Are the teens alright?Are the teens alright?
All In The Mind
Your teenage years can be tumultuous, but did you know that half of all mental conditions in adulthood emerge by the age of 14? And on top of regular stressors like school and relationships, teens today have social media to contend with – and a little something called the global coronavirus pandemic. On All in the Mind this week, we speak to experts – and teens – about how young people fared last year.
29:04•26 Jun 2021
Are Teens Coping? Exploring Mental Health Challenges
Episode Overview
- Half of all mental health conditions emerge by age 14.
- Social media and pandemic add stress to teenage years.
- Connection with family is crucial for adolescent well-being.
- Mental health literacy helps teens understand their emotions.
- 'Mickey vs the World' uses humour to address mental health.
“How I pictured it was like this big storm behind me, like chasing me.”
Curious about how teens are coping with mental health challenges? This episode of 'All In The Mind' takes a deep dive into the struggles faced by young people today. With social media and the pandemic adding to the usual teenage pressures, it's no wonder that mental health conditions often emerge by age 14. Vanessa and Jasper share their personal journeys, highlighting the tumultuous nature of adolescence and the importance of support systems.
Vanessa's story begins at age eight, when anxiety and depression started chasing her like a storm. Through candid reflections, she discusses her initial resistance to diagnosis and the role her mum played in providing comfort. Jasper, on the other hand, found solace in his relationship with his nan, navigating high school challenges and coming out as trans with surprising ease.
The episode also features insights from Emerson Osterberg, a psychologist who explains how puberty and environmental factors can trigger mental health issues. Amanda Green from Kids Helpline reveals the surge in young people seeking help during the lockdowns. The episode is a poignant reminder of the importance of connection, whether through family, culture, or even a humorous TV show like 'Mickey vs the World', which tackles mental health topics with a light-hearted touch.
As Emerson suggests, texting your teen could be a simple yet effective way to stay connected. Are the teens alright? It's a question that prompts reflection on how we can better support our young people.
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