Introduction Imagine being a teenager, feeling the world on your shoulders, and then add to that the challenge of living with HIV in a place like Zimbabwe. For many adolescents, this is not just a story but a reality shaped by isolation, stigma, and mental health struggles. These young individuals often stand at a precarious […]
Tag: Adolescents

Understanding the Long Shadow of Preterm Birth on Adolescent and Adult Health
Introduction: The Echoes of Early Beginnings Imagine entering the world a little too early, with the clock seemingly ticking faster for those tiny lungs and heart. While medical advancements provide a robust safety net, some early arrivals face a silent countdown: the prolonged risk of developing multiple chronic illnesses later in life. Such is the […]

Breaking Down Barriers: Understanding Stigma and Support Among Caregivers in Addis Ababa
Stigma can be a heavy weight to bear, particularly when associated with mental illness. Think about it: how often do we discuss mental health openly, without a whisper of judgment or preconceived notions? The reality is double-edged for primary caregivers of children and adolescents with mental health conditions. They don’t just contend with the challenges […]

The Path to Healing: Understanding Counseling Needs for At-Risk Adolescents
Introduction: The Untold Stories Behind Closed Doors Picture a young teenager sitting quietly in a bustling school hallway, appearing lost in thought. Beneath the surface, this adolescent might be grappling with invisible burdens—lingering scars from childhood maltreatment and neglect. These silent struggles often go unnoticed, yet they hold immense power in shaping the future mental […]

The Social Curtains of Adolescents’ Minds: Exploring Inequalities in Mental Health
Introduction Imagine a world where the neighborhood you grow up in or the money your family makes could shape the state of your mind. In Australia, this is not just a dystopian fantasy but a pressing reality. Adolescents aged between 12 and 17 are living through one of the most influential phases of their lives […]

Screen-Time Dilemma: Unlocking the Impact on Young Minds
Introduction: Navigating the Screen Time Labyrinth Imagine a world where screens are as essential to survival as food and water. Sound familiar? For today’s kids, screens have become an integral part of daily life. In an era where technology dictates the rhythm of our routines, the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study taps into the […]

Emotions in Motion: Understanding How We See Neutral Faces
### Introduction Imagine walking down the street, seeing a friend who doesn’t smile or frown but instead maintains a perfectly neutral face. You might wonder, “Are they upset? Are they deep in thought?” This common scenario underscores a fascinating question in psychology: how do we interpret neutral faces, those emotionally ambiguous expressions that reveal so […]

Navigating the Mental Maze: How Youth Can Thrive Amidst a Pandemic
Introduction: A New Wave of Challenges Imagine you’re back to your teenage years, a time filled with growth, learning, and the occasional angst of figuring out your place in the world. Now, add a global pandemic to the mix—suddenly, life as you know changes layer by layer. Schools close, physical distancing becomes the norm, and […]

Navigating Lockdown: Insights into the Minds of Spanish Adolescents and Their Parents
Introduction: The Unexpected Test of Togetherness Imagine being confined within the walls of your home, with the outside world seemingly on pause. That was the reality for millions during the COVID-19 lockdown. Families were thrust into uncharted territory, experiencing a level of togetherness and isolation simultaneously. This unique situation became a living laboratory for understanding […]

Pathways to Prevention: Safeguarding Young Minds Against Substance Misuse
Introduction Have you ever wondered why some young people, despite facing considerable challenges in their early years, transcend adversity, while others find themselves entangled in the web of substance use? The question is as complex as it is crucial, especially in light of the increasing awareness of the impact childhood adversity has on future behavior. […]