A Guide to Dealing with Teenage Issues

Introduction

Many things can go wrong during the teenage years. It is a period when bodies and minds change, sometimes in ways that can be hard to control or understand. There can be pressure from friends or society to conform to specific standards or behave in particular ways. Add in hormones [1], and it’s no wonder that teenagers can sometimes have a tough time.
If you’re a teenager, or a parent of one, here is a practical guide on dealing with teenage issues.

What are Teenage Issues?

Teenage issues are problems that arise during adolescence [2]. These problems can be physical, mental, emotional, or social. Teenagers have to deal with academic pressure, peer pressure, constant tiff with parents because of different values and ideologies, and eating disorders. Today’s teenagers also have to face body image issues, anxiety to portray a perfect life on social media, drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy, and depression. 
Parents and guardians need to be aware of the potential problems faced by their teenagers so that they can help them through these. Additionally, it’s also crucial for teenagers to have someone to talk to about their issues so that they don’t feel alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with a teenage problem, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

What are the Top Teenage Issues

Different teenagers will face other issues. However, some of the most common problems that teenagers face include:

1. Body image and self-esteem: Many teenagers are unhappy with their bodies and feel pressured to look differently. It can lead to eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and low self-esteem.
2. Bullying: Unfortunately, bullying is a common problem in schools. It can lead to isolation, anxiety, and depression.
3. Substance abuse: Some teenagers turn to drugs or alcohol to deal with their problems. It can lead to addiction and other serious health issues.
4. Sexuality: Many teenagers struggle with their sexuality. It can be confusing and challenging, especially if they feel that family or friends do not support them.
5. Mental health: Teenagers are at a higher risk of developing mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Often, this is due to the pressure of exams, body image, and other issues.

What are Contemporary Teenage Issues

One of the most common teenage issues in contemporary society is spending too much time on mobile and social media. It can lead to many problems, including:

1. Cyberbullying: Bullying has taken a new form in the digital age. Unfortunately, this can be as damaging as traditional bullying, leading to isolation, anxiety, and depression.
2. Social media: The pressure to be perfect on social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder.
3. Sexting: The pressure to send sexual images can lead to cyberbullying, body image issues, and anxiety.

If you’re concerned about your teenager’s mobile and social media use, try to encourage them to balance it with other activities. You could also set limits on screen time. If the problem persists, you may need to seek professional help.
Listed below are a few other relevant contemporary teenage issues:

5. Exam stress: Competitive exams are becoming more cut-throat with each passing year. The pressure to do well in exams can lead to anxiety and depression.
6. Mental health: As mentioned before, mental health problems are common among teenagers. If you’re worried about your child’s mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

 

What are Teenage Issues with Parents

Parenting seems most difficult when your children are teenagers. Most likely, you must also be facing some of the issues mentioned below:

1. Rebellion: Many teenagers rebel against their parents, trying to assert their independence. It can lead to arguments and conflict.
2. Lack of communication: It can be hard to communicate with your teenager, especially if they have a difficult time. It can make it challenging to resolve problems.
3. Different values: As your child grows up, they may start to hold different values from you. It can be a difficult thing to deal with as a parent.
4. Aggression: Factors like hormones, peer pressure, and stress can cause attacks in teenagers. If your teenager is exhibiting this behaviour, it’s essential to understand the underlying cause.

How to Cope with Teenage Issues

If you’re struggling to cope with teenage issues, some things can help make it easier. These include:

1.   Talk to someone you trust. Be it a parent, guardian, teacher, doctor, counsellor, or even a helpline, it is essential to have someone to talk to who will understand and offer support.
2.   Be active. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. Taking part in sport or another physical activity can also help to build confidence and improve self-esteem.
3.   Get enough sleep. A lack of sleep can exacerbate problems such as anxiety and depression. It can also make it harder to concentrate and make good decisions. Most teenagers need around eight to 10 hours of sleep per night.
4.   Limit screen time. Too much time spent on screens can lead to social isolation, anxiety, and depression. It’s essential to strike a balance between online and offline activities.
5.   Do something you enjoy. Pursuing a hobby or interest can help you to relax and de-stress. It can also boost self-esteem and provide a sense of achievement.
6.   Eat a healthy diet. A nutritious diet provides the energy and nutrients needed for physical and mental health. Avoiding junk food and eating regular meals can help stabilise mood and energy levels.
7.   Seek professional help. If the problem persists, you may need to seek professional help. A therapist can help your child to understand and cope with their emotions.

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Conclusion

The teenage years can be one of the most challenging times in everyone’s life, but it is also the most valuable one as it teaches us many lessons and prepares us for adulthood. During this phase, you are neither an adult nor a kid. Thus, though you want to be assertive about your independence, you might not be capable of it in all situations. It can be overwhelming and confusing. If you’re struggling to cope, seek help from a trusted adult. It could be a family member, friend, teacher, or counsellor. We hope the above guide will help make your teenage journey a cherished and memorable one!
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References

1. Wikipedia Contributors, “Hormone,” Wikipedia, Jul. 09, 2022. [Online]. Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hormone. [Accessed: Jul. 20, 2022]
2. Wikipedia Contributors, “Adolescence,” Wikipedia, Jul. 20, 2022. [Online]. Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolescence. [Accessed: Jul. 20, 2022]