extra activities and depression

A psychologically healthy person is involved in their community as well as the world around them. Our cultural landscape is overflowing with information and distractions. At face value, many of these distractions seem harmless. But the cumulative effect can cause people to be deeply dissatisfied.Especially young people.

Teenagers are in the midst of transitioning between childhood and adulthood – trying to make sense of the world beyond their home while simultaneously building their budding identity.

Today, adolescents face unprecedented pressures. They have to grow up fast and are not always psychologically prepared to handle the pace and the pressure. When this happens it can lead to a number of mental health issues – such as depression and anxiety.

Teenagers with strong behavioral health are capable of handling this transition into adulthood with minimal difficulty. On the other hand, teenagers prone to depression and other mental health issues often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Generally speaking, this well-worn path leads to experimentation with drugs and alcohol.

Now more than ever it is critical to teach adolescents to value themselves. By understanding their inherent value, they will better be able to see how they can add value to their surroundings.

A great way to build value and self-esteem is through involvement with extracurricular activities.