Adolescent Mental Health Problems Increasing in the US

A clinical psychologist with extensive experience in child psychology who formerly worked in New Jersey, Beth Grosshans currently works part-time in private practice, where she specializes in parenting issues for children under 10. Beth Grosshans’ work addresses the current epidemic of mental health problems in children, with a focus on effective parenting practices to improve children’s mental health.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), child and adolescent mental health disorders have increased significantly in the past decade and were further aggravated due to the pandemic. From 2010 to 2020, suicidal thoughts and behaviors among young people increased by 40 percent, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, factors like mass violence, climate change, political polarization, and natural disasters may also hinder access to quality care.

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), common mental illnesses among adolescents include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The APA reported online bullying, discrimination, and sexual violence as some of the leading contributing factors to adolescent mental problems.