ZenToks Publication

Chapter 2

Problems and Challenges faced by Adolescents

Abstract/Preface

Adolescence is one of the most stormy and transformative phases in human growth, marked by far-reaching physical, psychological, and social transformations that give rise to special vulnerabilities and difficulties. In today’s world, these classic developmental difficulties have been augmented by never-before-seen societal pressures, technological upheavals, and global uncertainties. Studies show that an estimated one in seven teens between 10-19 years old has a mental disorder, which contributes to 15% of the global disease burden in this age bracket (World Health Organization, 2025). All this by itself speaks to the enormity of the issues with today’s youth and the gravity of the situation for the need for thorough understanding and intervention measures. The importance of teen struggles goes well beyond the teenage years themselves. Most mental illnesses—psychotic and substance use disorders—have their onset by age 24, with 75% of all mental disorders someone may develop in their lifetime occurring during this protracted period of development [1]. This not only makes adolescence a time of transition but also a period of crucial intervention and support that can set one up for a lifetime