Why might young people experience more stress than adults?

Young people often experience more stress than adults primarily because they lack the lessons and experiences that come with age and maturity. This absence of experience can leave them ill-equipped to handle the numerous challenges and pressures they face, such as academic demands, social relationships, and identity formation. Adults have generally navigated similar situations over time, learning coping strategies and resilience that help them manage stress effectively.

In contrast, young individuals are often encountering these challenges for the first time, which can magnify their stress levels. They may not yet have developed the skills to process their emotions or approach problems in a constructive manner. This lack of experience can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, contributing significantly to their overall stress compared to adults who may have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experiences that they draw upon in stressful situations.