'I'm on the right track, baby I was born this way'
Academy award winner singer Lady Gaga, who sang the hit number 'Born This Way,' is the one behind the yearly celebration of World Teen Mental Wellness Day, which falls on March 2. Along with her mom, she founded the 'Born This Way' Foundation in 2012 to support the wellness of youngsters and raise awareness of mental health issues affecting teenagers. Gaga's mother Cynthia Germanotta often says in her interviews that it's important to have open conversations about mental health and destigmatise it, particularly among teenagers. She has also emphasised the role of community support, education and resources in promoting teen mental health. For several reasons, the mental wellness of youngsters should be handled carefully, which are:
Long-term well-being: Overlooking or inadequately addressing mental health issues in youth can lead to enduring consequences, including a heightened likelihood of developing mental health disorders in adulthood, grappling with substance abuse problems, and even encountering physical health complications down the road.
Social connections: Teenagers' mental well-being significantly influences their ability to cultivate positive relationships with peers, family members, and other important individuals. Neglected mental health can hinder effective communication, foster social withdrawal, and foster feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Prevention of suicides: Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety pose notable risks for suicidal behaviors among teenagers. Prioritizing teen mental health is essential for averting suicides and nurturing resilience and coping mechanisms.
Avoidance of harmful coping strategies: Adolescents grappling with mental health challenges are susceptible to resorting to harmful coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, self-harm, or engaging in risky sexual behaviors to alleviate emotional distress. Fostering mental wellness can help deter reliance on these detrimental strategies and encourage healthier coping skills.
