If you need to talk to someone right now about suicide or any mental health issue in Pinellas, Hillsborough or Hernando counties, call 211. In all other areas, call 911.

The teen years are tough. We are under stress to be liked, do well in school, get along with our family and make important life decisions. Most of these pressures are unavoidable and worrying about them is natural. But if we are feeling extremely sad, hopeless or worthless, these could be warning signs of a mental health problem.

Mental health problems are real, painful and can be severe. They can lead to school failure, loss of friends, or family conflict.

To find help, discuss your concerns with your teacher, school counselor or others such as a family doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, religious counselor or nurse.

We have put together information here on TeenVillage.org to assist you in dealing with these day-to-day stresses and to better your state of mental health. If you would like to submit information that you feel could be helpful, please contact us or visit our forums and leave a message for one of the moderators.