Challenges to Mental Health and Well-Being

A mental health problem is a short term and temporary change in a person's

thoughts, feelings, or behavior that upsets one's well-being, interpersonal relationships,
and productivity. Mental illness, on the other hand, refers to diagnosable mental disorders
characterized by changes in one's thinking, feeling, and behavior, as well as in one's
relationships and productivity. There is usually distress or impaired functioning during
mental illness.

Many adolescents are more susceptible to mental health concerns than adults. This
is primarily due to their underdeveloped brain and continuing changes in their bodies. In
addition to this, the adolescent is also going through tough times in resolving their identity
crisis and role confusion.

Roughly 20% of a country's total population falls under the 10 to 19 years of age
category or the adolescence category. The WHO estimates that there are around one billion
adolescents around the world today. This is the reason why the World Health Organization
has mandated every member-nation to provide special health services to the adolescent
segment of their population.

The WHO enumerated possible mental health challenges faced by adolescents

worldwide. These include "conduct or behavior disorders, anxiety, depression and eatinf
disorders, as well as risk behaviors including those that relate to sexual behavior, substance
abuse, and violent behavior."

5 Warning Signs of Mental Health Risk

A Change in Personality
Uncharacteristic Anxiety, Anger, or Moodiness
Social Withdrawal and Isolation

Lack of Self-Care or Risky Behaviors

A Sense of Hopelessness or Feeling Overwhelmed