Adolescence, roughly the ages of 12 to 18, is a period of big changes and personal growth. It's a time of excitement and exploration but can also be very stressful. Before we can offer tools for stress relief in teens we must first have an understanding of the adolescence stage. This article will describe why adolescence is a stressful time. It will also explore the idea of "storm and stress" and discuss some of the common causes of stress in students.
Why are adolescents prone to stress?
Imagine yourself in the midst of a major home renovation. Your entire world is being transformed, and things are messy, noisy and unpredictable. This is what adolescence is like. It’s a period of significant physical, emotional and social changes. It's no wonder why adolescents are more prone to stress than other age groups.
Here's why adolescence is difficult:
- Rapid physical changes. Puberty brings a surge of hormones which can cause mood swings, body image concerns and even physical discomfort.
- Developing brain. The adolescent brain is still under construction. This is really true for the part of the brain that handles impulse control, decision-making and emotional regulation. This part of the brain is called the “prefrontal cortext.” If it’s underdeveloped, it can lead to more risky behavior and a hard time managing emotions.
- Social pressures. Fitting in with peers becomes very important during adolescence. Social pressures, academic competition and fear of rejection can be significant sources of stress.
- Increased independence. Adolescents crave more independence. But they often lack the life skills and experience to navigate complex situations on their own. This can be stressful and lead to conflict with parents and caregivers.
Even though teens are more susceptible to stress, many find positive ways to manage and overcome. According to researchers, most young people transition to adulthood without going through serious problems like substance use, violence or depression. Support from caregivers, peers and educators is key to helping teens find healthy stress relief resources.
Why is adolescence called a period of storm and stress?
The term "storm and stress" is used to describe emotional turbulence. Many adolescents experience it. This isn't just a catchy phrase. It reflects the very real emotional struggles that can be part of this developmental stage.
Examples of storm and stress in adolescence include:
- Increased mood swings. Rapid hormonal changes can lead to unpredictable shifts in mood. This makes it difficult for adolescents to control their feelings.
- Conflict with parents. As adolescents seek more independence, disagreements with parents and caregivers become more common. This can be an ongoing source of stress for both teens and their families.
- Academic pressure. The pressure to succeed in school can be overwhelming for some adolescents. This can lead to anxiety and performance issues.
- Social anxiety. Fitting in with peers is a major concern during adolescence. Social anxieties about rejection or bullying can be a growing source of stress.
These are just a few storm and stress examples. The specific experiences will vary from person to person.
What are four causes of stress among adolescents?
Many factors contribute to teenage stress. Here are four of the most common:
- Academic[Link to Sub-Pillar 1 - Common Causes of Stress in Students] and post-high school stress. The pressure to do well in school, sports and extracurricular activities can be intense. Planning for life after high school can also be a big source of stress for teens who want to go straight into the workforce or join the military.
- Social media. Social media can be a great way to connect with friends. But it can also contribute to social comparison, feelings of inadequacy and cyberbullying.
- Family issues. Family conflict, divorce and financial problems can bring stress to adolescents.
- Mental health concerns: Conditions like anxiety and depression are more common during adolescence than other life stages. Stress can worsen these conditions and vice versa.
You can find more teenage stress articles — for teens, caregivers and educators — on Change to Chill’s resource page.
RECAP: What are the effects of stress on an adolescent?
The answer to the question, "Is adolescence a stressful time?" is a resounding yes. Stress can have a significant impact on an adolescent's physical and mental health. Here are some potential effects of stress on an adolescent:
- Physical health problems. Stress can show up in the form of headaches, stomachaches or sleep problems. It can also weaken the immune system, making adolescents more likely to get sick.
- Mental health problems. As mentioned earlier, stress can worsen existing mental health conditions.
- Academic problems. Stress can lead to difficulty concentrating, decreased motivation and difficulty managing time effectively.
- Substance use. Some teens may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with stress.
Understanding the causes and effects of stress during adolescence is important. It allows parents, educators and teens to develop strategies to manage stress and promote emotional well-being.
At Change to Chill, we give families tools to help teens deal with stress. Here, teens and parents can find resources that can positively impact the mental health of someone they care about. There are many strategies to address stress relief for teens but only one way to do it: together.