For this assignment, you will develop and deliver a 10–15 minute seminar/workshop aimed at the teen or young adult audience on a specific health risk associated with the population. You will submit your presentation using the Panopto recording tool within Blackboard.

Title: Mental Health Issues among Adolescents: A Healthcare Practitioner’s Guide

Introduction: Hello everyone, and welcome to our seminar on mental health issues among adolescents. My name is [Name] and I am a healthcare practitioner/advocate. Today we will be discussing the risk factors, prevalence, and ways to address mental health issues among teenagers.

Overview of the Risk Factor: Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress are common among teenagers. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adolescents have experienced a severe mental health disorder at some point in their life. These mental health issues can have a significant impact on their lives, affecting their academic performance, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Contributing Factors: There are several factors that contribute to mental health issues among teenagers, such as genetics, trauma, stress, substance use, and social isolation. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the mental health of adolescents, with increased feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

Prevalence of the Health Risk: The prevalence of mental health issues among adolescents is on the rise. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24. Additionally, a recent study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that stress levels among teenagers have significantly increased in recent years.

Healthcare Practitioner/Advocate Role: As a healthcare practitioner/advocate, it is my responsibility to help identify and address mental health issues among adolescents. We can do this by raising awareness, providing education, and connecting individuals with resources and support.

Ways to Identify a Problem and Address the Issue: It is important to identify the signs and symptoms of mental health issues in adolescents, such as changes in behavior, mood, and sleep patterns. We can address these issues by promoting healthy coping mechanisms, providing access to mental health resources, and encouraging open communication.

Activity or Project: As an activity, we will take a few moments to reflect on our own mental health and the importance of taking care of our mental well-being. I encourage you to take some time for self-care every day, whether it be through exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Help and Support Resources: There are several resources available for individuals experiencing mental health issues, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and local mental health clinics. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.

Conclusion: In conclusion, mental health issues among adolescents are a serious health risk that can have significant impacts on their lives. As healthcare practitioners and advocates, it is our responsibility to identify and address these issues through awareness, education, and support. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Thank you for attending our seminar today.