INTRODUCTION
Welcome everyone, my name is Steffi- I am a clinical child psychologist currently working as a senior retention officer for the university of Suffolk. I happen to be a child enthusiast and a mental health advocate for young people. I am please for us to have this discussion today.
Today, we will discuss the challenges faced by youth in coping with anxiety and depression and explore effective strategies to overcome them.

Understanding Anxiety and Depression

• Anxiety and depression are common mental health challenges among young individuals.
• Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness, while depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
• It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms to seek help and support early.

Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression Among Youth

• Statistics show that anxiety and depression are on the rise among young people worldwide.
• Around 25% of youth experience anxiety disorders, and approximately 20% face depressive episodes during their teenage years.

Causes of Anxiety and Depression in Young people.

• Biological factors (genetics, brain chemistry).
• Environmental factors (stressful events, family dynamics, peer pressure).
• Social factors (bullying, social isolation, academic pressure).
• Psychological factors (low self-esteem, negative thought patterns, negative self-concept and intrusive thoughts).

The Importance of Seeking Help

• Encourage people to talk about their feelings with someone they trust, such as close friends, mentors, counsellors, family whom they consider as safe spaces.
• Seeking professional help from mental health specialists can be instrumental in overcoming anxiety and depression.
• No one is an island, whenever you feel like you are unable to handle any challenge or situation on your own, lift up your hand and wave there’s always someone who would grab a hold of you and help you ashore.

Strategies for Overcoming Anxiety and Depression

1. Self-Care and Healthy Habits
• Encourage regular exercise, as it releases endorphins and reduces stress.
• Promote a balanced diet to support overall well-being.
• Emphasize the importance of sufficient sleep for mental and physical health.
• Do one thing a day for you just one thing that makes you absolutely happy.
• Prioritize your peace of mind and most of all choose you.


2. Mindfulness
• Application of mindfulness techniques to help manage anxious thoughts and emotions.
• Be mindful and be present- anxiety means you are thinking about what wold happen in the future and that is causing you to be on edge and in a low mood, and depression means you are focusing on something that may have happened in the past so where is the room for the present? Be mindful focus on the here and now and what can be done in the moment.


3. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• CBT is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that helps individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
• Encourage people to seek CBT from trained professionals.
• Therapy is not a replacement of prayer/ faith, it’s a guide, somewhat a handholding gesture from a licensed professional to help you navigate the woes of this life by reminding you of who you are and how your thoughts can influence your behaviour and characteristically your attitude.
• Your therapist is not your friend, your therapist doesn’t make decisions for yo, they rather help you see things in the perspective that is most healthy whilst supporting you to make the necessary decision for the best outcome of your life.


4. Social Support
• Engage in positive social interactions with friends and family.
• Join support groups or clubs to connect with like-minded individuals.
• Have time outside of your own space for a change, go to a concert, a play anything outside the norm for you and experience the joy of socialising.
• Misery loves darkness and solitude and will fester if given the chance so go outside, mingle, sit in the midst of children they say the darnest things and this will make your heart happy.


5. Limiting Screen Time
• Excessive screen time can contribute to anxiety and depression.
• Encourage people to take breaks from screens and engage in outdoor activities.


6. Building Resilience
• Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, and it plays a crucial role in overcoming anxiety and depression.
• Encourage people to develop resilience through problem-solving, positive thinking, and maintaining a support network.


7. Reducing Stigma Around Mental Health
• Promote open discussions about mental health to reduce stigma.
• Educate others about the importance of empathy and support for those facing mental health challenges.
• This platform and others that encourage this kind of discussions is highly applauded and appreciated as it helps take the message out there.


8. The Role of Church in supporting people overcome anxiety and depression
• Urge churches to promote a culture of compassion and acceptance towards individuals facing mental health challenges.
• Encourage open conversations about mental health to normalize seeking help.
• Explain the therapeutic benefits of prayer and meditation in coping with anxiety and depression.
• Share relevant scriptures that promote peace, hope, and healing.
• Integrating mental health education into sermons, Bible study sessions, or workshops.
• Encourage understanding mental health from both scientific and spiritual perspectives.
• Advocate for partnerships with mental health organizations or professionals to conduct workshops or provide resources for church members.

Conclusion

• Overcoming anxiety and depression is possible with the right support and strategies.
• Encourage people to seek help, practice self-care, and build resilience to lead fulfilling lives.
• Let’s work together to create a stigma-free environment that fosters mental well-being for all.