History of World Teen Mental Wellness Day
As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a contribution to his or her community.” Although the exact origin of mental health is difficult to determine, indications of it have been around for centuries. In early years, mental health issues were often presumed supernatural and even punished in religious societies.
Over time, scientists studied the topic in depth and began to better understand the psyche. Since the beginning of time, we have made strides in the field of psychology and understanding mental health. However, there is still much to do in terms of learning, educating people widely, and putting an end to the stigma associated with it. Even for those without any mental health struggles, mental wellness is an important aspect of health. It refers to overall emotional well-being, the ability to live a full life, and the flexibility to deal with life’s changes.
Mental health struggles are unfortunately common in teens, making up 16% of disease and injuries in people aged 10 to 19. Mental health issues start from around 14 years of age and often go undiagnosed and untreated. Suicide and depression are some of the leading causes of death among teens, and can even lead to other struggles such as substance abuse in later years
World Teen Mental Wellness Day begins and carries on very important conversations about mental health. People often fail to understand what teenagers go through, and the stigma associated with mental illness can make teens reluctant to ask for help. This day encourages open conversation and awareness to help teens around the world
