Social anxiety in teenagers is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact their daily lives and interactions. It is essential to differentiate between typical teenage shyness and more severe social anxiety. Adolescents naturally become more self-conscious and socially anxious due to developmental changes. However, when avoidance of social situations becomes frequent and leads to withdrawal, it may indicate a more significant concern.

In our final session of the term, we talked to Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarah-Jane Knight, about supporting teens with social anxiety, including spotting the signs and how to help.

The conversation around teen substance use, including drinking, vaping, and drug use, is an important one for parents, especially during the festive season when teens are socialising more, and the risks of experimenting with substances may increase. This week, we were joined by Fiona Spargo-Mabbs OBE, Founder and Director of the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation, to learn more about the substances in circulation, the factors contributing to substance use among teenagers, and how parents can best navigate these challenges.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterised by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform. These compulsions are often carried out to reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions, but the relief is typically temporary, which causes a cycle of distress.

In today’s fast-paced world, teenagers face a myriad of pressures, particularly in academic settings. To support teens in the best way possible, it’s crucial for parents and educators to recognise the various sources of pressure and the impact they can have on the mental health of young people. Even the best-intended parental guidance can sometimes add more pressure, especially if it’s based on a different version of success than the teen sees for themselves.

Navigating the complexities of teenage mental health and communication can be challenging for parents and educators. This week, we talked to Dr. Bettina Hohnen, a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience in child mental health and neurodiversity, who offered valuable insights into understanding and supporting teenagers, particularly when it comes to difficult conversations.

Autism in teenagers brings specific challenges, particularly in the school environment. Autistic teens often struggle with sensory sensitivities, social interactions, and the unpredictability of the school day. The overwhelming noise, busy corridors, and crowded spaces like lunchrooms can create significant overload and anxiety, making school attendance difficult. These sensory challenges, combined with the need for more sensory regulation and structured routines, can contribute to Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), where students avoid school due to emotional distress.

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a developmental disorder that often presents unique challenges during adolescence. This period of life is marked by significant changes, both physically and emotionally, which can amplify the symptoms of ADHD. Understanding these changes and how they affect teenagers with ADHD is crucial for providing effective support.

The digital world is an enormous draw for teens, offering incredible advancements in education, social interaction, and hobbies. Yet, there's always a balance to be struck between benefit and risk. Cyberbullying and online harassment remain significant concerns, with statistics indicating that a substantial percentage of teenagers have experienced some form of online harassment. 

Understanding and supporting neurodiverse teens, particularly those with autism and ADHD, requires a nuanced approach that respects their individuality and focuses on their strengths. We were joined by Dr Tamasine Black, Lead Educational and Child Psychologist, who shared insights on how to understand the unique challenges of neurodiverse teenagers, how to adapt parenting styles to meet their needs and support their unique challenges.