Recognising mental illness in young people

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Extract from the article: Mental health problems do not only affect adults. Children and adolescents can also suffer from them. It's a widespread problem. Mental health disorders are more common among young people than you might think.

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Mental health problems do not only affect adults. Children and adolescents can also suffer from them. It's a widespread problem. Mental health disorders are more common among young people than you might think.

Several mental health disorders are commonly observed in young people. « Among the most common are anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD), depression, behavioural disorders, psychosis, sleep disorders, eating disorders and drug addiction », says Pr Kolou S. Valentin Charles Dassa, Stress Counselor/Psychiatry at CHU Campus de Lomé.

This has a major impact on their lives

Mental illnesses are the most debilitating health problems in the world. In young people, they can impair development and functioning at home, at school, with other young people and with the general population. Left untreated, they can have multiple consequences: « poor school results, drug use, risky behaviour, poor personal hygiene, unemployment, crime - all factors that increase the risk of morbidity and premature mortality », stresses the specialist. In fact, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the 15-24 age group.

Certain signs can be helpful

As young people with a mental illness rarely seek help, it is important to be alert to the signs that could indicate that the child is suffering from such a problem.  According to Professor Charles Dassa, the signs to look out for include « a drastic drop in school performance, mood problems (irritability, anger, rage or extreme sadness), major changes in sleeping or eating habits, detachment from friends and family, loss of interest in favourite activities, lack of concentration, physical problems (headaches, stomach aches, etc.) and negative or suicidal thoughts ».

Mental disorders can be treatedFew young people receive help. « Encourage children to discuss their problems. Listen carefully to what he or she has to say.  Ask teachers, babysitters, friends and family if they have noticed any changes in the child », advises the doctor. If a child or teenager is suspected of having a mental health problem, it's vital to get help quickly. Early intervention can prevent the problem from worsening and lessen its impact on the child's development. « Ideally, the young person should be assessed by a health professional, such as a doctor or psychiatrist who treats children or adolescents », recommends the specialist.In all cases, it is important to obtain a precise diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. The latter may include medical treatment, psychotherapy, training and education programmes (social, learning or behavioural training).

Abel OZIH