BeWellLine to learn about California mental health resources for teens near your home. We can provide custom support, helping patients find the ideal mental health resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health Resources for Students
What are the common signs of mental health issues in teenagers?
Teenagers may display a wide range of signs and symptoms of mental health problems if they struggle. Some of these signs and symptoms of teen mental health conditions include persistent feelings of hopelessness, anxiety in social situations, becoming increasingly isolated, no longer enjoying activities they used to enjoy, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite, emotional instability (mood swings), angry outbursts, self-harm, suicidal thoughts. These signs and symptoms are cause for concern; suicidal thoughts are considered a mental health care crisis/emergency and should be treated.
How can schools play a role in supporting students' mental health?
Schools can play a powerful role in the support of teenagers and their mental health and well-being. School districts can support schools and students by hiring mental health personnel who are able to provide counseling services. When students are struggling with a mental health issue that's beyond the scope of in-school counseling services, they can be referred for mental health treatment.
Are there any free or low-cost mental health resources for teens in California?
Yes, there are free and low-cost mental health resources for California teens. The state and area schools offer many resources for low-income teens.
How can parents be proactive in discussing mental health with their teens?
Parents should habitually check in on their teens to discuss their mental health. This way, if a teen is struggling with mental health symptoms for two weeks or longer, parents will know and can make arrangements to schedule a mental healthcare appointment.
Are there specific mental health challenges unique to teens in California?
Teens often face unique mental health challenges, such as social issues related to school. Issues like bullying or teen relationships can be triggers for mental health problems.
What steps should one take if a teen is in immediate crisis?
If a teen has a mental health crisis, it's important to consult a mental health provider or family doctor for help. If the crisis is related to suicide or self-harm, it may require an emergency room visit to obtain medical help.
How often should a teenager seek professional mental health support?
Teens should seek professional mental health support as needed. Mental healthcare is personalized to suit each person's needs.
Contact BeWellLine at 866-349-0854 to learn more about mental health resources for teens in California.
