Think about that, for every 100 girls out in the hall during class exchange, 33 of them have seriously contemplated ending their life.
In recent years, mental health conversations have become more mainstream, yet the crisis facing teenage girls remains staggering. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
One in three high school girls has seriously considered suicide. This statistic is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of the deep emotional struggles young women face today.
The Weight of the World on Young Shoulders
Adolescence has always been a difficult time, but today’s high school girls are navigating unprecedented challenges.
Social media pressure, academic expectations, family stress, and world events contribute to overwhelming anxiety and despair.
Some of the key factors influencing teen girls’ mental health include:
– Social Media and Cyberbullying: Constant exposure to unrealistic beauty standards, online harassment, and the pressure to maintain a curated digital persona have taken a toll.
– Academic and Extracurricular Stress: The demand to excel in school, sports, and extracurriculars leaves little room for rest or self-care.
– Sexual Harassment and Violence: Studies show that many young women experience harassment, assault, or unhealthy relationships, further impacting their sense of safety and well-being.
– Mental Health Stigma: Despite progress, seeking help for mental health issues is still stigmatized in many communities, preventing girls from accessing the support they need.
The Role of Trauma and Emotional Well-being
Many of the struggles these young women face are rooted in unresolved trauma. Whether it’s childhood adversity, relational abuse, or systemic pressures, these experiences shape their emotional and mental health. As a therapist, I see firsthand how trauma manifests in depression, self-harm, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation. Without intervention, these struggles can become life-threatening. Don’t make the mistake of dismissing them and don’t ignore the signs: Persistent low mood, frequent crying or expressions of feeling trapped or hopeless, avoiding friends, family and once enjoyed activities, loss of interest in appearance and hygeine. unexplained anger, agitation, and/or frustration. Depression often manifests as anger and irritability. Changes in academics, friendships, future plan making, appetite changes, sleep changes, complaints of headaches, stomach aches, and avoidance to name just a few.
How We Can Help
While these statistics are alarming, they are also a call to action. There are ways we can support teenage girls and create a world where they feel safe, valued, and hopeful:
- Normalize Mental Health Conversations
Parents, educators, and peers should encourage open conversations about emotions and struggles. Simply asking, “How are you really feeling?” can create space for honesty and vulnerability.
-
Challenge Unrealistic Expectations
We must push back against the unrealistic standards that social media, schools, and society place on young women. Teaching girls that their worth isn’t tied to perfection is essential.
-
Promote Trauma-Informed Care
Rather than viewing self-harm or emotional distress as “attention-seeking,” we need to recognize them as symptoms of deep pain. Trauma-informed therapy (like EMDR, which I specialize in) can help young women process and heal.
-
Increase Access to Support
Schools, workplaces, and communities need to prioritize mental health resources. More counselors, hotlines, and safe spaces can make a difference.
-
Teach Emotional Regulation Skills
Therapeutic approaches like DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) help teens develop coping strategies for distress. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can help reframe harmful thought patterns which Pathways therapists can help you with.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, know that help is available.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free, confidential resource that provides support 24/7.
Teenage girls deserve more than survival—they deserve joy, safety, and hope.
CALL for a Pathways therapist
TODAY!!
Let’s work together to create a world where that is possible.
