Understanding Adolescence: The struggles, pressures, and mental health challenges of today's teens

The web series Adolescence , revolving around 13 year old Jamie who has murdered his school mate, has made a significant impact by shedding light on the complex, often turbulent journey of teenage years. With its raw storytelling and relatable characters, the series resonates deeply with young viewers, tackling themes like peer pressure, identity struggles, mental health, and the overwhelming influence of social media. It doesn’t just depict teenage issues—it normalizes conversations around issues that are often brushed under the carpet, such as anxiety, depression, and perception. Unlike dramatized high-school narratives, the show captures the quiet battles teenagers fight daily.

Adolescence has raised several questions. As Netflix describes it: "The gripping story unfolds in real time as the main characters — from the central family to the detectives investigating the crime — search for answers in the wake of a shocking tragedy. Who is actually responsible? Why did it happen? Could it have been prevented?"

The series has sparked important discussions among parents and educators, encouraging a more empathetic approach to teenage issues.

Adolescence, the age between 12-18 mostly, is a rollercoaster ride. It’s that chaotic, thrilling, and sometimes terrifying phase where emotions run wild, friendships feel like lifelines, and every little thing seems like the end of the world. But beneath the surface, many teenagers struggle with deeper emotional battles—anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and the constant pressure to live up to expectations.



“One of our aims was to ask, ‘What is happening to our young men these days, and what are the pressures they face from their peers, from the internet, and from social media?’ ” Stephen Graham, who played the father in the series, told Netflix. “And the pressures that come from all of those things are as difficult for kids here as they are the world over.”

As Ms. Deekshaa Athwani, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Fortis Hospital Mulund, points out, this stage is a crucial one for emotional development, and with it comes an overwhelming mix of challenges.

Teenagers today are navigating a world that demands perfection in academics, social life, and even their online presence. The pressure to perform can lead to burnout, stress, and, in some cases, severe anxiety. "Identity formation is one of the biggest struggles adolescents face," says Ms. Athwani. "They constantly compare themselves to their peers and social media influencers, leading to low self-esteem and self-doubt." Add to this the hormonal changes that naturally cause mood swings, and it’s no surprise that so many young people feel lost in their own emotions.

Academic stress is another heavyweight in a teen’s life. The never-ending cycle of exams, grades, and the pressure to get into top universities can leave them feeling exhausted and mentally drained. "The fear of failure can be paralyzing," says Ms. Athwani. "Many teenagers feel like their entire future depends on their academic performance, and that stress can take a serious toll on their mental health."



Then, there’s the tricky world of friendships, peer pressure, and social relationships. For teens, fitting in is everything, and the fear of being left out can push them toward risky behaviors. "Peer pressure can be a double-edged sword," explains Ms. Athwani. "While some friendships provide support, others can lead adolescents into experimenting with substances, unhealthy relationships, or dangerous behavior just to seek validation."


Loneliness is another major issue, and it’s ironic in an era where social media keeps people connected 24/7. Many teens feel isolated, even when they’re constantly online. "FOMO—the fear of missing out—is a real thing," Ms. Athwani notes. "When they see their peers posting picture-perfect lives, they feel like they’re not doing enough or not good enough. That constant comparison can fuel anxiety and depression."


Social media itself plays a massive role in shaping adolescent mental health. While it offers a space for self-expression and connection, it also brings with it the dark side of online bullying, validation-seeking, and toxic comparison. "The problem is that social media is a highlight reel," says Ms. Athwani. "Teenagers look at edited, filtered versions of people’s lives and start believing their own lives are dull or inadequate. It chips away at their self-worth."


Cyberbullying is another growing concern. The anonymity of online platforms makes it easy for people to post hurtful comments, and these can have a devastating impact on a teen’s self-esteem. "Some adolescents internalize the negativity," she adds. "They start believing in the insults, and over time, it leads to severe self-doubt and even depression."

And then there’s the sleep factor. With social media keeping them hooked, many teenagers scroll through their feeds late into the night, disrupting their sleep patterns. "Lack of sleep worsens mental health issues," Ms. Athwani warns. "It leads to irritability, difficulty concentrating, and emotional instability, creating a vicious cycle."


So, how do parents and caregivers recognize when something is wrong?

According to Dr. Bhupinder Kapoor, Professor at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, the signs of anxiety and depression in teens can be subtle. "Look for changes in behavior—are they withdrawing from activities they once loved? Are they sleeping too much or too little? Have their eating habits changed?" Dr. Kapoor emphasizes that physical symptoms like unexplained headaches or stomach aches can also be linked to mental health struggles. "Teens might not always verbalize their distress, but their actions will tell the story."


Perhaps the most alarming signs are emotional numbness, exhaustion, or persistent feelings of hopelessness. "A teenager who starts expressing feelings of worthlessness or who loses interest in everything needs immediate attention," Dr. Kapoor stresses. "These are major red flags, and seeking professional help can make all the difference."


One crucial element that can help teenagers navigate this turbulent phase is sex education. The topic remains controversial in many parts of the world, but experts agree that providing young people with age-appropriate, factual information is key to helping them make informed decisions about their health and relationships. "Sex education isn’t just about biology," says Dr. Kapoor. "It’s about emotional intelligence, consent, respect, and understanding relationships in a healthy way."

A lack of proper sex education can leave teens vulnerable to misinformation, risky behaviors, and even abuse. "When adolescents aren’t taught about healthy relationships and boundaries, they may end up in situations where they don’t know how to protect themselves," Dr. Kapoor explains. "This is why open communication is so important—not just in schools, but at home as well."



Parents play a significant role in shaping how teenagers understand relationships, emotions, and self-worth. "When parents engage in open, non-judgmental discussions, it creates an environment where teens feel safe to ask questions and share concerns," Dr. Kapoor adds. "This prevents them from seeking answers from unreliable sources."


Beyond education, encouraging extracurricular activities can also be a game-changer for adolescent mental health. Whether it’s sports, music, art, or community service, these activities provide teens with a sense of purpose, a creative outlet, and essential life skills like teamwork and perseverance. "Extracurriculars help in channeling emotions in a positive way," says Dr. Kapoor. "They allow teenagers to explore their passions and build self-confidence outside the academic realm."


At the end of the day, adolescence is tough, but it’s also a time of growth, discovery, and self-expression. With the right support system—be it family, friends, or mentors—teenagers can navigate their struggles and come out stronger. "It’s about balance," Ms. Athwani says. "Helping adolescents understand their worth beyond grades, social media likes, or peer validation is the key to nurturing their mental well-being."

The teenage years might be filled with ups and downs, but they don’t have to be faced alone. Creating open conversations, promoting healthy habits, and offering emotional support can make all the difference in shaping a happier, more confident generation.