March is Teen Mental Wellness Month, and Tioga County Public Health is calling attention to the rising number of teens struggling with depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness.
In a recent local survey from Tioga County, more than a third of teens reported feeling depressed most days, and many said life sometimes doesn’t feel worth it.
Some common causes include academic stress, peer pressure, bullying, relationship issues, and challenges at home.
Parents and caregivers can make a powerful difference by modeling healthy habits, building strong relationships, creating stable home environments, encouraging positive peer connections, and ensuring regular check‑ups.
Tioga County Public Health Educator Katie Wait said, “I think there’s definitely still a little bit of stigma surrounding mental health, but I think that that’s improving, you know, especially amongst our young people. I think they are recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health, and you don’t have to be going through something to take care of your mental health.”
For more information and tips on talking with your teen, you can visit tioga.crediblemind.com.
You can also reach out to the Tioga County Mental Hygiene Department.
