Teen stress levels have been on the rise, surpassing those of adults since 2013 according to the American Psychological Association (APA). Surveys consistently reveal this trend, showing worsening mental health and higher anxiety and depression in teens compared to other age groups. A significant increase in serious psychological distress, major depression, and suicide among teens and young adults was observed between 2005 and 2017. College student surveys also indicate a rise in anxiety and depression episodes.
While adolescence is a period of transformation, it is not inherently characterized by mental illness. This begs the question: why is teen distress increasing, and what can be done?
Social media is often blamed for teen stress. Teens spend hours on screens, exposed to idealised online personas, leading to social comparisons. This constant exposure can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
Research reveals a correlation between the rise of smartphones in 2012 and increased mental health problems in teens. More time spent on new media links to more mental health issues, while in-person interactions correlate with fewer problems.
However, the relationship between social media and mental health is complex. Correlation does not equal causation. Some studies suggest that heavy social media use might be a symptom of underlying distress rather than the cause. Depression in middle school girls, for example, predicted greater social media use two years later in one study.
Over time, youth and families are becoming more adept at managing social media. Many teens view it as a source of social support. Growing awareness of how social media’s reward algorithms can be addictive, especially for developing brains, is leading to parental controls and guidelines for healthier online habits.
Teens, with their developing brains and increasing awareness of the world, are particularly vulnerable to stress. Neurological changes during puberty shift their attention outward, leading to greater absorption of external stressors. High school curricula focusing on current events further exposes them to potentially distressing information.
Teens experience stress related to societal issues like gun violence, mass shootings, climate change, and political polarisation. They also face pressures related to academics, work, money, and social dynamics. This increased exposure, coupled with limited coping mechanisms, can create a perfect storm for stress.
Recent research suggests that puberty offers a second chance to recalibrate the stress system. A supportive environment can improve coping skills, while a harsh and stressful one can increase vulnerability to mental and physical health issues.
Rising teen stress should concern policymakers not only for the well-being of adolescents but also for the future of society. It serves as a potential warning sign of societal issues. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a healthy and productive next generation. Individual coping strategies can help manage stress in the meantime, but broader societal changes are necessary for long-term solutions.