The value of early mental health screening in adolescents

Mental illness in children and teenagers is not that uncommon, explains clinical psychologist, Darrian Long. "But often their mental health status goes unrecognised. The reason for this is usually the belief that children or teens don't have reasons to feel low, depressed, or suicidal, and that it's just a passing phase. More specifically with adolescents, their behaviour is commonly associated with changes in hormone levels and rarely do parents perceive something more problematic at play."

What is mental illness?

Mental health is the overall wellness of how we think, regulate feelings, and behave, says Joanna Kleovoulou, clinical psychologist and founder of PsychMatters Centre in Johannesburg. "Good mental health in children allows them to think clearly, develop socially, learn new skills and develop the resilience to cope with life's challenges. All of these developments help them to ultimately grow into secure, healthy adults who contribute to society."

Mental illness is defined as patterns or changes in thinking, feeling, or behaving that cause distress or disrupts your ability to function.

Common adolescent mental health conditions PsychMatters Centre treats include:

• Severe anxiety
• Panic disorder
• Clinical depression
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Addictions (particularly alcohol abuse or technology-related addictions such as gaming)
• Self-harm (self-mutilation, rage, aggressive outbursts, cyber and school bullying)
• Social anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from trauma such as sexual exploitation or rape
• Emerging personality difficulties such as borderline personality disorder

What are the statistics?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• One in seven teens have a diagnosable mental health disorder and the statistics are rapidly increasing
• Half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14 but most cases remain undetected and untreated
• Globally, depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are some of the leading causes of illness and disability amongst adolescents
• Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in 15 to 19 year olds

Factors affecting mental health include:

• Biology (neurotransmitters, brain defects or injury)
• Psychological trauma such as early neglect, severe emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, loss of a parent or loved one
• Stressful life events
• Trauma
• War
• High parental conflict
• Bullying
• Social isolation
• Experiencing discrimination and stigma
• Ongoing academic challenges
• Social disadvantage
• Poverty or debt
• Having a long-term physical health condition or chronic pain
• Severe or long-term stress
• Parental financial stressors or unemployment

The importance of mental health awareness

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of maintaining good mental health. It has also raised mental health awareness, which helps teach people that it is okay to share their experiences, vulnerabilities, and concerns about mental health.

Awareness and education help reduce the stigma which has been attached to mental health and increases the number of people who reach out for help when they are feeling isolated and overwhelmed.

How are mental illnesses diagnosed?

Joanna explains that psychiatrists and psychologists registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa can diagnose a mental illness.

"They are specifically trained to assess and evaluate your mental health using various tools." These tools may include clinical interviews, psychological testing, and collateral information with reference to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (5th edition) used globally.

Make good use of Discovery's additional cover for mental health screening with the WELLTH Fund

The Discovery Health Medical Scheme WELLTH Fund helps cover a comprehensive list of discretionary healthcare services for all scheme members, over and above the annual Screening and Prevention Benefit. This includes a mental health check-up for members of four years of age and older.

To unlock the WELLTH Fund, every member on your policy, above the age of two, must complete their Health Check, at an accredited Discovery Wellness Centre, Discovery Wellness Network pharmacy or Discovery Store, or on a Discovery Wellness Day. For dependants between the ages of two and eighteen, there is a Kids Health Check that has been specifically designed for this age group.

Learn more about what you can use your family maximum allocation of R10,000 in funding for here.

What are the dangers of untreated adolescent mental health illness?

The WHO states that the consequences of not addressing adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.

"There's no doubt that undetected childhood mental health problems have a long-term impact," says Joanna. Untreated depression and anxiety, for example, affects cognitive functioning such as memory, problem-solving and regulating your emotional responses (constructively dealing with conflict, controlling impulses, and making decisions). While children who don't get treated are also at risk of school failure, contact with the criminal justice system, dependence on social services, and even suicide.

"It's important to understand that adolescent mental health problems are very common - and very real. But they're also treatable and as with most illnesses, the earlier the better. Parents, caregivers, and teachers are usually the first to notice if a child has problems, so be vigilant and always trust your gut. Remember that your observations will determine whether you need to seek professional help for the long-term developmental outcomes for your child," she concludes.

HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PARENTS AND ADOLESCENTS:

• The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). www.sadag.org 0800 567 567
• PsychMatters Centre www.psychmatters.co.za for helpful tips or +2711450 3576 info@psychmatters.co.za (psychotherapy, parental guidance, group / family therapy, or Living Legend teen workshop to empower your teen with life skills)
• National GBV Helpline 0800 150 150
• LifeLine South Africa 0861 322 322
• Childline South Africa 0800 055055

DISCLAIMER