WHY HAS MENTAL HEALTH DECREASED NOW OUT

Donate
Donate

Why has mental health in teenagers decreased: From the perspective of teens!

Mental health has decreased significantly over the past 5 years, especially in teenagers. Why? We ask teens themself! Let's find out.

Madison Relander, Katelyn Oriven, Dalilah Ibarra, Eyden Villarreal

8/6/202522 min read

COVID-19: A first-hand account

By Dalilah I.

I remember being nine years old when the global pandemic struck. Initially, I was excited to stay home and do nothing all day. However, when it was announced that we could return to public spaces without masks, I felt a sense of relief—until I had to socialize. Suddenly, I felt more anxious around people and more comfortable being alone. It became even more difficult when we were allowed back to school. My sleep schedule was a mess, and I had a hard time readjusting to a routine that felt like it had been disrupted for years. After the pandemic, I started experiencing symptoms of depression and stress. You, the reader, might be wondering, "Why are you telling me this?" Well, it's because COVID-19 has significantly affected the mental health of teens and preteens over the past few years. Whether people have acknowledged it or not, just as time has changed, so have people, especially teenagers.

The global pandemic forced us to stay at home for a long time, leading many teens to naturally isolate themselves from society. Many started communicating more through screens—texts or calls—rather than face-to-face. This led to a decrease in social interaction, which is crucial for the emotional development of teenagers. Due to the isolation, teens developed a sense of loneliness, which also impacted their mental growth. I remember how, after my initial excitement faded, I felt so lonely because I couldn't see many of my friends, family, and other loved ones. I often wondered why I wasn't allowed to see family members in person. Many days, I stared out the window, hoping someone I knew would visit so I could hug them tight and never let go. I missed playing with my friends and cousins, having big meals with all my family gathered around the table, telling jokes and stories. I missed seeing them face-to-face. Although we could see each other through screens, it didn't feel the same. After relying on screen communication for a while, you often forget what it's like to talk to someone in person or truly connect with them.

Many teens, including myself, lost their sense of time and routine after COVID-19 hit. Routines were disrupted by school closures and the cancellation of extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, and social events. This loss of structure allowed stress and self-expression to manifest in teens, potentially slowing down their personal growth. When I was allowed to go back to school, I remember being so confused about waking up early to get ready. I was used to waking up a little later, opening a laptop, and starting class. I started overlapping event times and constantly felt mixed up. My sleep schedule was erratic. I fell asleep in class on different occasions because I went to bed past midnight. The change was so fast, and I felt as if I was left behind, lingering on the past, uncertain how to process the sudden shift. It felt strange, like an enclosed animal being released into the wild once more.

One of the most acknowledged ways the pandemic affected teens and preteens is the increase in depression and anxiety. Many studies have revealed a rise in anxiety and depression symptoms since 2020. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), many factors may have contributed to this impact, such as limited access to friends, family, and school, economic status, and family stress. The lack of access to peers allowed teens to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety because the sense of loneliness could overwhelm them, alongside the fear of something happening to their loved ones, such as death.

Family stress also impacts mental health in different ways. When parents lost jobs during COVID-19, it caused stress within the family that could lead to child neglect, significantly affecting a child's mental health. Many parents, especially single parents and parents of young children, experienced significant economic and personal stress. Parental stress and mental problems directly affect their children, and some children are at risk for abuse or neglect because of the stress and situations they were in.

Studies have also shown an increase in teens questioning their identity since 2020, which has further impacted their mental state. Research indicates that teens who felt unsafe regarding COVID-19 were more likely to experience anxiety and depression symptoms. Furthermore, studies have shown that teens who learn too much information on their own without talking to their parents often have higher anxiety and even some symptoms of PTSD.

Other emotions linked to COVID-19 are fear and uncertainty. Many teens, including myself, have been living in fear ever since the pandemic occurred. The reason for this is the lingering question: Will something similar or worse happen again? How long will it last? Will we even survive? Although COVID-19 eventually subsided, it did enough damage to society to instill fear in many people about what will happen next. I've been told on multiple occasions that everything will be fine and that I'm overthinking what could happen in the future. While they might be correct, I'm still uncertain whether what they are saying is true. When the pandemic occurred, we were told it would only last for a few weeks. Weeks, however, turned into months, and months turned into years. I never understood how I was supposed to be certain that everything would be okay while new challenges were constantly emerging. Even though I am scared for the future, I'm staying positive that we will survive whatever happens next, because being negative isn't always the solution. So, I lifted my head and put those thoughts aside. Although it wasn't easy, and I still think about it from time to time, I always remind myself that I'm doing great now and I will tomorrow as well.

During lockdown, teens used social media extensively to pass the time. While social media, with apps like TikTok, YouTube, and Discord, is great for entertainment, it can also be harmful to mental health. Social media has both negative and positive impacts. Teens often compare their lives to others whom they believe "have it better," whether it's comparing bodies, life events, or anything that interests them. I remember looking at all these "pretty girls" on social media and questioning, "Why can't I look like them?" COVID-19 made many teens experience similar feelings, mainly because social media was used so much during the pandemic as one of the primary sources of entertainment.

Another example of social media's impact occurred on May 25, 2020, with the death of George Floyd at the hands of the police. Through social media, a video of his death exposed many children to examples of violence. Did you know that when people discovered the first cases of COVID-19 were identified in China, some referred to it as the "Wuhan virus" or the "Chinese virus"? That led to reports of racism against Asian Americans in the US. Studies have shown that one-half of Chinese American parents and children aged 10-18 experienced racial discrimination.

Not only did COVID-19 contribute to new mental health issues in teens, but it also intensified pre-existing mental health challenges. The significant stress provided by COVID-19 worsened the mental state of many teens. While the lockdown kept everyone at home, it made it more difficult for teens to find the professional help and resources they needed, due to most places being closed. Many teens struggled significantly during this time and had little to no one to support or help them, which exacerbated their mental health issues. This was a serious problem because mental health services were desperately needed, especially during such chaotic times with lockdowns, rising prices, and other unprecedented events.

Even though I have shared many impacts COVID-19 has had on teens' mental health, studies are still being performed worldwide on this topic. It's crucial to bring awareness to this issue to help others realize they are not alone, because despite all these struggles, many teens have found ways to cope with the pandemic's difficult challenges. Many teens have coped through their strong, supportive families. Others have found relief through engaging in healthy activities such as exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating properly. Many sought professional help after COVID-19, such as therapy, to help put their mental health on a positive track. What I'm trying to tell you is that there are many ways to cope with mental health issues you may be experiencing. Many of us share an experience that may end up in history one day. Although people might not feel exactly how you feel, there are others who feel something similar. And sometimes, being with people who have gone through the same or a similar experience as you is enough.

Effects of social media: It's no secret

By Katelyn O

It’s no secret that social media has become an inescapable part of a teenager’s world. Since the early 2000s, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have exploded in popularity, fundamentally altering how young people connect, perceive themselves, and navigate their daily lives. But beneath the surface of likes and shares, there's a growing concern: how deeply is this digital landscape affecting the mental health of our teens? While social media can offer comfort and connection for some, it also presents a complex array of challenges that can significantly impact their emotional well-being.

One of the most prevalent issues is the pervasive Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). Teens are constantly bombarded with curated glimpses into their peers' lives, showcasing exciting events, friendships, and achievements. This can lead to intense feelings of anxiety and inadequacy, making them feel like their own experiences are somehow lacking. As one study notes, "Constantly seeing idealized versions of others' lives can foster a sense of inadequacy and exclusion, leading to increased anxiety and depressive symptoms among adolescents" (Vogel et al., 2014). It's a tough feeling, but it's important to remember that everyone faces unique challenges, and true connection comes from finding your own people, not just following the crowd online.

Then there's the intoxicating allure of validation through likes and views. While a positive response to a post can feel affirming, basing self-worth on fleeting digital approval can be incredibly fragile. This pursuit of online popularity can overshadow real-life achievements and personal growth. As time passes, those "viral" moments fade, and what truly matters is the confidence built from within, not from external validation that vanishes as quickly as a trending hashtag. The constant need for external approval can become a significant stressor, as adolescents tie their self-esteem to quantifiable metrics of popularity (Primack et al., 2017).

Unfortunately, the anonymity and distance of online interactions can also fuel cyberbullying and the spread of negativity. It's easy to forget that behind every screen is a real person with feelings. Hateful comments and judgmental remarks, casually flung into the digital void, can inflict deep emotional wounds. Spreading negativity isn't "cool"; it's harmful, and it contributes to a toxic online environment that erodes empathy and respect among peers. Research consistently shows a strong correlation between experiences of cyberbullying and increased rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation among adolescents (Patchin & Hinduja, 2010).

Jealousy is another powerful emotion amplified by social media. It’s natural to feel a pang of envy sometimes, but relentlessly comparing your life, appearance, or possessions to others' can be detrimental. Social media often presents a highlight reel, not the full, messy reality. Allowing this constant comparison to cloud your perspective can hinder your ability to appreciate your own unique journey and cultivate a positive outlook on your future. Studies indicate that upward social comparison on platforms like Instagram can lead to increased feelings of envy and decreased self-esteem (Chou & Edge, 2012).

Beyond emotional tolls, there are also significant physical implications. The constant urge to be online often leads to excessive screen time, which can have tangible negative effects. For many teens, screen time limits imposed by parents can feel like a punishment, but there's a good reason for them. Staring at bright screens for prolonged periods can cause digital eye strain, headaches, and even contribute to computer vision syndrome (CVS) (Rosenfield, 2016). Your body signals when it needs a break, and listening to it is crucial for long-term health. It's not just about your eyes; prolonged sedentary screen time replaces opportunities for physical activity, which is vital for both physical and mental well-being.

And let’s talk about the allure of online gaming, a massive part of the digital landscape. Games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Minecraft can be incredibly engaging and fun, but their addictive nature is a real concern. While it’s wonderful to be passionate about a hobby, losing yourself for hours on end, day after day, can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and even impact your emotional regulation. As one expert noted, "Excessive gaming can displace other important activities, such as schoolwork, physical activity, and social interactions, leading to negative consequences for mental and physical health" (Kuss & Griffiths, 2012). Remember how our parents and grandparents talked about playing outside? There's a reason for that. Fresh air and movement aren't just for kids; they're essential for everyone. Stepping away from the screen, even for a short walk, can do wonders for clearing your head and boosting your mood.

Ultimately, social media, while offering undeniable benefits, also presents a profound challenge to teenage mental health. It’s a tool, and like any tool, its impact depends on how it's used. Understanding these potential pitfalls is the first step toward navigating the digital world in a way that truly supports your well-being.

When your parents can't pay: It freaks teens too

By Madison R.

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced a new layer of economic stress, with long COVID-19 proving to be a significant contributor to mental health issues. A study from the University of Georgia highlighted the financial strain experienced by Americans suffering from long COVID-19. As Leigh Hataway reported, "The researchers found that long COVID-19 is making it harder for people to pay their bills, buy groceries, and keep their utilities on. The study suggests much of that financial hardship is the result of lost jobs and reduced working hours. And the researchers found that the negative economic effects of the illness are present regardless of socioeconomic status."

This financial struggle is compounded by the chronic health problems associated with long COVID-19. Hataway further noted that "Almost 18 million Americans are living with long COVID. It’s a chronic condition triggered by the COVID-19 virus that can leave people suffering from extreme fatigue, memory problems, and a variety of other unpleasant and sometimes incapacitating symptoms for months to years on end." The study, which analyzed data from over 270,000 Americans, revealed that individuals in lower-income brackets and those without college degrees were disproportionately affected, intensifying the cycle of illness and financial distress.

The ripple effects of job loss and reduced income extend to fundamental needs like housing and food. Housing insecurity, including the threat of eviction, becomes a significant source of stress for families. While the provided text mentions student engagement in the context of academic support, the broader implication is that a stable home environment is crucial for overall well-being, which directly impacts mental health.

Food insecurity is another pressing issue. A Children and Youth Services Review article in ScienceDirect pointed out the struggles of education agencies in managing school meal programs, leading to "harmful practices, including lunch-shaming." These practices not only impede the program's goals but can also "negatively impact students’ social and emotional development." With increased levels of food insecurity, especially in the wake of the pandemic, ensuring students' nutritional needs are met is vital.

Beyond the social stigma, poor nutrition itself can contribute to mood disorders. As an article in the National Library of Medicine states, "A habitually poor diet (e.g., increased consumption of Western processed foods) is also independently associated with a greater likelihood of or risk for depression and anxiety." While the relationship between diet and mental health in earlier life stages requires further research, the link between poor nutrition and conditions like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder has been observed.

For teenagers, the path to higher education often introduces a new set of financial anxieties. College-related stress frequently stems from worries about tuition costs, accumulating debt, and the ability to afford their desired future. An iGrad article revealed that "More mental health problems are also linked to financial stress. The Student Loan Hero survey found that three-quarters of students isolated themselves due to stress. They also felt apprehension or dread, restlessness, irritability, tenseness, and depression."

Compounding these personal financial concerns is the pressure of social comparison. When teenagers constantly compare themselves to wealthier peers, it can lead to feelings of shame, inadequacy, and low self-esteem. Integrative Family Counseling & Psychology highlights that such comparisons "can lead to a range of negative emotions, including anxiety, depression, envy, and shame." This constant feeling of not "measuring up" can significantly erode self-worth and confidence, contributing to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. A study in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that teens who frequently engage in social comparison are more prone to experiencing feelings of inadequacy and depressive symptoms.

These pervasive financial and social pressures are leading some teenagers to lose faith in the traditional "American Dream." A New York Times piece quoted a respondent, Avalos, who starkly stated, "I don’t expect to retire. My Gen X parents are still working. I’m hoping global warming or water wars will take me out by then." This sentiment, echoed by others who express concerns about climate change as a barrier to future stability, reflects a profound sense of hopelessness regarding long-term planning and security. As Jay Girardot, 28, explained, "Regardless of the economy and what’s going on in politics and all of that — how realistic does it feel to dream of a future where, you know, the climate is trying to kill you?"

In conclusion, the various forms of stress—economic hardship, housing and food insecurity, college financial worries, and the pressures of social comparison—are taking a heavy toll on the mental well-being of teenagers, making their journey through adolescence far more challenging. It's clear that these systemic issues create an environment where young people feel prematurely burdened by anxieties typically associated with adulthood.

So you think we don't care about politics

By Eyden V.

Where do you stand? And, yes, I mean politically. Do you feel more aligned with the left or the right, or maybe somewhere in between? Before I even start, my goal is not to change your mind on what you think, but to explain how today’s current political climate affects the mental health of teenagers.

Let's start with how a person develops their political ideologies. It’s a lifelong process called "Political Socialization"; it’s the way that factors influence your political views. Let's look into what factors are affecting the political socialization of Generation Z. As you can imagine, in today’s world of social media, political rhetoric is everywhere. Political discussions are always happening because things are always taking place! I’m sure you can relate. Aren’t you tired of being bombarded with news titles like "You’re going to lose your healthcare because of this bill" or "Your rights are being taken away"? Now, imagine you are a teenager who is constantly online. Take a guess, how much political rhetoric do you think a teenager consumes? About 1 to 3 hours per day! If the overload of it all is stressful for adults, imagine how teenagers feel in their stage of mental development.

It is clear that today’s youth are growing up in a different socio-political environment than previous generations. Teenagers are exposed to various levels of trauma due to the uncertainty of living through times of increased political stress and social upheaval. This includes events like the COVID-19 pandemic (which was already covered in depth by my peer) and political-social conflict, which creates a collective adverse effect on childhood experiences, or ACEs. We have seen that children, in particular, are vulnerable to the impact of political unrest on their mental health. In regions like the Middle East, including Jordan, conflict-driven displacement, economic hardship, and rapid population growth contribute to their stress levels.

Another example is that LGBTQ+ youth have received increased hostility and discrimination in their environments, which, in turn, has led to diminished access to crucial support systems. This, of course, has led to heightened fear and anxiety, resulting from legislation that targets LGBTQ+ identities and spreads harmful rhetoric that paints them as dangerous or immoral. "Hostile school climates" caused by exacerbated political rhetoric lead to LGBTQ+ students feeling unsafe, experiencing harassment, and facing discrimination, impacting their overall ability to fully engage in school activities or attend school events. This increased public discourse and legislative activity may contribute to a rise in negative remarks about gender expression and a general increase in anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination related to self-expression.

The interesting thing to note here is that the fears experienced by queer individuals are described as "not hypothetical" but "grounded in the reality of what's happening and what's been promised to happen next." In other words, the reaction of anxiety comes from a "Fight or Flight" matter.

This increased anxiety on top of the buzz of political rhetoric on social media leads to extreme levels of mental unrest, lower self-esteem, and higher levels of depression, as well as an increased likelihood of suicidal ideation (the leading cause of death in teenagers).

We have also seen a decrease in support and resources in schools. One of these instances is a significant decline in various Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), the number of supportive staff, and inclusive curricular resources. This decline is a serious concern, as these supports are crucial for creating a safe and affirming school environment.

For youth of color, experiences of racism and discrimination, amplified by political discourse, contribute to stress. Students express personal worry and stress about the potential for violence and racism, especially towards family members. For example, a student worried about her Asian family experiencing racism and feared violence due to "radical right viewpoints." This concern was particularly amplified by events such as the violence at the Capitol, leading them to feel that some people believe that violence is acceptable.

Again, social media platforms contribute to negative mental health impacts through social media-based racism and discrimination. Exposure to direct and indirect discrimination online can worsen depressive symptoms and substance use problems in youth, particularly for adolescents of color. When young people of color seek online connections, they often encounter negative stereotypes, prejudice, and potentially traumatizing experiences, creating an additional avenue for exposure to racism, discrimination, and bullying. Studies show that adolescents of color experience online racial discrimination at high rates, leading to an association with depression, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms. A study found that Black participants disproportionately experienced content and account removals on social media platforms. These removals were often incorrect and related to expressing their marginalized identities, which did not violate site policies, highlighting how content moderation can inadvertently privilege majority identities and worsen systemic inequities.

In the school environment, students of color commonly experience both racist and anti-LGBTQ+ victimization and are more likely to experience multiple forms of victimization than White LGBTQ+ students. Native and Indigenous queer students also experience more hostile school climates than those from other racial/ethnic groups, while White students don't feel unsafe or experience victimization due to their racial/ethnic identity. Prior research suggests that youth of color may be at a higher risk of experiencing school discipline than their White peers. While many racial/ethnic groups report similar rates of school discipline, AAPI students generally experience less school discipline than most others, and White students experience less than Latinx and multiracial students.

60% of Gen Z believe that systemic racism is widespread in society, and over two in ten report feeling discriminated against "all the time," with this number rising to four in ten among ethnic minorities. Overall, this leads to an increase in anxiety and worthlessness.

So the question arises: why are different political parties targeting teenagers and, in turn, affecting their mental health as well as causing more division among them? It's called "affective polarization"; it’s the result of all the political rhetoric consumed on social media that influences teenagers (as well as adults) to take up an "it’s us vs. them" mentality. This results in a strongly emotionally rooted divide between members who are on opposite sides. This polarization not only increases fear and divides but also fosters an environment of hostility and (as I’ve mentioned) discrimination.

It’s hard to pinpoint where this polarization comes from, but fear-mongering certainly plays a big role in it all. Generational long-standing problems like racism have also been persistent in the overall polarization.

So, how is affective polarization affecting the interactions of teenagers? There is, in fact, an increase in political divide within Gen Z itself, particularly along gender lines, with young women leaning more liberal and young men increasingly leaning Republican. This aversion is influenced by issues such as reproductive rights and climate change for women, and the economy, podcasts, and a feeling of being "left behind" for men. Gen Z is also generally "less nationalist than previous generations," partly due to increased contact with other cultures. This cultural shift can contribute to different political priorities and increased division between generations.

In the school environment, affective polarization manifests significantly, creating a hostile learning environment. This happens through a combination of political rhetoric influencing schools' environment, direct legislative actions, and the resulting experiences of discrimination and lack of support.

A good example includes the frequent harassment and assault of LGBTQ+ students who attend in-person school. 83.1% experienced in-person harassment or assault based on personal characteristics like sexual orientation, gender expression, and gender. 60.7% were verbally harassed based on sexual orientation, and 57.4% based on gender expression. Transgender students generally experience the most hostile school climates and higher rates of in-person and online victimization based on gender and gender expression.

With all that being stated, it’s important to understand that we live in a democracy where everyone’s voice is counted by a vote. We must stand up against the destructive effects of affective polarization and the way it can impact the voting patterns of Generation Z. Gen Z’s political identity is complex, as they (we) adjust or hide their beliefs to avoid conflict or judgment from friends and family. While previously seen as a progressive cohort supporting social issues like LGBTQ+ rights, gun control, and climate change, a significant political divide has emerged, particularly along gender lines. The impact of fear and emotion in today’s political discourse is hard to process for all of us. At the end of the day, we are all just humans who initially seek to be social with one another. We don’t want to cause more division, but in order for us to come together as one, we need to take a step back from the chaos of it all and remember why we’re here in the first place: to help one another, to lift each other up, to embrace what makes us unique.

Because we’re stronger together, and we can’t let them take that away from us. Don’t ever forget that.

Bibliography

COVID-19: A first-hand account

Effects of social media: It's no secret

  • Chou, H. T. G., & Edge, N. (2012). "They are happier and having better lives than I am": The impact of using Facebook on perceptions of others' lives. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 15(2), 117-121.

  • Kuss, D. J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2012). Internet Gaming Addiction: A Systematic Review of Empirical Evidence. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 10(2), 278-290.

  • Patchin, J. W., & Hinduja, S. (2010). Cyberbullying and Self-Harm. Youth Violence and Juvenile Justice, 8(2), 102-119.

  • Primack, B. A., Swanier, B. M., Georgiopoulos, A. M., Land, S. R., & Fine, M. J. (2017). Association Between Media Use in Adolescence and Depression in Young Adulthood. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 161(2), 173-179.

  • Rosenfield, M. (2016). Computer Vision Syndrome: A review of the evidence. Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics, 36(5), 584-593.

  • Vogel, E. A., Rose, J. P., Roberts, L. R., & Forzano, L. B. (2014). Social comparison, social media, and self-esteem. Personality and Individual Differences, 60, 33-38.

When your parents can't pay: It freaks us out too

So you think we don't care about politics

Thank you to all those who've supported us through the writing process!

If you're interested in any of these young authors, contact us! If you'd like to support our mission, go to www.eydenvillarrealco.com/donate!

Eyden Villarreal & Co. © 2025. All rights reserved.

Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy

About

Our Mission

Meet Eyden

Brand Values

Our story

What we do

Contact

213 - 433 - 6594
info@eydenvillarrealco.com

Contact Form

Collab Inquiries

Press & Media

Complaints

Subscribe to our newsletter

Resources

Newsletter Archive

Student Blog

Network & Mentorship