For Teens (ages 13-18)

Teenage years involve a lot of change, as you're developing life skills and becoming more independent.

New stresses and worries can come along with change. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if what you're feeling is normal, or if you're experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.

So many people have been where you are, and there are people who can and want to help you. Letting someone know how you're feeling is the first step.

Teens and Mental Health

If you have concerns about your mental health, you are not alone. According to the CDC's Youth Mental Health Status Data:

1 in 3, or 29% of U.S. high school students reported their mental health was not good most of the time or always during the past 30 days. Poor mental health included stress, anxiety, and depression.
2 in 5, or 40% of U.S. high school students reported experiencing symptoms of depression — felt so sad or hopeless every day for two or more weeks in a row that they stopped doing some usual activities in the past 12 months.
1 in 5, or 5.3 million adolescents ages 12-17 have a current, diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition, according to the CDC.

NAMI Teen Mental Health Survey

A NAMI survey asked teens ages 12-17 about their own mental health. The poll found that most teens are comfortable talking about mental health, but often don’t start the conversation. Learn more about the key survey findings on NAMI.org

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COVID-19's Impact on Youth and Young Adults: 2020 By the Numbers

Youth and young adults experienced a unique set of challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic — isolation from peers, adapting to virtual learning, and changes to sleep habits and other routines. It's important to understand the significant impact of these experiences on young people’s mental health — and the importance of providing the education, care and support they need.

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When To Ask For Help

Everyone has bad days. But it’s important to speak up if it feels like all your days are bad days, or if you’re struggling with feelings, emotions, thoughts or behaviors that:

Are too intense or cause too much distress.
Last more than two weeks.
Interfere with daily life, school or work.
Cause difficulties sleeping, eating, concentrating, enjoying things, or relating to others.

Lead you to withdraw from friends and social activities.
Are accompanied by the misuse of alcohol or drugs, thoughts of self-harm, or aggressive behaviors.
Repeat in similar patterns.
Lead to dangerous behavior or risky decisions.

If you have concerns about your mental health, or are experiencing symptoms that are affecting your everyday life, it’s important to tell someone how you’re feeling.

Who To Talk To

Talk to a parent, guardian, or adult you trust, including close family friends, teachers, school counselors, coaches, club leaders or faith leaders. Sometimes, an older sibling, grandparent, aunt or uncle is easier to talk to than a parent.

This should be a person who:

Gives good advice when you ask for it.
Respects your need for privacy so you can tell them anything.
Lets you talk freely about your feelings and emotions without judging, teasing, or criticizing.
Helps you figure out what to do the next time a difficult situation comes up.

Learn tips for finding a trusted adult to talk to.

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Tips On How To Ask For Help

Asking for help is hard. It’s normal to feel uncertain or awkward about sharing something personal, like concerns about your mental health. A little planning can make the conversation easier, and you’re likely to get better results.

Visit NAMI.org for tips on how to talk to your parents or guardian.

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NAMI Jacksonville Programs & Resources for Teens

NAMI Jax Teen Support Groups
In-person support groups for teens (ages 13-17) looking for non-judgmental support, compassion, and education about recovery.

NAMI Jacksonville HelplineFor non-emergency guidance on mental health and substance use resources and support in Northeast Florida, call the NAMI Jax Helpline at 904-323-4723 or email helpline@namijax.org.

NAMI Jacksonville Resource DirectoryThis PDF contains a comprehensive listing of support services, resources and programs available in the Northeast Florida area.

NAMI Jax: Go Lime GreenNAMI’s Go Lime Green: Mental Health Matters program brings mental health awareness into the Lime Light during athletic events at Northeast Florida high schools.
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NAMI Jax: Ending The SilenceDesigned for students, this 50-minute presentation includes facts, statistics, warning signs, and how to get help for themselves or a friend.

More Resources for Teens

NAMI Teen and Young Adult HelpLine
National resources and support
M-F, 10 am - 10 pm
800-950-NAMI (6264)
Text: “Friend” to 62640
Webchat: nami.org/help
Email: helpline@nami.org

NAMI Teen & Young Adult Resource DirectoryFind information about national mental health resources and support for teens and young adults.

Finding A Trusted AdultReaching out to someone about your mental health can feel overwhelming, embarrassing or just hard. Use this guide to help you choose the right person to confide in.

Social Media and Mental HealthIt’s important to understand the impact social media can have on your mental health. Learn about protecting your mental health while using social media.
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Are You Being Bullied?If you or someone you know is being bullied, there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe. Learn more at stopbullying.gov.

How to Help a FriendA one-pager that gives suggestions on how to support a friend struggling with a mental health condition.

NAMI Say It Out LoudCreated by young people for young people, NAMI Say It Out Loud is a free online card game that will bring you closer to your friends through conversation prompts about life, relationships, and mental health. Play Now >

Seize the AwkwardBe the friend who listens: Starting a conversation about mental health doesn't need to be uncomfortable, and it can make all the difference. Check out resources to learn how to support a friend – or get help for yourself.

During School BreaksSchool breaks are great opportunities to focus on your mental health and rest up. Learn how to make the most of your school breaks.