By: Seth Impson

Derek walked down the hall with his head down. The school was bustling with friends greeting each other, teachers calling out for students to get to class, laughter up and down the corridors. Music blared over the loudspeaker. Derek did not notice. He saw the festive Homecoming decorations on lockers and posters promising to “Beat the Bulldogs!” but he just could not get excited for any of it. As he rounded the corner, a group of kids scurried past and one bumped him on the shoulder. No one even seemed to notice he was there.

While Derek’s story is fictional, this type of situation can and does occur in every school. There are a number of red flags here- Derek cannot get excited about fun events, other kids fail to notice him, etc. Though it is not clear exactly what is going on, it is clear that Derek’s mental health is suffering. 

According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that one in seven 10-19 year-olds experience mental health conditions. This can include depression, anxiety disorders and behavior disorders. If left undiagnosed and untreated, these conditions can be detrimental and even fatal to teens. Statistically, 95 percent of suicides in teens were associated with a psychological disorder.

Anyone can be affected by mental disorders. Some risk factors identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are family history, early adverse life experiences such as abuse or trauma, biological factors, chemical imbalances in the brain, sexual assault, ongoing medical conditions, and drug or alcohol abuse. Thankfully, there are signs to watch for to help prevent these conditions from becoming life threatening

According to the CDC, these are some signs to be aware of when it comes to mental disorders that could indicate suicidal tendencies:

  • Sudden change in eating or sleeping habits
  • Increased anxiety
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Increased anger or rage
  • Being isolated
  • Talking about being a burden, feeling trapped or being in pain
  • Increased substance use
  • Expressing hopelessness
  • Talking or posting about wanting to die 
  • Making plans to die or obtain lethal means
  • Obsession with death or dying
  • Loss of interest in school, activities or friends
  • Problems focusing
  • Lack of response to praise or positivity

You might be thinking to yourself, “Wow, that sounds like so-and-so!” or maybe even, “That could be me.” So what do you do about it? The first step is to realize that mental disorders are nothing to be ashamed of and it is okay to ask for help. You are not alone. Everyone’s life is different but they are all important and worthy. Reach out. Talk to a friend or get help from a trusted adult. Connect with community or faith-based organizations. Local hospitals offer support groups and counseling services. If those are not options for you, there are resources available that can help.   

National Resources

  • Crisis Text Line: Text SIGNS to 741741 for 24/7, anonymous, free crisis counseling
  • Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988

Local Resources