Mental Health among Adolescent - A Literature Review

Abstract

Mental health is the state of balance between individuals and the surrounding world, a harmonious relationship between oneself and others. Adolescence is a period of physical growth and intellectual attainment at its peak, coupled with the setting of personality traits, decisions regarding future professions, and extreme emotional instability. The prevalence of mental illness is higher in adolescents. There are a number of studies regarding assessment of the mental health status of adolescents. A few example studies revealed that adolescents (69.2%) had a moderate level of mental health status. The prevalence of mental abnormalities is higher in young boys than girls. The mental health of an individual can be positively/negatively influenced by several factors like genetics, emotional skills, substance use, family distress, socioeconomic status, favor of the environment, and health issue (tianshu chu, yasser H). Knowledge of promotion of mental health is average in the adolescents. Youth suicide is a major public mental health problem. There are many risk factors inducing suicidal thoughts in adolescents. Promotion of both preventive and interventional measures, psycho education, campaign on awareness through media and prevention strategy plans and policies for adolescence at risk. The home and school environment are important for the mental health status of adolescents. The parents and teachers should be aware of their mental health status and know the influencing factors that contribute to poor mental health status.