Bahrain teenagers are not immune to the beauty and dark side of young love, says expert

TDT | Manama                                 

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Zahra Ayaz

Young love has become a significant concern for teenagers, as it can lead to depression, social withdrawal, and poor academic performance.

Depression, a serious mental health condition, is increasingly prevalent among teenagers in the context of romantic relationships.

The emotional rollercoaster often accompanies young love can exacerbate pre-existing vulnerabilities, leading to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness.

The pressure to maintain a relationship, coupled with the fear of rejection or heartbreak, can be overwhelming for teenagers who are still developing their emotional coping mechanisms.

Dr. Aneesa Moidoo, a psychologist specialising in adolescent care, explains that teenagers often place unrealistic expectations on themselves and their relationships, leading to neglect of other essential aspects of their lives.

“During this phase, teenagers often place unrealistic expectations on themselves and their relationships, such as a constant need for presence, which leads to the neglect of other essential aspects of their lives.

“When these expectations are not met, the fear of rejection, coupled with intense emotions like jealousy, anger, and grief, paves the way for depression,” she added. Additionally, she said, “Teenagers may be more susceptible to making impulsive decisions.

Factors such as peer pressure and concerns about body image further contribute to depression in the context of romantic relationships.” Moidoo emphasizes the importance of parental and adult support in helping teenagers develop healthy relationships, learning effective communication, conflict resolution, and setting boundaries from adults.

By fostering supportive environments and providing necessary resources, teenagers can thrive emotionally and academically, even in the midst of their romantic pursuits.