|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
By Akshaj Singhal
Over the last decade, suicide rates have increased by 35% in adolescents.
One of the main causes is an act done by teenagers targeted at teenagers: social rejection.
The increase in suicide rates correlates to the rise of social media.
The internet, and especially social media, perpetuates unreasonable social standards; there are reminders everywhere online, including social media, that an individual has to look or be a certain way.
These societal standards push teenagers to work harder to fit in, be better and succeed in the eyes of their peers, even if they are at their absolute limit.
81% of teens are faced with social rejection, and the pressure to be “perfect,” Social rejection is faced by millions of teens daily, and, sadly, it is something that cannot be spotted, since it works quietly through social media, and through peers. It could be presented as cyberbullying, or setting unrealistic standards for oneself, as well as comparing lives and accomplishments to others.
According to Pew Research, over 41% of teenagers are faced with the pressure from peers all around to fit in. They are faced with the burden of not being able to be themselves. To a teenager, social approval and being able to “fit in”, is one of the major issues that matter in their lives. It is the thought of, “Am I not enough?” that keeps them in this cycle of constant scrutiny for just a scrap of approval, or for them to be deemed “worthy.”
Adding to this, because the brain regions responsible for emotional regulation and impulse control continue developing into the mid-20s, and the amygdala is highly active during adolescence, teens are more prone to react emotionally.
The thought of being unworthy goes straight to the brain, figuratively and literally, and can cause teenagers to have a mental breakdown.
As the American Psychological Association states, humans feel the need to be a part of a group. And if denied this, could be faced with anxiety and other mental health conditions. Peer approval means so much to a teen, that not being able to receive acceptance, or deemed too “unfit” can mess with their psyche, could cause them to engage in self-harm or, if affected by it so much, they could potentially lead them to die by suicide.
Suicide affects hundreds of teens and their families and friends. And, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), it is reportedly the second leading cause of death in youth, and the third leading cause in teens.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.
This article was written as part of the The Junior Journalist Program allows high-school students an opportunity to report on topics important to them and communicate with their peers while receiving training in journalism and learning to think critically about information. To support the program and this publication’s participation in it, make a donation.
Director Sanwong faces challenge from committee chair Henry for East Bay Parks Ward 5September 13, 2026 8:41 pm