Photo credit: hechingerreport.org
Today’s youth often face unflattering characterizations, described as “disengaged,” “unmotivated,” and even “fragile.” The prevailing narrative surrounding them highlights issues such as learning deficits attributed to the pandemic and a crisis in adolescent mental health. Alongside these concerns, a familiar refrain about youth smartphone addiction adds to a troubling label: “the anxious generation.”
While some experts assert these labels can facilitate medical diagnoses and necessary interventions, the truth is they frequently lead to negative criticism rather than constructive solutions. Unfortunately, since the onset of the pandemic, discussions often pivot from understanding to blame, a shift that calls for a new narrative focused on identifying and nurturing the strengths of young people.
As a psychiatrist, my experience has shown that labeling patients can be detrimental. If I had constantly reminded my patients of their struggles or potential failures, many would not have returned for further care. Many young individuals have endured significant trauma, and naturally, no one wishes to be identified solely by their most challenging experiences.
Consider a child who suffers an injury, such as a bike accident, requiring emergency treatment for a concussion and various physical damage. In such a case, medical professionals offer a recovery plan detailing necessary steps and timelines for healing. The focus shifts quickly to rehabilitation, maintaining an active partnership between the family and health care providers to prioritize the child’s return to normal activities.
Recovery demands a thoughtful balance between rest and rebuilding strength, ensuring that both injured and unaffected areas are addressed. Following a serious injury, medical guidance often prohibits school attendance and screen time to facilitate rest and recovery. While challenging, such measures are essential for eventual healing.
It is crucial to recognize that healing is even more complicated when compounded by stress. Although stress can motivate and prepare individuals for challenges like exams and performances, chronic stress without respite can be harmful. Activities that promote relaxation and enjoyment—such as physical movement, mindfulness, or engaging in hobbies—are vital to alleviate stress and enhance recovery chances.
When excessive stress overwhelms the brain, it may initiate a shift from health to illness, leading to issues such as diminished focus, irritability, and memory problems. Increased cortisol levels negatively impact immune responses and can result in symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, including mood swings and diminished appetite.
Yet this struggle does not signify an end. Humans possess an innate capability for healing, growth, and recovery, processes that frequently necessitate guidance from supportive figures like coaches, healthcare professionals, or educators. Healing often thrives in collaboration.
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I have personally experienced the power of such partnerships. When clients expressed challenges related to mental health, academic issues, or familial relations, I refrained from exacerbating their fears with bleak predictions. Instead, I focused on identifying their inherent strengths, even when faced with setbacks. This approach is more effective than one might assume—often, setbacks can reveal underlying strengths and aspirations. In working closely with young individuals, it becomes apparent that their moments of disappointment offer invaluable opportunities for rebuilding and redefining their futures.
I would often ask my patients, “What do you envision for your life—not what your parents want, but what you desire?” Their thoughtful responses indicated readiness to collaborate on crafting a path toward their goals.
They were not seeking mere relief from their mental health symptoms; they yearned for a fulfilling life characterized by purpose, love, friendships, and success in areas they valued. When empowered, they developed resilience, born from confronting and overcoming their unique challenges.
The impact of the pandemic created significant academic and emotional disruptions for many children. Despite our understanding of strategies to overcome such challenges, including overcoming failures and recuperating from injuries, efforts to adequately support struggling youths remain insufficient. The recent downturn in reading and math scores reveals a continued decline in academic achievement that began even before the pandemic.
It is imperative to transform the narrative surrounding today’s youth, carefully acknowledging the profound setbacks experienced during the pandemic while steering clear of negative labeling and blame. While minimizing screen time can benefit many young individuals, the broader victory lies in providing them with tools and opportunities to uncover their strengths, enrich interpersonal relationships, and cultivate essential academic and social competencies. The focus should be on fostering engagement and channeling their energy into meaningful initiatives that resonate with them.
True healing hinges on relationships, hope, and time—not labels. Together, we can design a strategy to progress, breaking tasks into achievable parts and celebrating milestones as young people reach their objectives. They should not navigate this journey alone, as collaboration significantly enhances the healing process.
Pamela Cantor, M.D., is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who founded The Human Potential L.A.B. with a mission to harness scientific insights and technologies to maximize human potential.
Source
hechingerreport.org