It’s no secret mental health is a very touchy, and difficult topic for many. Everyone needs to focus on it more, and that’s a fact. So many teens, adults, people struggle day to day and nobody seems to try to pay attention or help.
Saying you need help is way harder for some than it is for others. It’s okay to not be okay, and people will still know that, but struggle.
Parents need to stand up. Nobody can be blamed for mental health in general, but parents play a big role. Many people can’t even try to ask their parents for help because they simply don’t care or don’t believe.
“My kid is struggling? How? I give and do so much to and for them, I provide a roof over their head, I give them food and clothes, it’s social media or something else.”
Sure, maybe social media plays a part, but so do they. Parents need to take responsibility for their actions. Just because you do what you’re literally supposed to do, doesn’t mean you’re not the problem or part of the problem.
If that is not convincing enough, there are plenty of facts and statistics surrounding this topic. For one thing, it is estimated that 3.6% of 10 to 14-year-olds and 4.6% of 15 to 19-year-olds experience an anxiety disorder. Additionally, depression is estimated to occur among 1.1% of adolescents aged 10–14 years, and 2.8% of 15–19-year-olds.
Parents need to try harder, need to do better, and help. People don’t want to reach out for help because there is always a consequence, and why make things worse for people going through the worst? On the surface, it doesn’t make sense.
A lot of kids end up being raised by grandparents or other family members for various reasons, and it’s a growing trend. The exact statistics can vary, but it’s not uncommon. Resources such as the Children’s Bureau or local social services could provide the most accurate and up-to-date numbers.
However, it is so obvious that the numbers only rise. Just because kids have to be taken care of by their grandparents, doesn’t mean it is any better of a situation. In some cases, it could even be worse.
We need to help our youth and each other, before it is too late. You never know what someone is truly going through. Parents and guardians must step up to the plate, and provide the nurturing, patience, and assistance their children so desperately need.
