• Mental health issues among young people result from complex interactions between multiple risk and protective factors that influence psychological wellbeing.
• Risk factors are circumstances that increase the likelihood of developing mental health problems. Social media exposure creates unrealistic comparisons and cyberbullying experiences that trigger anxiety and depression. Academic pressure produces chronic stress leading to overwhelm and reduced self-esteem. Family conflict generates unstable home environments that contribute to emotional distress. Substance use compounds existing vulnerabilities by affecting brain development and decision-making capabilities. Social isolation removes essential support networks, resulting in increased loneliness and reduced coping mechanisms.
• Protective factors strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to mental health issues. Strong family relationships provide emotional security and unconditional support that buffers against external stressors. Peer connections offer belonging and understanding that helps young people navigate challenges. Physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood and reduce stress hormones. Effective coping strategies like mindfulness enable emotional regulation and stress management. School counselling services provide professional support and early intervention that prevents escalation of mental health concerns.
• The interplay between risk and protective factors determines individual outcomes, with protective factors capable of moderating the impact of risk factors when present in sufficient strength and number.

*Language highlighting the cause-effect relationship is bolded in the answer below.

• Help-seeking behaviours enable early intervention for mental health concerns because professional support identifies problems before they worsen.
• This occurs when young people access counsellors or psychologists at the first signs of anxiety or depression. As a result, minor stress doesn’t develop into severe mental illness requiring hospitalisation
• This demonstrates why early help-seeking prevents long-term psychological damage. The reason for this is that professionals provide specialised coping strategies young people cannot develop alone.
• This works by teaching evidence-based techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness.
• These elements work together to build resilience against future mental health challenges. Consequently, young people gain lifelong skills for managing emotions and stress.
• Seeking help creates connection with support networks, which reduces isolation and stigma.
• This happens when young people realise others share similar struggles through group therapy or peer support, resulting in increased confidence to discuss mental health openly.
• In this way, help-seeking transforms shame into empowerment and community connection.

• Health literacy provides young people with knowledge about the physical and mental effects of stress on their bodies and minds.
• Understanding stress responses helps young people recognise early warning signs and implement appropriate coping strategies before problems escalate.
• Health literate individuals can evaluate different stress management techniques and choose evidence-based approaches that suit their personal needs and circumstances.