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Teen mental health facts and statistics

There are many different categories of mental health illness, and those who struggle with any of them do not do so by choice. A variety of factors can cause or lead to the development of mental illness in teens. Mental health looks different for everyone, and the associated symptoms can make everyday, mundane tasks overwhelming and stressful.

Adolescent Wellness Academy is a teen mental health treatment center in Davie, Florida. Contact us today to learn more about our teen mental health and substance abuse treatment in South Florida. 

of lifetime cases of mental illness begin at 14 years of age.
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An Introduction To Teen Mental Health

Despite common misconceptions and beliefs, disorders related to mental health do not selectively target adults. Mental illness is becoming increasingly common among teenagers throughout the United States and globally. Recent studies indicate that approximately one in five teens between ages twelve and eighteen suffer from at least one diagnosable mental health disorder.

A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology in 2019 indicates the teen mental health crisis continues to grow. In fact, mental health professionals and medical community members have referred to the current rising trend in teens seeking (or needing) mental health treatment as an epidemic. The same study provided a few troubling facts relating to the increase in mental health issues between 2009 and 2017. 

Cases of major depression among teens ages sixteen and seventeen rose by an overwhelming
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Increased feelings of anxiety and hopelessness among people ages seventeen to twenty-five.
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One out of five girls ages twelve to seventeen had experienced major depression within the last year.
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Increased suicide rate among teens ages eighteen to nineteen between 2008 and 2017
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Youth Mental Health Facts

A teen’s life is often thought to be more carefree and less stressful than that of adults. While their lives have their fair share of ups and downs, for the most part, teens are not saddled with the same stress-inducing responsibilities as adults. Given the pervasive nature of this thought process, it may come as a surprise to know that research has shown approximately 50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness will develop before the age of seventeen. Unfortunately, teen mental health issues are often overlooked or written off as “typical teen angst” that will go away on its own. 

It is difficult to point to one singular cause responsible for the stark decline in teen mental health. The impact of various environmental, genetic, and situational factors varies depending on the person; therefore, one cause does not fit all. However, a few common factors have been found to contribute to mental health difficulties in almost every case.

Busy Schedules And Pressure To Succeed

Teens today are under significantly higher pressure to perform academically and in extra-curricular settings. School and other activities, such as sports, can be a huge source of stress and lead to mental health problems. 

Social Media

Social media can be a blessing and a curse for teens and adults alike. In recent years, there has been growing concern about social media’s effects on teens’ developing brains. Research indicates there is a strong link between heavy social media use and teen mental health problems. Online social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat can inadvertently put undue pressure on teens by putting forth unattainable body images, status symbols, or other successes attainable by only a select few. 

Underdeveloped Coping Skills

Many teams have not developed the coping skills necessary to effectively handle triggering events or unpleasant situations that life can present. Maladaptive coping skills such as overeating, consuming too much social media, or engaging in other risky behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse can lead to mental health illnesses if proper responses to triggers are not developed.

Relationship Difficulties

Teen relationships, be they friendships or romantic relationships, are often weighed down by stressors that can either produce or aggravate adverse mental health symptoms. Due to their nature, teen relationships are ever-changing, and the above-referenced lack of adequate coping skills needed to handle the emotional disruptions that come from the dissolution of a teen relationship (especially a romantic one) can often result in symptoms of teen depression or anxiety. 

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for the mental health symptoms that arise from some of the factors mentioned above to be written off as ordinary, everyday mood swings attributable to adolescent development. It is essential to look deeper into the cause of the behavioral or emotional changes a teen may be experiencing to determine if their symptoms could indicate something more profound.

If you are concerned about a teen who has recently shown altered behavior or altered emotional symptoms and you are worried that a deeper mental health condition may be to blame, don’t hesitate to get help from Adolescent Wellness Academy.  

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of lifetime cases of mental illness begin at 14 years of age.

Common Teenage Mental Health Issues

Depression and anxiety are the two most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses among teens. Disordered eating, personality disorders, and substance-use disorders are also common.

Depression

Major depression affects everyone differently. However, it is typically marked by overwhelming and pervasive feelings of sadness, which can impair one’s ability to concentrate or engage in everyday activities. Recent data shows an excess of 11% of adolescents and teens report experiencing at least one major depressive episode within the last year. Also, the rate of young people with depression has increased year over year since 2012. Today, depression and bipolar disorder affect approximately 14% of teens between the ages of thirteen and seventeen.

It is important to note there are gender differences pertaining to depression diagnoses. Teen girls are more than two times more likely to experience depression than boys of the same age group.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are also common among teens. Approximately one in three teens meet the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5) by the time they reach age eighteen. There are several types of anxiety disorders, but phobias and separation disorders are those seen most often. Like depression, anxiety disorders are also more common in females than males. 

Eating Disorders

The most common eating disorders seen in teens ages thirteen to eighteen are Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge-eating disorder. Although adolescent girls are at a higher risk, almost three percent of teens will be diagnosed with an eating disorder. Depending on the severity of the disorder, treatment is essential, as life-threatening medical conditions can result.

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Teen Mental Health Statistics

Some statistics related to more common mental health disorders are presented in the above paragraphs. In addition to anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, teens face a host of other mental health challenges, including substance use disorders, other mental health conditions, and teen suicide. 

Approximately 40% of teens have used marijuana in the past year. An additional 14% have used an illicit drug other than marijuana, and 12% have misused a prescription drug.

56% of teens report using alcohol in the past year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 11% of American children have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Between ages fifteen and twenty-five, 100,000 adolescents and teens will experience their first psychotic episode. Psychotic disorders include bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

The rise in mental health disorders among teens has shown a direct correlation to the increase in teen suicide. Recent data shows suicide as the second leading cause of death among teens ages fifteen to nineteen. Only accidents outpace the current suicide rate. As recently as 2017, the Centers for Disease Control reported the suicide rate among teens was 10.6 deaths for every 100,000 teens.

of teens reported using alcohol this past year.
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Drug & Alcohol Addiction In Teens

Teens who are struggling with the emotional difficulties brought about by mental health disorders will often turn to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism. This form of maladaptive self-medication often provides short-term relief but can lead to disastrous long-term impacts. In the short term, alcohol and drug use can help to mitigate the symptoms of hopelessness, anxiety, and other negative thoughts. In the longer term, chronic use begins to exacerbate these issues and often leads to addiction and dependence. In teens, experimentation often escalates to teen addiction at a much faster rate than seen in adults, and the progression from experimentation to addiction is more likely in teens with co-occurring mental health disorders. According to a study conducted in 2016, almost half of teens with a mental health disorder will be diagnosed with a co-occurring substance abuse disorder if their mental health condition is not treated.

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How To Help Your Teen Who Is Struggling With Mental Health Issues

Having a teen who is struggling with mental illness can be challenging. It is important to keep in mind there are ways to make the difficulties less disruptive to both their lives and the functioning of the family dynamic. The first thing you must do is take notice of your teen’s symptoms. This includes paying attention to changes in mood, behavior, and emotions. Seeking treatment early is essential, as mental health conditions often get worse without therapeutic intervention.

Other ways to help your teen include learning all you can about their mental health condition, working with your school to ensure they receive the appropriate services, and working with your child to “find a new normal.”

Finally, treatment must be a consideration. Many evidence-based medications and therapy models are used to treat mental health conditions in teens. Choosing the right combination of treatments and post-therapeutic support is essential to recovery. The best treatment choice will vary from teen to teen. Even those with the same diagnosis will have different symptoms, needs, and objectives for their treatment outcomes. Don’t let mental health disorders ruin your teenager’s future. Consider treatment opportunities at an outpatient rehab center for teens, such as the Adolescent Wellness Academy.  

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Kimberly Geller

Kimberly Geller - Primary Therapist (Davie)

Kimberly is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University. Kimberly creates a nurturing and secure environment where clients can freely explore their emotions and embark on their journey toward healing and growth. Kimberly specializes in client-centered approaches that helps tailor her therapeutic methods to meet unique needs and goals. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship, she empowers clients to develop effective coping skills and achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey. Kimberly ensures that each person she works with feels understood and valued throughout their therapeutic process.

Zainub Fatta - Therapist (Davie)

Zainub holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University and has extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in adults, teens, and children. She specializes in treating diverse mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, anger management, etc. She also has a lot of experience treating addiction and substance abuse problems within various treatment centers. Zainub views mental health from a systemic perspective, emphasizing the significance of how one’s environment and childhood impacts them, which is why she also specializes in family therapy and couples therapy, when it comes to achieving holistic well-being. Passionate about empowering individuals to find their voice, she considers it a privilege to listen to their vulnerable stories and provide the support they need. Her therapeutic approach focuses on uplifting clients by building their confidence and challenging them to break old, negative patterns of thinking and behavior.

Allyson Timmons - Assistant Clinical Director (Davie)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Allyson Timmons is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the Assistant Clinical Director of our Davie location.  She is Florida born and raised, and has her bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in Counselor Education with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University. She has been working in the mental health field for over fifteen years in various capacities. She is a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida and enjoys helping clients and supervisees alike. Allyson works with adolescents and adults that struggle with mental health issues, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. Treatment modalities and evidence-based techniques Allyson utilizes eclectic approaches and tailors treatment plans to clients based on their needs. She takes a more direct, supportive, honest, and solution-focused approach. Some of these modalities include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Humanistic approaches. Allyson empowers her clients to make change for themselves.

Krystine Garay

Krystine Garay – Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Krystine Garay is a licensed mental health counselor, marriage family therapist, and certified telehealth practitioner. Raised in Miami, Florida, and a member of the Hispanic community, she provides services in both English and Spanish. With five years of experience, she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, focusing on domestic violence, substance abuse, family conflicts, co-occurring disorders, and mental health issues.
Krystine holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University and a master’s degree with dual specializations in mental health and marriage and family counseling from Barry University. She is pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in health psychology from Carlos Albizu University.
Her clinical experience includes rotations at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she assisted children with co-occurring disorders using mindfulness exercises, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and dialectical-behavioral techniques.
Krystine believes in the power of personal growth and progress, and she is dedicated to fostering positive change in her clients’ lives.

Alyssa Mencucci – Therapist (Miami)

Alyssa is a dedicated master’s level clinician specializing in providing compassionate
therapy for adolescents and children facing severe mental health challenges. With a
deep understanding of the developmental stages and psychological needs of
adolescents and children, Alyssa offers expertise in addressing trauma-related issues,
guiding individuals through the complexities of grief, managing anxiety and depression,
navigating personality disorders, and supporting those dealing with PTSD. Alyssa uses
evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, play therapy,
and trauma-focused interventions to create a safe and nurturing environment for
healing. Alyssa believes in a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the
unique needs and circumstances of each individual. She creates a safe and nurturing
environment where adolescents and children can explore their emotions, develop
coping skills, and embark on a journey of healing and growth.

Dr. Jacqueline Pablos – Clinical Director

Vulnerability and connection are at the heart of Dr. Pablos’ therapeutic approach. As the
Clinical Director for Adolescent Wellness Academy, she aims to create a safe space for
clients to embrace their emotions and express their needs in healthier ways. Dr. Pablos
specializes in treating depression, anxiety, body image issues, bullying, eating
disorders, and self-harm behaviors using techniques like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and
ACT.
With extensive training in hospitals and counseling centers, Dr. Pablos has a strong
background in helping teens and adults with co-occurring mental and physical health
disorders. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology, with specialized training
at institutions like Florida International University, Jackson Memorial Hospital,
Clementine Monte Nido, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Kimberly

Kimberly Carlesi – Therapist (Miami)

Kimberly, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling from Florida International University, specializes in supporting individuals
with eating disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. She creates a safe, nurturing
environment for her clients’ healing journeys, drawing from diverse therapeutic
modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. With a
focus on trust and collaboration, Kimberly empowers clients through personalized
interventions, fostering self-awareness and resilience.

Melanie Medrano – Therapist

Melanie has a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their paths to self-discovery and healing. Equipped with a diverse skill set, Melanie has received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. 

At the heart of Melanie’s therapeutic approach is a desire to provide clients with a safe, nurturing space where they can empower themselves with the tools necessary to navigate life’s complexities. Melanie finds joy in witnessing clients emerge from challenging circumstances, stepping into the light from what once felt like a dark place.  

Cristina Arango – Clinical Supervisor

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Benjamin Ziegler LMFT – Therapist

With a heart for guiding families through challenges and fostering connections, Benjamin is committed to creating a therapeutic space where each family member feels heard, understood, and supported. His genuine enthusiasm for helping families thrive is a driving force in his approach.

Benjamin is highly qualified professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He also has a certification in narrative therapy, where he skillfully utilizes storytelling to empower individuals and families on their mental health journey, guiding them to reshape their narratives and discover fresh perspectives.  

Celanie Chenet – Therapist

Celanie is a mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Celanie is dedicated to providing supportive care through various modalities and has a robust background in trauma-informed care, Living in Balance, and Protective Action Response.

Celanie’s primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a specialization in Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Brief Solution-focused therapy (BSF). With a commitment to helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve positive outcomes, Celanie brings a wealth of expertise and a caring approach to the therapeutic process.   

Michael Panzeca – Program Manager

With over 40 years of dedicated experience in the field of mental health and addiction, Michael has established himself as a pivotal figure in the development of transformative treatment programs. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping various nationally recognized treatment centers across the United States. Michael’s visionary approach also led to the creation of the Adolescent Wellness Academy, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of young people.Michael’s unique blend of professionalism and creativity sets him apart in his field. Drawing from his side profession as a stand-up comedian, he infuses humor and originality into program design, making therapeutic processes more engaging and effective. His ability to connect with parents and teens on a deeper level—balancing candor with compassion—has made him a sought-after counselor and mentor.Certified by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium as an Addiction Counselor, Michael’s credentials are further bolstered by his training in Gestalt Therapy from The Cincinnati Gestalt Institute. His extensive training and hands-on experience equip him with the skills to address complex mental health and addiction issues, providing holistic and empathetic support to his clients.Michael is particularly passionate about working with families, helping parents and teens navigate the challenges of addiction and mental health with a blend of honesty, humor, and heartfelt understanding. His approach not only facilitates healing but also empowers individuals to thrive in their personal journeys.

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky – Medical Director

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.  

Jenn Jacoby LMHC – Clinical Director

Jenn is a highly qualified mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Jenn is not only a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) but also holds certification in Child and Family Studies.

Jenn’s extensive training includes being a Certified Trainer by DJJ for Trauma Responsive and Caring Environment, expertise in Aggression Replacement Training (ART), Impact of Crime, Thinking for a Change, Living in Balance, Cannabis Youth Treatment, Coping with Stress: A CBT Program for Teens with Trauma, Adolescents Coping with Depression, Motivational Interviewing, Protective Action Response, and being a Certified Peer Reviewer for Monitoring and Quality Improvement (MQI).

 In terms of modalities, Jenn is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-focused therapy, Strength-based therapy, Narrative therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. With Jenn’s diverse skill set and commitment to professional development, she brings a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling.