Today marks the inaugural International Teen Appreciation Day (ITAD), a global initiative launched by UK social enterprise Rocking Ur Teens to remind adolescents they are valued for who they are, not just their achievements.
The campaign arrives amid growing concerns about teenage wellbeing, with experts warning that young people face unprecedented challenges from mental health pressures to economic uncertainty.
The alarming statistics behind teen struggles
Recent research paints a concerning picture of teenage life in Britain. According to YoungMinds, one in five young people aged 8-25 in the UK has a probable mental health condition, with the highest rates occurring among 17-19-year-olds.
Economic prospects appear equally daunting for this generation, with Statista revealing that 14.1% of 16-24-year-olds are unemployed - nearly triple the national average.
Perhaps most strikingly, a BSI Group study found that 47% of teenagers would prefer to grow up without the internet due to its negative effects, highlighting the complex relationship young people have with digital technology.
Why today's teenagers are facing unique pressures
Jenny Garrett OBE, who co-created Rocking Ur Teens after witnessing her own daughter's struggles, explains that while teenagers have always faced challenges, modern pressures are amplified.
"Teenagers have always had peer pressure and friendship troubles, but it's multiplied via social media," Jenny states. "They're forced into comparison and down algorithmic black holes and can't get away from devices."
The parenting expert emphasises that the pandemic significantly compounded these issues: "They've lived through a pandemic which raised their anxiety levels to mammoth proportions, from being stuck at home with bullying siblings to worrying about getting behind on schoolwork."
Breaking through the communication barrier
Jenny observes that many teenagers will claim they're 'fine' when they're not, making it crucial for parents to look beyond surface-level responses.
"Talking to them casually without judging and doing things together is so important," she advises. "They may not look you in the eye and they may seem like they're not listening, but they will be."
The expert recommends side-by-side conversations during activities like walking or car journeys, where eye contact isn't required and discussions can flow more naturally.
Practical strategies for connecting with teens
For parents struggling to engage reluctant teenagers, Jenny suggests entering their world: "Do something they want to do like listen to the music that they are into, watching the show they like, even if it makes you cringe inside."
She also recommends showing appreciation through small gestures: "Cook their favourite meal. Acknowledge what they do well, not just the fact that they've left the dishes in the sink - again."
Quick-fire tips for supporting teenage wellbeing
- Create regular rituals like weekly walks or special breakfasts together
- Instead of asking 'How was school?' try 'What made you laugh today?'
- Show them they don't have to be perfect to be appreciated
- Share your own imperfections and how you bounce back from setbacks
- Notice small changes in their interests or friendships and mention them casually
International Teen Appreciation Day serves as a timely reminder that simple gestures of understanding and appreciation can make a significant difference to how young people view themselves and their place in the world.
