Authenticity (Real World Problem)
“Adolescence is a time of dramatic change. The journey from child to adult can be complex and challenging. Young people often feel tremendous pressure to succeed at school, at home and in social groups. At the same time, they may lack the life experience that lets them know that difficult situations will not last forever. Mental health problems commonly associated with adults, such as depression, also affect young people.” (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2016, p.1)
At least 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from mental health issues at some point in their life (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2016). Suicide is among the leading cause of death in 15-24 year olds. Only 20% of youth who need mental health services receive them. The stigma surrounding mental health is a barrier to teens getting the help they need. Students may be apprehensive to discuss mental health issues, lack the knowledge to understand mental health and may not have been taught strategies to cope with mental health problems. Awareness and understandingof mental health during high school is key to enhancing student health and well-being. Teaching, resources and support are critical to prevent tragic outcomes of untreated mental health issues, such as social withdrawal, school dropout, hospitalization and suicide.
adolescent mental health STATISTICS
- It is estimated that 10-20% of Canadian youth are affected by a mental illness or disorder – the single most disabling group of disorders worldwide.
- Today, approximately 5% of male youth and 12% of female youth, age 12 to 19, have experienced a major depressive episode.
- The total number of 12-19 year olds in Canada at risk for developing depression is a staggering 3.2 million.
- Once depression is recognized, help can make a difference for 80% of people who are affected, allowing them to get back to their regular activities.
- Mental illness is increasingly threatening the lives of our children; with Canada’s youth suicide rate the third highest in the industrialized world.
- Suicide is among the leading causes of death in 15-24 year old Canadians, second only to accidents; 4,000 people die prematurely each year by suicide.
- Schizophrenia is youth’s greatest disabler as it strikes most often in the 16 to 30 year age group, affecting an estimated one person in 100.
- Surpassed only by injuries, mental disorders in youth are ranked as the second highest hospital care expenditure in Canada.
Created By Colton Grant, Anna Hu, Casey McClary & Valerie Pedersen
Werklund School of Education
University of Calgary
Werklund School of Education
University of Calgary