What Is a ‘Menty B’ and Why Are Teens Saying It?...

How the term is helping to open up conversations about mental health and why experts say parents should listen closely.

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Fact checked by Sarah ScottFact checked by Sarah ScottDeciphering teen slang is an ongoing struggle many parents have. Some words are frivolous and fun like "rizz," but others like “menty b,” may warrant further attention. “Menty b” is a slang term signifying a “mental breakdown,” according to Know Your Meme, a website defining memes and other viral content. It’s often used to describe an overwhelming feeling or when someone is experiencing stress over something.The term has gone viral on social media with some videos on the topic racking up millions of views. Using the term is not necessarily indicative of an actual mental breakdown, nor does it taunt people who are experiencing one. Some feel it's bringing more attention to mental health issues, which have been on the rise for teens. But not everyone is a fan of the term. Yet, it's important for parents to pay attention.What Parents Should Know About ‘Menty B’Mental health experts generally welcome this trend, which takes something that was once taboo and makes it relatable. “While these phrases can be a way for teens to express feelings of overwhelm and distress, they don't necessarily indicate a severe mental health crisis,” explains Cameron Caswell, PhD, an adolescent psychologist and mom of a teen.TikToker Anthony Voulgaris, who goes by the handle undiagnosedadhd9, explains in this video that when someone says they are having a “menty b,” it’s about them starting a conversation about their mental health and trying to relate to others who may be experiencing a similar stressful situation. “The other day I was talking to my friend and she said, ‘I had a few menty bs this week,” he says. He believes the term helps to take the stigma out of having a discussion about mental health struggles.Not everyone agrees, as one viewer wrote in the comment section, “I hate it. It desensitizes us and normalizes these disorders to the point where people don’t think they need treatment because ‘Everyone has these.’” “It’s truly both a good and a bad thing,” another commenter wrote. There is a fine line between relatability and trivializing mental health concerns, cautions Dr. Caswell. While the term represents a valuable opportunity for parents and caregivers to initiate open conversations about mental health, she says it’s always important for parents to listen and take a supportive approach regardless of the severity of the issue. @undiagnosedadhd9 Were actually so funny #mentyb #depresso #depressed #genz ♬ original sound - Anthony Voulgaris When a 'Menty B' Should Not Be DismissedUsing trending terms like "menty b” and “emo,” can help adolescents normalize their emotional state and reduce feelings of isolation and fear, explains Dr. Caswell. Teens, and even tweens, may use the term to describe a minor situation without facing any mental health issues. But it's important for parents to pay attention to signs that a teen using it may be dealing with something more serious.Mental health is one of the most important issues for teens, with one in seven 10- to 19-year-olds having a mental disorder, according to the World Health Organization. Depression, anxiety, loneliness, and stress are four of the leading causes of mental health issues in Gen Z teens.“There has been a national state of emergency declared for child and youth mental health,” explains Marli Gelfand, MA, LPC, ACS, Assistant Vice President for Behavioral Health Services at Monmouth Medical Center, which introduced its first Adolescent Crisis Diversion Program, a short-term outpatient program that focuses on meeting the emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric needs of those between the ages of 5 to 17 and their families.Seventy-five percent of mental illnesses emerge between ages 10 and 24, she says, which makes it an important window of opportunity to support young people. On a positive note, Gen Z is more likely to talk about and report their mental health concerns, more than any other generation, according to a 2019 survey by the American Psychological Association. “Adolescents, particularly those that identify as female, have been increasingly more forthcoming and comfortable talking about their mental health struggles,” explains Dr. Casewell of her own patient population. “Research suggests they are better equipped to identify their struggles and feel empowered to seek support through therapy, counseling, or online resources."Loneliness, she says, is a prevalent theme among the teenagers she works with who report feelings of being misunderstood at home or at school which leads them to isolate. She also notes a growing reliance on technology and social media, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hindered the development of critical social skills for some. All of this, mixed with the fact that being a teenager is awkward and hard, creates a significant challenge.“Recognizing their need for guidance and support in building these skills, while acknowledging the biological factors at play, is crucial,” Dr. Caswell explains.Signs that may indicate your teen is having mental health struggles may include:Mood changes, including irritability, anger, and/or tearfulnessChanges in eating habits, weight, sleep, or other everyday patternsLoss of interest in things they loveWithdrawal from family, friends, and communityUnusual academic struggles Signs of substance abuseHow Parents Can HelpWhile studies show they are more open to talking about mental health issues, many teens struggle with how to communicate their concerns with their parents. “As a parent, you do not always need a solution or to 'fix' what is going on for your child but to listen and acknowledge, then ask, 'Is there something that you feel would be a help to you?’" suggests Gelfand. “Sometimes just being present and hearing them out and validating that this stress is real is all that is needed."Dr. Caswell also says that parents, despite their best intentions, can often contribute to their teen's stress and anxiety because of a disconnect in their approach. “Parental overreactions to expressed distress or misinterpretations of silence as indicative of struggle can further strain communication,” she explains. She also says that some teens report feeling unheard or disbelieved when they assure their parents they are OK, fostering a sense of helplessness.If a teenager starts talking about having a "menty b,” or exhibits other signs of distress, Dr. Caswell offers several tips for parents on how to communicate:Stay calm and listen: She advises against peppering teens or tweens with too many questions which can add more stress. Instead, ask open-ended questions.Offer support, not advice: Offering guidance as they navigate challenges fosters resilience and self-reliance in the long run, according to Dr. Caswell. Build connection through acceptance: This includes a sense of understanding their child's unique perspective and validating their feelings.Understand their social world: Dr. Caswell says the key lies in helping them develop a healthy relationship with technology, striking a balance between online interaction and real-life connection. Normalize emotions and teach coping skills: Recognize that emotions are a natural part of life, not problems to be fixed. She says this may involve teaching them coping mechanisms like relaxation techniques or journaling.Show you're a safe space: Build trust with your teen through consistent actions and respecting boundaries. This includes not pressuring them into conversations when they aren’t ready to talk.Dr. Caswell advises parents to be patient with their process and prioritize understanding their teens or tweens. She also stresses that parents should not be afraid to seek professional help when it is needed, specifically when there are noticeable, drastic changes in their child's behavior. “Early intervention can make a significant difference,” adds Dr. Caswell. If you think your child is experiencing a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national, 24/7 hotline that can connect you with a trained crisis counselor by phone or online chat. Call or text 988 to connect to a trained crisis counselor 24/7 or use the live online chat option. For more Parents news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Parents.

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