Being a teenager or young adult is a challenging life stage. The young persons’ brain goes through a rewiring stage, preparing them for adulthood. The part of the brain responsible for judgement and the ability to control moods, impulses and emotions is the last to fully develop. Coupled with hormonal changes and other stresses – for example anxiety caused by exam pressure, developing sexuality, social media and possible bullying – these developments can feel overwhelming. Counselling gives teenagers and young adults the chance to talk to someone who is separate from the family, non-judgemental and can help them make sense of their thoughts, feelings and behaviour. At The Eaves, we have experienced therapists who are specifically trained to work with teenagers and young adults. They can also help with specific issues such as self-harm, low self-esteem, panic attacks or eating disorders. At The Eaves, sessions with adolescents are confidential. This is to facilitate building a trusting relationship between the client and the therapist.
Early puberty is associated with poor mental health outcomes. Research shows that girls and boys who develop earlier are more likely to have depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, eating disorders, and an increased risk of suicide. This may be due to them feeling out of place.
The most common mental disorders that affect young adults include: depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders such as; bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, or body dysmorphia.
Puberty is associated with hormonal changes, as well as physical changes such as breast development in females (thelarche), pubic hair development (pubarche), genital changes in males, voice changes, an increase in height, and the onset of menstruation (menarche)