People often ask us why young people struggle with emotional resilience.

Emotional resilience is a complex issue, and there are many factors that can contribute to its development. Understanding these factors can help us develop effective strategies to support young people in building emotional resilience and managing stress.

Here is the science…

Brain development: The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation, continues to develop until the mid-20s. This means that young people may struggle with managing their emotions until their brain development is complete.

And the social factors…

Social media: Social media can have a negative impact on young people's mental health and emotional resilience. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can increase feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which can impair emotional resilience.

Academic pressure: Young people are often under significant pressure to do well at school, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and a lack of emotional resilience. This pressure can come from parents, teachers, and peers, and can be particularly intense during exam periods.

Trauma and adverse experiences: Young people who have experienced trauma or adverse experiences, such as abuse, neglect, or family conflict, may struggle with emotional resilience. These experiences can have a lasting impact on mental health and emotional regulation.

Lack of coping skills: Young people may not have had the opportunity to develop effective coping skills to manage stress and difficult emotions because of their family situation. This can lead to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and depression, which can further impair emotional resilience.

Lack of support: Young people who do not have supportive relationships with family members, friends, or other adults may struggle with emotional resilience. Social support can help young people manage stress and build resilience in the face of adversity.

Overall, the teenage years are a challenging time because they involve significant physical, emotional, and social changes, as well as increased pressure to perform academically and establish one's identity. However, with the right support and resources, young people can successfully navigate this period of their lives and emerge as confident, emotionally resilient, and capable adults.