2026 Pediatric Update (On-Demand)-Dr. Kendorski Adolescent Mental Health Stressors

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Jessica Kandorsky discusses the mental health challenges teens face during high school transitions. She explains that adolescents are under increasing stress from social media, academic pressure, sports, dating, family conflict, financial strain, and post-pandemic isolation. Research shows rising anxiety and depression in children and teens, while mental health emergency visits for self-harm, drug poisonings, and eating disorders have increased.<br /><br />She emphasizes that teens often respond to stress through fight, flight, or freeze behaviors, especially when they have experienced trauma. Trauma can affect identity, memory, trust, emotional regulation, and relationships. Kandorsky stresses that even one supportive adult can be a major protective factor, along with academic success or a meaningful activity.<br /><br />The presentation recommends practical support strategies: active listening, naming emotions, helping teens problem-solve, encouraging mindfulness, promoting healthy routines, lowering unrealistic expectations, and building realistic optimism. Parents and professionals are urged to watch for changes that are “not like the teen,” not just obvious red flags. She also encourages families to seek help from schools, counselors, psychologists, social workers, and physicians when concerns arise.

Keywords

teen mental health

high school transitions

adolescent stress

social media pressure

trauma response

anxiety and depression

self-harm prevention

supportive adults

mindfulness and coping