Adolescence

Medically reviewed by Andrea Brant, LMHC

If you're a teen, adolescence articles may help you learn more about what's going on with your body and mind during the teenage years. If you're a parent, you can learn how to help your child make it through any challenges they might face. 

Understanding adolescence can feel tricky at times. It's a period when rapid changes can occur, and children might start to showcase more adult personality traits and desires. They may "try on" new personalities or align themselves with different friend groups. Parents may notice more arguments or a push for independence from their children. Often, these pushes come from a desire to learn more about oneself and prepare for adulthood. Reading adolescent articles can help parents understand how their children feel and why they might act a certain way. 

Understanding child development 

Adolescents are often still viewed as children, but their brains may change quickly with the introduction of new hormones in the body, such as more significant amounts of testosterone. In adolescence, the prefrontal cortex region of the brain is still developing and may not finish until the late 20s. For that reason, teens might take more risks and desire more independence, time alone, or time with friends instead of family.  

In the adolescence section, you can read articles on what to expect as the brain develops and learn how teens' bodies begin to change inside and out. Understanding the mechanics of neural development can help parents respond constructively and healthily.

Understanding late adolescence 

Late adolescence is an often-debated topic that refers to the stage an individual may encounter from around 18 to 24. Young adults may start trying to navigate shifting social norms and friend groups. It can be challenging for teens and adults to understand how they fit into the family if they feel like older people can't understand what they are going through. These articles can help guide parents and young adults through each stage of adolescence for a chance to be mentally and physically healthy throughout all areas of life. 

Understanding Teen Behaviors 

Some adolescents show changes from childhood to the teenage years. For example, during puberty, testosterone levels in males increase, and they might become more aggressive. While it may be temporary, it can be shocking for a parent to see their child irritated more often. The above articles can also guide you through building a connection with your child and helping them understand themselves. 

Adolescence is a period when teens begin to experience changes, new frustrations, and stressors in their life. The above articles may help parents understand how to discuss these topics with their children. Additionally, they may help you decide when a typical adolescent behavior is occurring or when your child might benefit from therapy. 

Understanding adolescent mental health conditions 

Bulimia, substance use, and other issues that come forward during adolescence might be challenging for parents to understand. Adolescents are often impressionable, and their peers may prompt them to make risky decisions.  

Several mental health conditions can occur in adolescence. Eating disorders in adolescents are common, and children can also experience them. Late adolescence is also a time when substance use issues can appear. These articles may help you decide when to offer support and when to find professional help. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.

Depression information for adolescents 

Depression can be common in adolescents. For example, over three million teens report having experienced a depressive episode. Many parents don't know how to help their children with depression. They might feel unsure how to help them receive the help they need and openly discuss mental health.

The above articles could help you understand why teens may not reach out for help and how to recognize the signs so you can step in and support your children. Adolescence is a rough time for many, but depression is highly treatable. 

Bullying information 

Above are a few articles about bullying. Bullying can be common during the teenage years, and bullying is often a risk factor for mental health concerns. 

It can be challenging for a teen to speak up about bullying. Additionally, bullying can now occur online (cyberbullying), which can feel overwhelming for a teen that spends a lot of time on social media. However, bullying is preventable. The above articles have tips for talking to your children about bullying, confronting bullying in schools, and preventing unkind behavior among adolescents. The articles also offer resources for teens who hope to prevent bullying, stand up to unkind individuals, and make changes in their schools. 

Adolescence overview 

Adolescence is marked by changing school, family, and social matters for teens and young adults. New behaviors may crop up during puberty or due to social challenges. As a parent, you may benefit from reading the above articles for more advice on adolescence. As a teen, you could also benefit from reading to understand further how your body and brain may change during this time. 

Both adults and teens can also take advantage of online therapy, such as the counseling offered on BetterHelp for those over 18 and TeenCounseling for those 13-19.