Teens and COVID: Why It Was So Hard and How Therapy Can Help
Image by Steinar Engeland on Upslash
Even before the pandemic, being a teenager was tough. Between working out their identity, forming relationships with others, and juggling school, work, and hobbies, teens have a lot on their plates as it is. Add a global pandemic on top of all of that, and it isn’t hard to see why teens have been struggling more than ever.
The Pandemic: A Unique Challenge for Teens
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to teenagers. It was an abrupt disruption to their already tumultuous lives. Teens, at an age where social connections and exploration are crucial for development, suddenly found themselves isolated from friends and peers due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. Activities they once enjoyed, such as sports, clubs, and school events, were canceled or drastically altered. The stability and predictability they craved were replaced by uncertainty and fear.
Between increased feelings of isolation, anxiety, and Covid-driven changes in our interactions with others, 38% of Gen Z have said that their mental health has gotten worse since the pandemic started. For teenagers, it wasn't just about adjusting to remote learning; it was about missing out on milestones like proms, graduations, and other significant events. It was about coping with the fear of a virus that threatened the lives of loved ones. The pandemic amplified the emotional intensity of adolescence, and for many, it felt like an uphill battle.
Understanding the Teen Experience
The teenage years are a paradox. They can feel overwhelmingly emotionally intense, yet these emotions are often trivialized by adults who may have forgotten what it's like to be a teen. To help a struggling teenager, it's important to reflect on your own teenage years. Remember the intense emotions of heartbreak, anxiety over dreams, and the stress of new experiences. Now, imagine adding the isolation and uncertainty of the pandemic. It's clear why teens are having a hard time.
Navigating Complex Emotions
Teens not only experience new emotions but also grapple with self-judgment, shame, and comparisons with peers. These feelings can hinder open communication with friends and family. The rise of social media intensifies this by encouraging constant comparisons. Therapy steps in here. A trusted therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for teens to express themselves, fostering trust and security.
Building Coping Skills and Resilience in Teenagers
Amid the challenges of middle and high school, coupled with pandemic uncertainties, therapy for teenagers equips them with coping skills. These skills are lifelong tools for managing stress. The emotional resilience gained from therapy helps teens feel empowered and self-reliant. This self-reliance, along with improved coping abilities, boosts self-esteem and confidence, essential for mental well-being.
Fostering Self-Efficacy In Teenagers for a Strong Future
The pandemic has left many teens uncertain about their future. Developing self-confidence becomes crucial. Therapy aids in building self-efficacy—the belief in one's ability to overcome obstacles. This is especially significant for marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community. As young adults navigate pandemic-related setbacks, a sense of self-efficacy becomes invaluable.
Supporting Mental Health With Therapy For Teenagers
If your teen is struggling, you're not alone. Many teenagers are grappling with pandemic-related changes. As a supportive ally, you can make a difference. Acknowledge their feelings, and guide them towards therapy. Through therapy, your teen gains security, coping skills, and self-reliance—ingredients for their success.
In a world that keeps changing, therapy remains a constant source of strength for teenagers.
