Stress is a normal part of life, but teens often need more support than adults or younger children. The teen years are all about figuring out who you are and what you want to do with your life. Teens also have to navigate new situations, such as setting boundaries with romantic partners and balancing work with extracurricular activities. These are just a few of the reasons teens need strong support.

• Peer pressure. During the teen years, the brain is still developing, so teenagers are highly susceptible to the influence of their peers. Classmates and others may pressure each other to drink, use drugs or take part in bullying. Giving in to this pressure contributes to anxiety, sadness and guilt. If you’re dealing with peer pressure, you’re not alone. According to the Pew Research Center, 7% of both boys and girls report feeling pressured to be sexually active, and many teens (45% of girls and 37% of boys) feel pressure to fit in socially.
• Socioeconomic challenges. In 2022, nearly 38 million Americans were living in poverty, making it difficult to afford food, heat and other necessities. Even families well above the poverty line can have financial struggles, leaving teens feeling stressed and vulnerable. These worries can also make teens worry about fitting in, and can prevent them from focusing on their studies.
• Family dysfunction. Some teens need support because they belong to dysfunctional families — those with a high level of conflict due to abuse, addiction or another problem. Poor boundaries, unpredictability and ineffective communication are just a few of the reasons teens may need extra support.