Teenagers

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D.

An individual’s teenage years, which span the ages of 13 to 19, are marked by significant changes in their mind, body, and circumstances—changes that can cause them to feel and act in ways that are unique to their life stage. The transition into adulthood is a time of significant growth, exploration, and discovery.

Teenagers typically experience numerous physical, social, educational, and personality changes as they age. They often form new relationships, take harder classes, and start to develop a sense of self. Because teenagers may experience stress related to school, their social lives, and uncertainty about the future—along with fluctuations in their hormones—their emotions can be heightened, and they can be particularly susceptible to mental health conditions. In fact, it is estimated that almost 50% of teens have had a mental health disorder.

Despite the difficulties teenagers often face, this can also be a rewarding, enjoyable, and memorable time in their lives. It is usually the period during which young people mature the most and begin growing into the person they want to be. Understanding the experiences and challenges teenagers are exposed to can help parents and their teenagers better navigate this important period.

Mind & body changes

As they enter their teenage years, young people are often in the beginning or middle stages of puberty. They may be just starting to menstruate, discovering their sexuality, and growing into their adult bodies. 

During this time, levels of hormones like testosterone and estrogen become elevated, promoting mind and body development. These hormonal changes can also, however, lead to concerns like acne, self-doubt, low self-esteem, and drastic shifts in mood. 

It can be hard for teenagers to cope with the feelings that accompany a changing body and mind. They can benefit from guidance and advice when it comes to dealing with the effects of these changes. This can include developing healthy nutritional habits, exercising regularly, practicing self-care, and managing stress.

Developing a sense of self

During the transition into adulthood, teenagers are often discovering their individuality and learning who they are as people, independent of their parents. This can be a particularly stressful time because teenagers—who may not know what they want out of life yet—are often pressured to start creating a path for their academic and professional careers. Additionally, they may be further developing their personality, pursuing their passions, and nurturing relationships, all of which can help define who they are. 

As they mature, teenagers may wonder about their place in the world, how they might contribute to society, and which values are important to them. This period can be scary, but it can also be fruitful, as it often leads to important discoveries and lessons that help shape them into the adults they’ll become.

Mental health concerns

Teenagers are faced with numerous trials that can affect their mental well-being, including bullying, academic anxiety, relationship concerns, and peer pressure to experiment with substances or become sexually active. This can lead to symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression or physical health concerns such as self-harming or eating disorders. Additionally, certain teenagers—including those who are in the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities—may be more at risk of experiencing mental health concerns.

There are some warning signs that a teenager’s mental and emotional well-being are being impacted. For example, if they show signs of using drugs or alcohol, receive notably lower grades, are having a hard time getting enough sleep, or becoming increasingly withdrawn, seeking help can be vital.

Social media

Today’s youth is given a great deal of responsibility. Young people today are generally busier and more active than previous generations. This is partially due to the role that digital connectedness and social media play in a child's life—which can also present unique issues, such as social comparison and cyberbullying. Connecting teenagers with easily accessible mental health resources can be a constructive step toward helping them address these challenges and tend to their emotional well-being.

Teen mental health & online therapy

There are resources available designed to improve teen mental health or youth mental health. Therapy can provide a place to talk about what they’re going through if they are experiencing a mental health crisis and how it makes them feel while promoting positive mental health practices. It can also be helpful for parents to see a therapist when their child becomes a teenager so that they can work through their concerns as a guardian. 

Studies have found that mental health care through online therapy is an effective form of care for teenagers experiencing a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions. In one study, researchers concluded that online therapy has helped to “curb the burden of mental health needs in children and adolescents”. The study specifically notes the ability of online therapy to reach teenagers given their familiarity with technology and mobile platforms.

If you’re a teenager or a parent of one seeking support for mental health-related concerns, online therapy can help. Parents can connect with a mental health professional through BetterHelp or, along with their teenagers, get matched with a counselor that specializes in working with young adults through BetterHelp’s sister site, TeenCounseling. With online therapy, you can connect with a therapist remotely, which is helpful if you lead a busy life. BetterHelp and TeenCounseling work with thousands of licensed mental health providers—who have a wide range of specialties—so you’ll have a good chance of matching with someone who can address your specific concerns.

Takeaway

The years between 13 and 19 are a unique and formative time. Teenagers experience significant changes in their bodies and minds, and they frequently have to face new challenges related to school, relationships, and the transition into adulthood. If you’re a teen or parent looking for emotional support or guidance, consider getting matched with a qualified mental health provider. A licensed therapist can provide helpful insights and advice as you navigate this experience and nurture mental and emotional wellness.

Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.

What does it mean to be a teenager today, especially in the age of social media?

Today’s teenagers often has a lot of responsibility. They are generally busier and more active than previous generations. This is partially due to the role that digital connectedness and social media play in a teenager's life. These years may be increasingly defined by social connection, but other realities like peer pressure, social comparison, and cyberbullying may also be worth considering.

Are older teens children?

In some ways, teens are still children— at least chronologically so, as they continue with child development. In other ways, they seem to be more adult-like as they learn to take on new responsibilities and challenges that come with age. It can be important to find balance when working with teenagers because adolescence can be a challenging and tumultuous time in their lives.

How do I deal with my 13-year-old daughter's attitude?

When addressing teen behaviors of any kind, it can help to first take a deep breath. Try to put things into perspective before you have a conversation. Recognize that they likely aren’t trying to be a toxic person, even if they’re displaying negative behavior or saying cruel things. Put yourself in your teenager’s shoes and remember what it was like when you were at that age. Foster an environment of open communication between you and your teenagers that makes it easier for you to talk to them without confrontation (on either side).

How can teenagers deal with a toxic mother or toxic parents?

Toxic relationships can wreak havoc on a teenager's peace of mind. Setting personal boundaries may be one way to try to manage toxic parents. Another may be to find support from someone else at home or find a caring friend who can listen to you vent. Therapy can also help.

Why are the teenage years so hard?

Teenage life can be challenging for both parents and their children. Many teenagers experience unfamiliar changes in their mental and physical states due to puberty, hormonal changes, and an increase in responsibility as they become young adults. Guardians are often tasked with helping them navigate these challenges while also managing needs of their own.

What are the advantages of being a teen?

Teenagers are generally more energetic and have a pure zest for life that older adults and younger children may lack. They can also represent the hope for future societies, as they bring fresh ideas and new perspectives to outdated societal belief systems. The time a person spends as a teenager can be a formative part of their identity, beliefs, and social connections.

What are the disadvantages of being a teen?

Teenagers are often treated like either a child or an adult; in reality, they are somewhere in between the two. This is often confusing for teenagers because they may feel like they can’t live up to the expectations of each simultaneously. While they may feel like adults and even have some adult responsibilities, like a job, they may still have a curfew and need to be driven around until they are of legal driving age.  

Does teenage love last?

Some people who meet as teenagers are still happily together or married years or even decades later. Teenagers who have decided to commit to each other can build lasting relationships with proper communication and support. If you’re a teen and you need love and relationship advice, you might consider confiding in a teen or adolescent therapist for support.