The more you know about how they are linked, the better you can help your loved one.

The rates of mental health challenges among young people are soaring, with 1 in 4 teens being diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

📅 May is Mental Health Awareness Month ([link removed] ) and the Partnership will be providing useful information and resources relating to mental health and how it can be associated with substance use and addiction. Recognizing risk factors early on can help families step in with support and help prevent issues down the line.

Mental Health and Substance Use

Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder can be risk factors for substance use... and substance use can increase the risk for these and other mental health problems.

- Alcohol and other substances mask symptoms such as feeling anxious, depressed or irritable – which can make mental health problems worse over time.

People who struggle with a mental health challenge may use substances for many reasons, including to reduce:

- Stress
- Emotional or physical pain
- Anxiety
- Sleep issues

What are some warning signs that a loved one is struggling with their mental health?

- Use of substances such as alcohol, nicotine or marijuana
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Frequent mood swings
- Intense fear or worries that get in the way of daily life
- Prolonged feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Difficulty focusing for prolonged periods of time

How can I let my child or loved one know that they can talk to me about their mental health struggles?

- Offer to listen
- Validate how they are feeling
- Ask how you can best support them
- Offer to find help if needed

Visit our Substance Use + Mental Health Guide ([link removed] ) for more information on the relationship between mental health, substance use and addiction.

Have more questions? Our expert has answers.

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is coming up – if you have a question for our helpline specialist relating to your child’s mental health, submit them through our Instagram story ([link removed] ) TODAY! Then, on May 8th, one of our helpline specialists will answer some of your questions on our Instagram stories.

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If you would like to speak with a helpline specialist directly, you can always visit our Get Support page ([link removed] ) .

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