Teen Mental Health: Supporting Young Women
Teen mental health has always been a critical concern, but recent research has shown that adolescent girls are facing unprecedented levels of emotional distress. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, bringing existing issues to the surface and amplifying the challenges that young women experience today. According to a 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey, 57% of high school girls reported "persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness" in 2021, up dramatically from 36% in 2011. This is nearly double the rate of boys, where only 29% reported these feelings during the same year.
At Botaitis Therapy Group, we are committed to providing targeted support to teen girls who are struggling with their mental health. Our associate therapist, Danielle Sharkey, specializes in working with adolescents, helping them navigate the pressures of this challenging stage of life.
Key Mental Health Concerns for Teen Girls
Adolescence is often a time of increased vulnerability to mental health issues. Young women, in particular, are more likely to experience conditions like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders due to a mix of biological, social, and psychological factors. Hormonal changes during puberty, social media exposure, academic pressure, body image concerns, and evolving relationships with peers and family all contribute to the complex landscape of teen mental health.
Additional Mental Health Struggles Teen Girls Face Today
Pandemic Isolation: According to research, girls were hit particularly hard by the social isolation brought on by COVID-19. In a study conducted in 2021, 70% of girls reported that they "very much" missed seeing people during the pandemic, compared to only 28% of boys. This lack of social connection has been linked to increased feelings of loneliness, sadness, and anxiety.
Social Media: While social media can be a source of support, it also exacerbates feelings of inadequacy and competition, especially around physical appearance. Constant comparisons and the pressure to present a "perfect" image online can deeply affect a young woman’s self-esteem and psychological well-being. This pressure can lead to disordered eating habits, such as restrictive eating or over-exercising.
Global and Social Issues: Many teens are increasingly aware of broader societal challenges like climate change, social upheaval, and political instability. These issues contribute to feelings of uncertainty about the future, adding another layer of stress for young people who are already dealing with the normal pressures of adolescence.
Check out this 60 minute episode on teen mental health problems exacerbated by COVID.
Danielle Sharkey's Unique Approach to Working with Teens
Danielle’s therapeutic approach is designed to help teens manage overwhelming emotions, improve their mental health, and build resilience. Here's how Danielle supports her clients:
Today’s modern young woman is drowning in seas of uncertainties, external pressures, and unrealistic expectations. Therapy is an island of refuge where she can rest, find her footing, and recharge her internal compass.
As a therapist, Danielle is a guide & a companion, but first & foremost is a human. Showing up as her authentic self and encouraging her clients to do the same is the true magic. Her authentic self is usually in sweatpants, occasionally trips over her words, and her emotions are always all over her face. She sometimes speaks in metaphor, definitely wants to see the screenshots, and is genuinely stoked to be here.
Danielle believes each woman is her own expert with an innate capacity to feel, heal, grow, and thrive. She tells her clients that the best thing they can do in life is to know themselves- especially the “cringe” parts. With curiosity, compassion, and a healthy dose of humor, she shows them how to work with instead of against themselves.
Sessions are a laid-back, supportive space for young women to develop self-awareness, nurture self-acceptance, and remember how to trust themselves. In time they feel safer in themselves, in relationships, and in the world. It’s truly an honor & a joy to share the journey- the laughs, tears, & all the feels along the way.
Supporting Young Women in Their Journey
The mental health crisis facing teenage girls is serious, but early intervention can make a huge difference. At Botaitis Therapy Group, we believe in the power of therapy to help young women navigate their teenage years with greater confidence and clarity. With therapists like Danielle Sharkey, we strive to provide compassionate, individualized care that meets each teen where they are, helping them build a foundation for lifelong mental health and wellbeing.
If you’re interested in learning more about how therapy can support your teen, or if you have specific questions about working with Danielle, please reach out to us at 805-636-9890 or fill out this form.
