Understanding Mental Health in Immigrant Teens (Ages 13-18) from 2000 to 2024

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand how acculturation stress, educational barriers, and economic challenges affect the mental health of immigrant teenagers. The objective is to understand how these factors influence the development of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders and to identify support systems that can help reduce their impacts. This study intends to provide insights into immigrant youth's mental health outcomes and discover effective therapies by examining recent and fundamental information. A qualitative documentary analysis was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, academic journals, and case studies sourced primarily from Google Scholar and EBSCO Host. The data collection concentrated on articles published within the last ten years to balance recent findings and foundational research. A descriptive content analysis combined different sources and identified common themes and trends, such as educational challenges, the value of family and community support, and acculturation stress. The study revealed that among immigrant teenagers, acculturation stress, language barriers, discrimination, and financial constraints are strongly linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. However, it has been demonstrated that robust support systems within families and communities can lessen these effects while boosting resilience and overall well-being. The study emphasized the importance of culturally relevant education and access to mental health treatments for immigrant youth. Finally, this study underscores the significance of tailored policies and support systems to address the unique difficulties that immigrant adolescents face. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of acculturation and how economic stability, and social integration affect mental health outcomes.