Why Teens Today Seem So Moody

Why Teens Today Seem So Moody

Today’s adolescents (especially girls) are reporting record levels of sadness, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts compared to just a decade ago.

So, what’s behind this crisis? Matt Richtel (Pulitzer-winning journalist and author of a book on adolescence), spent years studying what makes today’s teenagers feel so overwhelmed.

Here’s his take…

The teenage brain is naturally more sensitive. It’s designed to soak up massive amounts of new information so teens can quickly learn from their surroundings. That works fine in a slower world, but today’s flood of tech and media leaves many kids overloaded.

There’s also a reason they rebel against their parents, Richtel says. Adolescents are wired to shift from being cared for by parents to learning how to care for themselves. That blank stare when you’re giving them advice? That’s evolution at work.

Previous generations of teens explored the world by climbing trees, sneaking out at night or taking physical risks. Today’s adolescents do much of that exploration inwardly, turning questions over and over in their minds. This inward focus can lead to fewer broken bones but more emotional distress.

So what can parents do?

When your teen says something irrational like, “Everyone in my grade hates me,” Richtel cautions against trying to reason with them. A stressed-out teen brain is like a frozen computer screen — adding more “data” won’t help.

Instead, he suggests helping kids regulate their emotions through coping tools like exercise, a cold shower or simply giving them space to vent before talking things through later.

And remember, even when it doesn’t feel like it, parents remain the most important influence in their kids’ lives.

Food of the Week: Olive Oil

Struggling with cholesterol? Consider swapping your butter with olive oil.

For thousands of years, people in the Mediterranean have built their meals around it, and modern research shows why: it’s full of antioxidants, healthy fats, and compounds that protect your body from within.

Health Benefits

• Heart – Lowers bad cholesterol and supports healthy blood pressure.

• Brain – Antioxidants may protect memory and slow cognitive decline.

• Anti-Inflammatory – Contains oleocanthal, a natural compound that works like ibuprofen.

• Longevity – Linked to lower risk of chronic diseases and longer life.

• Skin – Healthy fats help keep skin supple and glowing.

Who Benefits Most

• People with cholesterol issues.

• Older adults protecting brain and memory.

• People with inflammation-related issues.

• Athletes needing recovery support.

How to Use It

• Raw: Drizzle over salads, veggies, or grilled fish.

• Dips: Mix with herbs for bread or hummus.

• Cooking: Sauté or roast (but avoid burning it).

• Finishing: A splash on soups or pasta before serving.

Fun Fact

The ancient Greeks highly valued olive oil and used it not only in food but also as prestigious rewards in the Olympic Games. Victors were crowned with olive wreaths and gifted jars filled with their finest olive oil. 😎