Why are teenagers susceptible to depression? And what can they do to thrive and be emotionally healthier? The teen years are characterised by three converging events that are a window of risk for developing depression. 

First, puberty brings dramatic changes that completely remodels their brain. Second, they gradually become better at self-regulation. Third is the intense series of social changes that happen as they transition into independence.

The teenage brains flexibility to adapt and adjust is what makes teenagers highly susceptible and vulnerable to disruption by these events. Unusual, very intense or traumatic stress events in the teenage years can have a bigger and more lasting impact on mental health than if the same kind of events happen later in life as an adult.

But these same changes and dynamics that make the teenage years a window of risk are also a window of opportunity. With the right support and brain scaffolding to develop coping skills, these challenges can also be deeply enriching and boost their brain health and resilience. 

podcast website: https://www.ologyonlinecourses.com/podcast; follow us @ologyonline on facebook, twitter and instagram