What is mental health? According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is defined as a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being. It affects how people think, feel, and act. In recent studies by the SingleCare Team, 13 percent (970 million) of the world’s population struggles with mental health. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, 59 percent of the population has been affected mentally, according to the same studies. 

“I think that (mental health) is a big issue because I feel like we’ve seen an increased prevalence in mental health issues in students in recent years,” said principal Brent Harrell. 

In 2011, studies saw an 8.4 percent increase in mental health issues from children as young as 6 to as old as 17, according to childrensmentalhealth.org.

“I think social media has had a detrimental impact on teenagers,” he said. 

He would be right, according to studies done by Helpguide; social media does have an impact on mental health. 

Some students have different ideas on what causes the most mental health issues for themselves. 

“Worrying about how people will judge you (causes the most mental health issues),” said senior Monica Willson. 

This could also be related to social media. According to the same study done by Helpguide, social media impacts self-image and boosts insecurity. 

It is important to get help with mental health issues, according to counselor Kristy Martin.

“First of all, talk to someone you feel comfortable with,” she said. “Sometimes it helps to get things out. You’re not weak for seeking help.”