For Young People Looking For Help

Mental health problems don't only affect adults. Children, teens and young adults can have mental health problems, too. In fact, three out of four people with mental health problems showed signs before they were 24 years old.

If you're thinking about harming yourself get help immediately.

What Does “Mental Health Problem” Mean?

Are you having trouble doing the things you like to do or need to do because of how you feel—like going to school, work or hanging out with friends? Are you having a rough day? Have you been feeling down for a while?

Everyone goes through tough times, and no matter how long you've had something on your mind, it's important that you talk to someone about it. Talk to your parents or a trusted adult if you experience any of these things:

• Can't eat or sleep
  
• Can't perform daily tasks like going to school
  
• Don't want to hang out with your friends or family
  
• Don't want to do things you usually enjoy
  
• Fight a lot with family and friends
  
• Feel like you can't control your emotions and it's affecting your relationships with your family and friends
  
• Have low or no energy
  
• Feel hopeless
  
• Feel numb or like nothing matters
  
• Can't stop thinking about certain things or memories
  
• Feel confused, forgetful, edgy, angry, upset, worried, or scared
  
• Want to harm yourself or others
  
• Have random aches and pains
  
• Smoke, drink, or use drugs
  
• Hear voices
  

Where can I get help?

You are not alone. Lots of people have been where you are or are there right now. But there are also lots of people who want to help you.

If you're thinking about harming yourself get help immediately. You can also call the  National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

Another way to get help is by talking to someone you trust. This could be a parent, family member, teacher, school counselor, spiritual leader or another trusted adult, who:

• Gives good advice when you want and ask for it
  
• Respects your need for privacy so you can tell him or her 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 More About Young People And Mental Health

Is your mental health, or someone else's, affected by bullying?
Learn what to do if you or someone you know is being bullied.

Once you know the facts about mental health problems, you can share them with other people. Remember to treat people with mental health problems with respect.