Adding to original program proposal

Program Proposal: Enhancing Mental Health Support for Adolescents Yirisabel Enriquez Human Service Program Administration in Human Service -HUS3650 Dr. Miller 01/22/25 The ever-increasing occurrence of mental health illnesses such as nervousness, depression, and stress are affecting young adults’ health all over the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) (2021) states that a mental disorder affects more than one in seven adolescents, most of whom are never diagnosed or treated. This proposal addresses the lack of availability and effectiveness in mental health aid for adolescents, considering the urgency of mediation. Adolescent mental health issues have been linked to economic and social disparities, harassment, academic pressure, and the ubiquitous use of social media, according to research (Lewis et al., 2011). Studies have shown that early-stage interventions and comprehensive programs combining counseling and peer support could be good alternatives. Gorman (2024) adduced evidence supporting the school-based mental health programs that significantly relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. This study endorses implementing a targeted approach to the mental health requirements of adolescent youth. Attention should be paid to adolescent mental health in developing resilience and mitigating abiding risks. Long-term lows, such as low academic performance, suicide, and substance abuse, may result from mental stress experienced by adolescents. However, adolescence is a rapidly developing emotional, social, and mental life stage where several challenges may exist to become respectable adults. Thus, this program suggests school-based resources consisting of mental health education individually or in a group setting and family involvement. Community stakeholders, mental health professionals, and educators collaborate to devise a broad and collated tactic appropriate for addressing the unique requirements of adolescents. Many factors will determine the effectiveness of such programs. Political, economic, social, and technological considerations inform the experiences of prospective clients. For instance, funding policies, social and economic inequities, and technologies available for telehealth interventions may impede mental health service access (Farrer et al., 2013). Advances in technology, including online mental health resources and virtual counseling platforms, have ushered in new opportunities for engagement but may also create additional disparities for those with limited access to digital devices or the internet. Social stigma concerning mental health compounds access, highlighting the need for widespread education and advocacy to create a supportive environment (WHO, 2021). Assessing the needs and strengths of the community is essential to tailoring the program to local needs. Surveys, focus groups, and interviews with adolescents, parents, and educators may shed light on the mental health challenges faced nowadays and the resources readily available at that time (Lewis et al., 2011). Through community mapping, the existing support networks and partnerships that could enhance program performance may also come to light. Involving stakeholders in the planning phase creates trust and increases the chance of success for the program. The aspect of culture and diversity is key to the effective program impact. Teenagers from diverse backgrounds may have their own experiences of mental health issues, along with their level of discomfort in seeking support. Such a program must use a culturally adaptive approach and consider language access issues (Adebayo et al., 2024). For instance, hiring culturally competent staff and offering services in several languages can help promote inclusivity and accessibility. Where an environment caters to respect for different values and beliefs, it further increases receptiveness, thereby adding to its contextual relevance and effectiveness. Some impediments could exist for the clients and the program, from inadequate funding to inexperienced staff, leading to questions about program sustainability. Stigma and misinformed perceptions about mental health are potential barriers to engagement (Gorman, 202...