The landscape for teenagers has changed drastically in the last couple of decades. Teens now face unique challenges like social media and increased mental health concerns.
Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, make up the bulk of teens now. They’re often thought of as the most tech-savvy and connected age group in history (although Generation Alpha will likely surpass them when they come of age). The reality however, is that they are often the most disconnected, facing a range of unique pressures that didn’t exist for previous generations.
The climate for teens now can carry significantly greater risks. If you want to support and protect your teen as they navigate the hazards of modern-day life, stick around.
Social media and its grip on teen lives
Of course you expected social media to be mentioned. Its dangers go beyond the time your teens spend on it. All social media platforms, from TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat to YouTube, Facebook and X, pose threats to your teen, especially in the area of self-esteem, identity and sexual health.
Social media use has been linked to higher levels of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues among teens. Such is its dangers that the Australian government is currently formulating policies to ban children from using social media.
At its “least harmful”, social media “simply” encourages comparison. Teenagers see others living what appears to be “perfect” lives, filled with curated moments that don’t reflect their reality. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy and depression.
The constant need for approval and validation through likes, comments and shares can also lead to an unhealthy obsession with body image, girls and boys alike (see more below). This can exacerbate issues related to eating disorders, self-esteem and even self-harm. Combine all of this with cyberbullying, and the social media landscape provides the perfect storm for a teen’s mental breakdown.
At its worst, social media platforms are working tools for criminals adept at posing as innocent teenagers with the aim of extorting them for money or compromising images.
Teenagers are particularly vulnerable because they are trying to discover who they are and where they fit in the world. The raging hormones of puberty can also cause a lot of confusion for teens who may encounter porn online. For many teens, saying “yes”, even once, can lead them to form dangerous connections that result in repeated cycles of trauma. The intense feelings of shame and guilt can drive teens to avoid asking for help and eventually consider suicide as their only option.
Identity crises and body image
The teen years are a significant time for identity formation. While it’s normal for young people to struggle with their identity, the rise in discussions surrounding gender and sexuality today can leave them feeling overwhelmed and confused. Conflicting messages from society, their peers and online influencers can lead to an identity crisis as they struggle to figure out who they are.
The way teenagers perceive their bodies significantly impacts their identity. While teen girls may face pressure to be thin, young men are often encouraged to be muscular, aggressive and emotionally stoic.
With increased pressure from influencers constantly promoting the idea of achieving a “perfect” body, teens now feel they need to conform to certain physical standards to have worth or love. Many young people may feel inadequate and depressed as they struggle to meet society’s ideals, resulting in mental health struggles, which we will explore next.
The rise of mental illness in teens
Psychological distress is a real experience of many teens, but few feel comfortable to talk about it. Mental health issues in teenagers are on the rise and it’s not just due to social media and being constantly online.
This is the generation most impacted by COVID-19. On top of feelings of anxiety related to the virus, disruptions to normal developmental experiences such as school, socialisation and extracurricular activities have all led to a spike in mental health issues. Studies also suggest teens are still struggling with the emotional aftershocks of the pandemic, which may include prolonged social anxiety and a sense of uncertainty about the future.
High school can also be an extremely stressful time during the teenage years. On top of academic pressure, teens also have to juggle extracurricular activities, friendships, relationships and family dynamics.
The expectation to excel in all these areas can leave little room for relaxation or self-care, contributing to the increase in teen mental health issues. Young adults who feel stuck in a cycle of stress can turn to self-medication and addictions as a way of coping. A history of trauma or abuse is also a crucial driver of mental health crises.
Substance abuse and addiction
Alcohol and drug use, particularly vaping and marijuana, has become increasingly popular among young people despite the known dangers. Even on social media platforms, substance use gets glamorised, with some influencers openly promoting drug and alcohol use to their millions of followers.
The drugs teens consume today don’t just come in the form of pills and vapours. It can even be pornography, video games, food, shopping or social media. Many teenagers now spend hours living in a fake reality at the expense of their physical health, social lives and academic performance.
Family instability
With more and more families breaking apart or living in cold co-existence, teenagers can become trapped bystanders, watching their world come crashing down. Unless parents are intentional in supporting their children while and after separating, feelings of abandonment, loneliness and insecurity can become the norm.
Sadly, teens who come from homes that are not nurturing and safe are more likely to turn to risky behaviours such as drug use, early sexual activity and delinquency.
How parents can help
Parents play a crucial role in supporting teens as they navigate the complex challenges of today’s world. It’s essential for parents to recognise the unique stressors teens face and develop strategies to help them build resilience, manage their mental health and approach these issues with confidence.
Here are several ways parents can support their teens through these challenges:
1. Create a stable and supportive home environment
Ask for your teen’s input on how to make home a place where they feel comfortable and welcome. Have honest conversations. Practise listening to their thoughts and feelings. This will foster good communication and allow them to feel heard and understood. Be a supportive, steady presence in their life, letting them know they can always turn to you, while also encouraging them to form positive friendships.
2. Set healthy boundaries for tech use
Establish tech-free zones in the house, such as during meals or family time, to promote face-to-face interaction and reduce screen dependence. Set reasonable limits on social media and gaming, and encourage digital detoxes to help your teen focus on real-life experiences. Remember you need to be the example.
3. Promote positive body image and self-esteem
Encourage your teen to focus on their intrinsic worth as a human being. Model healthy body image and self-care by avoiding negative self-talk.
Psychologist Collett Smart shares how to have a body image discussion with our children.
4. Support mental health and emotional wellbeing
Watch for signs of distress in your teen, such as irritability, withdrawal or poor school performance, as these could indicate mental health issues. Encourage professional help and teach stress management techniques like mindfulness, exercise or creative outlets to help them cope with daily pressures. Have open, honest conversations with your teen about the risks of drugs, alcohol, unsafe relationships and peer pressure, providing factual information without scare tactics. Monitor for signs of addiction and intervene early if needed, offering support and seeking professional help when necessary.
If you or your teen need further help:
- Kids Helpline (Australia)
- Youthline (New Zealand)
- Lifeline (Australia)
- Lifeline (New Zealand)
Life beyond the teen years
Encourage your teen to stay physically active to support their mental health and reduce stress. Help them explore creative outlets like music or art, which can provide emotional release and boost wellbeing. Support them in having a healthy school-life balance to prevent burnout and promote a well-rounded lifestyle. Prepare them for life beyond high school by teaching practical life skills, setting realistic goals and supporting their mental health as they become more independent.
Remember, with support, love, safety and consistent boundaries, they will make it through the challenging teen years. And so will you.
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