Adolescence is, and always has been, a search for independence, security, positive relationships and a sense of identity. These are the same issues you faced when you were young, yet today's young people have a completely different environment with different pressures. Adolescence can be a time of excitement, new experiences and decisions.
Adolescence can often be a time of juggling socialising, hobbies, school, work and family.
All with their own pressures and it can feel like we don't have the coping skills to handle it all. This juggling act is also at a time when there are pressures and fears around physical changes and new responsibilities. Growing up can be especially scary when there are things in the grown-up world that you don't want to be a part of, yet cannot change. The peer group plays a huge part in our lives, especially for those who struggle to get what they need from their families. Fitting in and acceptance by peers are crucial to good self-esteem, as is striking out as an individual.