Navigating the roller coaster of adolescence

By Kohana Dutta Choudhury

Adolescence is the phase of life between childhood and adulthood, spanning ages 10 to 19. During this period, adolescents undergo rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth. While the widely recognised definition captures the biological and developmental aspects, there is more to adolescence than meets the eye.

This stage is not just marked by physical growth but is also characterised by emotional turmoil. As adolescents, our thought processes evolve, allowing us to see the bigger picture. Often misconstrued as moody and troublesome, our actions are often attempts to conceal internal struggles. Although our deeds may seem misguided, the underlying intentions are pure.

Adolescents frequently feel that they hold no significance in others’ lives, making it challenging to open up about their feelings. Casual greetings like “How are you?” often garner generic responses like “I’m fine” or “I’m good.” However, when asked sincerely in a conversation, this question holds profound importance, particularly for those grappling with emotional challenges. The response becomes a window into their emotional world.

The pursuit of perfection during these formative years can lead to low self-confidence and a sense of being abnormal. It’s crucial to remind every teenager that individuality is perfection, and societal ideals of perfection are unrealistic. Adolescents should understand that they are perfect in their uniqueness, and comparing oneself to an unattainable standard only hampers self-esteem.

Traumatic incidents during adolescence can leave lasting scars. The current pandemic has brought loss and grief, and adolescents, in particular, grapple with the pressure to act normal while carrying the weight of these emotions. Many wear masks of indifference, concealing their true feelings behind a façade.

Adolescence is often likened to a roller coaster, representing a time of highs and lows. It is a period of learning, making mistakes, reflecting on them, and repeating the cycle. While challenging, this phase is also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, laying the foundation for adulthood.