The Impacts of Career Decision Making Difficulties on the Mental Health of Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Career choice in adolescence, a key phase of identity formation, is complex and influenced by social pressures and low self-efficacy. These challenges can affect students' mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. This study explores how psychosocial factors relate to these difficulties to support more conscious decision-making. Objective: To analyze the relationship between professional choice and students’ mental health, identifying the main difficulties and proposing socio-educational strategies to support decision-making and emotional well-being. Methodology: This is a descriptive bibliographic study with a qualitative approach, based on a literature review conducted between 1999 and 2024. Descriptors such as “Mental Health,” “Adolescent,” and “Career Choice” were used in databases such as LILACS, SciELO, PubMed, and Web of Science. The analysis was based on nine thematic axes developed according to the specific objectives. Results and Discussion: Neurological immaturity, hormonal variations, and heightened social sensitivity render adolescents more susceptible to mental health disorders, particularly anxiety and depression. The pressure to make early career decisions, coupled with unequal access to information and excessive exposure to social media, exacerbates insecurity, indecision, and emotional distress. The absence of adequate support from family or school environments further aggravates this condition. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for public policies, educator training, and socio-educational initiatives to mitigate mental distress and enhance vocational guidance, beyond It emphasizes the importance of coordinated family-school support and targeted interventions.