Despite mental health, especially among teens, becoming a more normalized topic, many adolescents still struggle with getting the help they need.
Mental health,an essential part of overall health and well-being, is especially important for teenagers as they navigate the challenges and changes of adolescence. Unfortunately, mental health issues are common among teenagers, with studies showing that nearly an estimated 49.5% of adolescents had a mental health disorder at some point.
It is important for teenagers to be aware of their mental health and to seek help if they are struggling. This can include talking to a trusted adult or seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor.
At Pleasant Valley High School, the counseling office is an extremely important and helpful place to visit for students who are struggling.
“School counselors can offer services in crisis situations. We can also offer brief- solution focused assistance for students experiencing a struggle in a particular area. PVHS also has two mental health therapists (school-based therapy) that work in the building- Jennifer Cobb and Melissa Rowe. These therapists accept insurance for payment, and see students during the school day,” stated school counselor Ellie Thomas.
In addition to this, the counselors can provide information to students about other mental health agencies in the Quad Cities as well.
Studies show that 75% of people who go to therapy benefit from it, making therapy a great option for those who are struggling, and according to Thomas, many students regularly utilize the school’s therapy resources and other mental health resources from the counseling office. “The school counseling office at PVHS regularly sees students for a variety of mental health reasons. I think we are seeing many more students prioritize their mental wellness, which leads them to seek resources, often from the school counseling office,” Thomas continued.
Thomas believes that students are now more comfortable with asking and receiving help than they used to, showing growth in students’ beliefs and the school community regarding mental health.
Taking care of mental health is important for everyone, but it is especially important for teenagers as they are still developing and are more vulnerable to mental health problems. By promoting mental health awareness and seeking help when needed, teenagers can improve their overall health and well-being and set themselves up for success in the future.
