Mental health conditions are common among teens and young adults. 50% of all lifetime mental illnesses develop by age 14 and 75% develop by age 24.

A mental health condition isn’t your fault or your family’s fault — these conditions develop for complicated reasons that researchers are only just starting to understand. But we do know a lot about how you can live well with a mental health condition. You have the power to improve your mental health. And it starts with one conversation.

Experiencing mental health symptoms can be scary and confusing. That’s why speaking up and asking for help is a sign of strength. It can be hard to know what to say, but start with something like, “I’m not feeling right. I think I need help. Can I talk to you about it?”

Whether you reach out to a parent, coach, teacher or religious leader, a trusted adult can help you figure out what’s next. Mental health services and supports are available and the earlier you access them, the better.

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