The imperative conversation surrounding mental health, particularly for the youth in our community, remains at the forefront. The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) in El Paso asserts that it is never too early to broach the subject of mental well-being.
Isidro Torres, the executive director of NAMI, emphasizes that “50 percent of lifetime mental health cases begin by the age of 14, and 75 percent by the age of 24.” Recognizing the importance of early intervention, Torres underscores that signs of mental health struggles may not always be overt; sometimes, they manifest in subtle behaviors rather than verbal outbursts.
“When you look at teen mental health, some signs to observe include withdrawal, self-isolation, prolonged changes in mood, or engagement in riskier behavior. These are indicators that we should pay attention to and inquire if there’s anything going on or if we can offer assistance,” Torres advises.
Parents, family members, and any individuals regularly interacting with teenagers are encouraged to approach those showing signs of concern with a supportive attitude. Torres emphasizes the significance of transparency and honesty in these discussions, asserting that such an approach can go a long way.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, we’ve observed an uptick in conversations surrounding mental health. We hope this trend continues. Discussing with teens the stigma, cultural aspects, and diverse backgrounds can influence perceptions. By fostering open and honest conversations early on, we aim to diminish the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health,” Torres expresses.
Beginning on Tuesday, Feb. 20, NAMI will launch a new NAMI Basics class. This six-week course specifically caters to parents or guardians caring for individuals under the age of 22 facing mental health challenges. The program aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate and support the mental well-being of young individuals effectively.
