Parenting In High School: The Challenges Of Being A Teenage Parent

Pregnant women and new parents of all ages typically have plenty of challenges to face, and it often takes time to adjust to the new lifestyle. However, navigating the ins and outs of adolescence and raising a child at the same time can be a particularly demanding experience. Managing a teenage pregnancy, balancing the responsibilities of parenthood, high school, and/or work, and navigating often-complex social changes are only a few of the hurdles that a teenage parent must address. Here, we’ll explore some of the key challenges of teen pregnancy and parenthood in more detail, outline how they may impact mental health, and provide suggestions for how teen parents can care for themselves and their mental health, so they can better care for their children.

Facts and statistics about teenage pregnancy

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), births among teens aged 15–19 have declined by 78% from 1991 to 2021. In 2022, the birth rate for 15–19-year-olds was at a record low: 13.5 per 1,000. 

The reasons for this dramatic decline aren't entirely clear, but experts believe it’s likely due to a combination of factors, including a rise in teen abstinence from sexual intercourse and birth control use—particularly long-acting reversible contraception such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). That said, teen pregnancy and parenthood still affect many individuals and families each year.

The emotional and psychological difficulties of being a teenage parent

Teen birthing parents are also more likely to experience postpartum depression (PPD) than their adult counterparts, potentially leading to insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, difficulty bonding with the baby, persistent sadness, and more. When left unaddressed, PPD can lead to severe, long-term depression and potentially serious complications. 

In addition, feelings of loneliness and isolation might result if there is a lack of emotional support from family and peers. Some teen parents may experience feelings of guilt and self-doubt associated with parenting abilities. Financial pressures, coping with unexpected life changes, and juggling parental responsibilities with personal development can all contribute to anxiety in teen parents. 

Social stigma and judgment around teens having children

Many teen parents experience the effects of stigma. Teen birthing parents and teenagers in marginalized populations tend to face higher levels of stigma. Stereotypes and assumptions based on age, gender, ethnicity, income, and other demographic factors can play a significant role in the mental health of teen parents. These societal attitudes can alienate young parents from their peers, cause strained or estranged familial relationships, and create barriers to finding community acceptance.  

Educational and career challenges 

Due to the challenges of balancing schoolwork and caring for a child, teenage parents might experience higher high school dropout rates and be less likely to pursue higher education than their peers. They also tend to face more significant barriers to career opportunities due to the limited availability of childcare and a lack of experience and qualifications. As a result, they might find it difficult to achieve financial stability, particularly if they lack support from family or community. Some students who don’t finish school may pursue alternative education options, like trade school, for example, or GED programs to earn a high school diploma.  

Relationship struggles and co-parenting challenges 

Teens often face challenges in their relationships due to a lack of emotional security, unwise decision-making, and other factors associated with adolescence. Parenting a child can significantly strain young couples trying to maintain a romantic relationship. 

Teen moms and birthing parents of other genders are also more likely to raise their children solo because of an absent father or uninvolved partners. Such circumstances may lead to legal and financial concerns and might also contribute to resentment and family animosity. 

Support for teen co-parenting

Although it isn’t always the case, according to research, teen parents who stay together or have a strong co-parenting relationship are generally considered more likely to achieve success than those who separate or don’t co-parent. This commitment may lead to better educational and socioeconomic circumstances for the family as a whole. The relationship success of teen couples with children often depends heavily on factors like individual motivation and the quality of their relationship. Having a solid support system from extended family, such as parents and grandparents, and their broader community can also play a significant role. 

Keep in mind, though, that there may be times when familial involvement or co-parenting isn't beneficial. For example, if there is significant conflict within the family or family members are overly critical, it can negatively impact relationships and outcomes. Additionally, the couple's commitment to each other and their ability to navigate challenges together are often important factors in determining their relationship stability. 

Lack of availability of resources and support services 

Young people who become parents while still teenagers often lack the ability to receive crucial social services such as:

• Pre- and post-natal healthcare
• Affordable childcare
• Adequate housing
• Financial assistance
• Educational support
• Mental health services 
• Basic information about parenting and how a child learns

Young parents might lack awareness about available services. They might face challenges navigating social welfare programs designed to help them find affordable housing and childcare options. Expanding government programs and community-based initiatives can help; however, ensuring teens find and use that help often begins with reducing the stigma of being a teenage parent. Support from schools, mentors, and parents, and encouragement from peers can also play a role in setting up teen parents for success. 

Coping strategies and mental health support 

Parenthood—particularly at a young age—can come with overwhelming pressure. While their peers might worry about grades, work, and friends, many teen parents worry about those in addition to the more complex stressors associated with the responsibility of caring for a child. They may feel like they’re carrying the weight of the world. Caring for one’s mental and physical health is generally essential for successfully navigating the challenges of teen parenting. Additionally, without intervention, teens may be more likely to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms for stress, which could lead to challenges like substance misuse (formerly “substance abuse”) or other risky behaviors. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Taking care of the body and mind during teenage pregnancy and parenthood

Better mental health for adolescent mothers and adolescent birthing parents of other genders often begins with caring for their physical, reproductive, and sexual health. Compared to older women, teen mothers may be at a higher risk for pregnancy-related complications, especially if it’s their first birth. Regular checkups with an OBGYN before and after giving birth are typically vital for ensuring both the parent and the baby are healthy, and maintaining healthy habits throughout pregnancy can also be important.

Pregnant parents are also advised to remain aware of their mental health, watch for signs of anxiety and depression, and consult with their doctor if they experience symptoms. In addition, healthy coping mechanisms like: 

• Meditation
• Mindfulness
• Spending time in nature

Finding time to participate in activities that nourish and bring joy can also contribute significantly to a young parent’s mental health. 

Self-care for teen parents during the child development years

Beyond pregnancy, adolescent moms and other young parents should continue caring for their physical health by attending medical appointments regularly and following their doctor's recommendations, particularly during postnatal healing. After the child's birth, a parent's focus typically shifts toward supporting their childhood development and growth, which can present new challenges and stressors. For this reason, teen parents are also advised to practice self-care techniques to stay mentally healthy. 

For young mothers or teen parents of other genders, it can be beneficial to regularly set time aside for yourself, even if it’s brief. Some examples of self-care practices to consider exploring include:

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and muscle relaxation
• Find enjoyable ways to exercise and move your body
• Break up large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones to avoid overwhelm
• Practice drawing healthy boundaries
• Set realistic goals and expectations for yourself
• Engage in positive self-talk
• Lean on social support

It can also be helpful to use methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe your thoughts and cultivate a more positive and empowered outlook. A mental health professional can help you learn how to use this technique.

Build a strong network of family and friends with young children

Help from family, friends, and mentors can make a significant difference in the mental health of young parents. Connecting with other adolescent parents can also be beneficial, as the shared experiences and understanding within the group can be affirming and supportive. In addition, local and online support groups can empower and instill confidence, give a sense of community, normalize the experience of teen parenthood, and reduce feelings of isolation. Group programs can also provide information and resources related to: 

• Parenting
• Healthcare
• Education

The unique challenges of parenting teen parents while supporting child development

The parents of teenage mothers and teenage parents of other genders also face unique challenges. For example, you may recognize that your teenage child is still maturing. As such, you might need to help with personal development and confidence-building alongside guidance and support with new parenting skills. 

Parents may need to help their teen navigate complex family dynamics, such as if their partner’s family is involved in the child’s life. Parents of teen parents may also contribute financially and help their teenager balance the demands of work and/or high school with the significant time commitment of caring for a baby. Stress and other mental health challenges can result, which is why practicing self-care and seeking mental health care as needed can be important for the parents of teen parents, too.

Finding resources and support for the difficulties of being a teenage parent

Additionally, parents might play a role in ensuring their teen can receive appropriate healthcare, parenting education, and support services as needed. If you’re a parent helping your teen navigate their new role, you might communicate with your child’s school counselor and/or their pediatrician or GP for assistance. These professionals might be able to refer you and your teen to a social worker or counselor focused on helping teen parents and their families. Websites like the CDC and the Annie E. Casey Foundation also offer resources aimed at supporting young parents.

Speaking with a mental health professional 

Teen parents and those who care for them face what may seem like overwhelming challenges. With the proper support from healthcare providers, community programs, family, friends, and mentors, however, it can be possible to cope with such challenges and thrive. 

That said, it’s not uncommon for a teenage parent or their caregiver to neglect their own mental well-being, creating an imbalance and undermining their ability to support others adequately. When stress isn't managed in a healthy way and mental health challenges go unaddressed, they can lead to more serious conditions like anxiety and mood disorders. 

While many individuals and their families find relief in teen therapy, many don’t seek help. Parents may not have time to attend appointments in person, particularly if they don’t have childcare resources. Some individuals may assume that therapy is unaffordable or won’t work for them. Still others may become deterred by the stigma surrounding mental health. Virtual therapy can offer a solution to such barriers to mental healthcare, potentially yielding positive effects for teen parents. 

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp for adults and TeenCounseling for those aged 13–19 allow users to speak with a mental health professional virtually at pre-scheduled times that work for them. Online therapy often costs less than traditional treatment as well. Many BetterHelp therapists are now accepting certain insurance carriers, and adults with insurance coverage have an average co-pay of $23/week.

It’s important to make an informed decision about your (or your teen’s) mental health care. Studies suggest that virtual therapy can often be as effective as conventional treatment for people living with conditions like anxiety and depression. For example, researchers in a 2020 study measured the experience of patients participating in virtual psychotherapy during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their findings suggest that the participants’ overall view of online therapy was “effective and satisfying" regarding both mental health outcomes and their therapeutic relationship with the mental health care provider.