Mental Health and Well-being in Middle and Late Adolescence

Mental Health

It isn't just about the absence of mental illness. It's about how we think, feel, and behave, and how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

Good Mental Health

• Feeling good about yourself.

• Coping with the normal stresses of life.

• Working productively.

• Being able to contribute to your community.

Middle Adolescence

Ages 14-17.

Late Adolescence

Ages 18-21.

Middle & Late Adolescence deal with:

• Identity issues (Who am I?)

• Peer pressure

• Academic stress

• Family expectations

• Social media influence

Psychological Well-being

It refers to having positive self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and the ability to manage emotions and relationships.

Signs of Good Psychological Well-being

• Self-acceptance

• Personal growth

• Strong relationships

• Autonomy (being independent)

• Purpose in life

Common Problems in Middle Adolescence

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Low Self-esteem

• Burnout

• Body Image Issues

Anxiety

Fear of being judged or not meeting expectations.

Depression

Feeling of worthlessness, loneliness, or failure.

Low Self-Esteem

Constant comparison to others, past failures.

Burnout

Academic or work overload, lack of rest.

Body Image Issues

Social media pressure, teasing.

What is usually observed in Middle Adolescence

• Tahimik or isolated

• Biglaang pag-iba ng ugali

• Hindi na nag-eenjoy sa dati nilang gustong gawin

• Pagka-praning or palaging worried

• Nahihirapan mag-concentrate sa klase

Mind Map of Mental Wellness of Middle Teens Include:

• Self-love

• Family and Friends

• Goal-setting

• Stress Management

• Digital Detox

• Physical Health

Plan for Staying Mentally Healthy for Middle Adolescence

1. Set Boundaries

2. Talk It Out

3. Practice Self-Affirmations

4. Journal Your Thoughts

Set Boundaries

Know when to take a break from school, social media, or toxic people.

Talk It Out

Open up to someone you trust (friend, counselor, family).

Practice Self-Affirmations

Remind yourself of your worth (kahit simple words like "I'm trying" or "I'm enough").

Journal Your Thoughts

Write down what you feel to release stress.

Common Problems in Late Adolescence

• Burnout

• Career anxiety

• Impostor syndrome

• Breakdown from toxic relationships

• Silent struggles

Possible Causes for the Common Problems in Late Adolescence

• Pressure to succeed or "have it all together"

• Financial stress (tuition, allowance, side jobs)

• Romantic heartbreak or friendship betrayal

• Academic overload or thesis burnout

• Feeling "left behind compared to others

What is usually observed in Late Adolescence

• Overthinking or sudden silence

• Pag-iwas sa friends or social gatherings

• Hiding emotions

• Change in sleep or eating habits

• Frequent breakdowns or irritability

Identifying Your Own Vulnerabilities in Late Adolescence

• Fear of disappointing others

• Worried about financial independence

• Pressure to be perfect

• Isolation

• Toxic positivity

Mind Map of Mental Wellness of Late Teens Include:

• Mental Breaks

• Purpose & Direction

• Support Circle

• Healthy Communication

• Growth mindset

• Self-compassion

Plan for Staying Mentally Healthy for Late Adolescence

1. Identify your Biggest Stressors

2. Create Calming Habits

3. Set Boundaries

4. Strengthen your Support System

5. Track your Progress & Be Kind to Yourself

Identify your Biggest Stressors

"What's making me anxious or overwhelmed lately?"

Create Calming Habits

Take 10 minutes to journal at night, Go for a walk after class, Listen to music or podcasts that relax me, Practice breathing exercises when anxious.

Set Boundaries

Limit time on social media, Avoid toxic people or draining conversations, Take breaks from schoolwork without feeling guilty.

Strengthen your Support System

Talk to a close friend weekly, Message a mentor or counselor when I'm struggling, Be honest with family when I need space or help.

Track your Progress and Be Kind to Yourself

Celebrate little wins (e.g., finished an assignment on time), Allow myself to rest without guilt, Speak kindly to myself instead of being self-critical.