Youth behavior health is a major concern in today's society. It is estimated that nearly 15 million children and adolescents in the United States have some form of mental health disorder, and nearly 5 million suffer from a serious mental health disorder. (1,2)
This can lead to poor mental health, poor academic performance, and even criminal behavior. (3)
Fortunately, there are many organizations working to support youth behavior health, including YEDA (Youth Education and Development Academy). We are a non-profit organization, located in the Chicago South Suburbs, that provides youth development programs and mentorship to help adolescents live happier, healthier, more satisfying lives.
At YEDA, our programs are designed to promote positive life-skills, develop emotional intelligence, and provide guidance and support to young people.
Through the inherent mentorship that's embedded in every program we offer, YEDA works to provide a positive environment for young people to learn and develop their potential. YEDA programs also help young people build confidence and self-esteem, and foster an environment of acceptance and respect.
Research has shown time and time again, that mentorship can have a positive impact on youth behavior health. At YEDA, we've seen this first hand.
According to a study conducted by Rana et al. (2013), mentoring programs for youth can have positive effects on both their mental and physical health outcomes. The study found that mentored adolescents reported improved mental health, with lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, the study reported that mentored adolescents showed improved overall health and well-being, as well as improved social and academic functioning. (4)
Similarly, a study conducted by the University of Cambridge (2014) found that mentors can help youth build resilience, self-confidence, and social skills. Mentoring can also help to increase the self-esteem of the mentored youth, as well as provide a safe and trusting environment in which they can explore and reach their goals. (5)
Finally, a study conducted by the University of Michigan (2016) showed that youth mentoring can help improve academic performance in youth. Mentoring was found to reduce dropout rates, improve academic performance, and goal attainment, increase graduation rates, and improve career development. (6)
Overall, studies have shown that mentoring programs can have a positive impact on the mental and physical health of youth which is why at YEDA, we focus so heavily in incorporating mentorship into everything we do.
Through our program, events, and basketball travel teams, we provide support and guidance to the young people in our communities, helping them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
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