Supporting Youth Mental Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and National Teen Self-Esteem Month. At the Y, we understand that we all have mental health. It shapes how we think, feel, and act each day. We all have a role in supporting mental health. When we care for ourselves, we also increase our ability to care for others. Strong communities prioritize mental health.
Growing up in today’s world feels like being caught in a whirlwind. It's noisy, fast, and full of uncertainty in ways that past generations never experienced. Despite broad improvement in social conditions, the mental health of our nation's young people continues to decline. The pressures of social media, the lingering effects of the pandemic, and the often divisive nature of today's social discourse impact their daily lives.
Social media, in particular, offers some benefits, but growing research raises serious concerns about how these platforms are currently designed, implemented, and used, particularly regarding their effects on today's youth. Nearly every teenager in the United States uses social media, yet there isn’t enough evidence to confidently say it’s safe for them.
Excessive and problematic use of social media can harm young people by disrupting important healthy behaviors. Many platforms are built to keep users engaged for as long as possible, which often leads to overuse. Additionally, extreme, inappropriate, and harmful content remains widely accessible on these platforms.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?
As parents, caregivers, and other trusted adults, we must prioritize the mental health and well-being of young people. It is critical in ensuring a stronger community, as they are the next generation of community leaders. At a time in life when they need support, stability, and a sense of belonging, many are left feeling isolated, often glued to their screens.
LIMIT SOCIAL MEDIA USE
Limiting social media use has been shown to benefit mental health. Cutting back on screen time can reduce stress, lift mood, and support emotional well-being. It also encourages more face-to-face interaction, which is key to feeling supported and connected.
GET CONNECTED TO THE COMMUNITY
Building strong, in-person connections can also help protect against the impact of stress and play an important role in social and emotional development. These relationships support healthy emotional growth and contribute to overall mental health.
At the YMCA of Greenwich, young people have a safe and supportive place to be themselves and connect with others. Being active and part of a community—especially offline—is one of the best ways to support mental health at any age. Getting involved in youth programs can give kids a sense of structure, belonging, and confidence during some of their most important years. To see what’s currently available, visit greenwichymca.org/programs/youth
In addition to offering youth development programs, fitness classes, and community events that build strong connections, our Y is also proud to be partnered with and home to the Jewish Family Services (JFS) offices, which offer behavioral health services for individuals and families of all ages.
Additionally, throughout the year, we host free educational lectures on mental health topics featuring trusted local experts, helping our community stay informed and supported.
LIFE HAS ITS CHALLENGES, BUT YOU’RE NOT ALONE!
When formal care is needed, the Y can help connect you to trusted mental health providers. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit chat.988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.