Moody Maelstrom: Charting the Emotional Waters of Teenhood

Teenagers can be such a moody lot, can't they? They're at a pivotal moment in their lives where they're suddenly, painfully aware that every choice has a weight to it. Sure, they've been through exams like the PSLE at 12, but back then, they were just following their parents' lead, not truly grasping the gravity of it all. But hit 13 or 14, and it's like a switch is flipped. It's as if they're waking up, becoming self-aware. And with that comes the realisation that every move can shape their future in monumental ways.

I ask myself, who are these people who I hardly recognise anymore?

Life is challenging, in a uniquely first-world way. These young minds, yearning for simpler days of play, are abruptly plunged into an environment of competition and expectations, nudging them to discard their youthful innocence for maturity and responsibility. As they grapple with this transition, they juggle various roles, striving for excellence while chasing remnants of childhood dreams, some of which may sadly remain just that — dreams.

So, as a parent of teenagers (with one already beyond that age), I need to be attuned to their innermost battles. Life seemed simpler when I was their age - isn't that a sentiment every generation shares? Yet, perhaps we've glossed over our own adolescent tribulations. Back then, it wasn't labelled 'mental wellness' but rather teenage angst or stress. Still, the underlying emotions remain consistent, manifesting as moodiness and inexplicable anger. Often, it's a nebulous feeling of inadequacy or aimlessness, a fear that life might just pass you by without making any notable mark. It's as if everyone else seems to have it all figured out – so why don't I?

So here I am, unpacking teenage dilemmas, delving into their minds, analysing their thoughts and actions – yet coming up empty-handed. Every attempt at advice seems to weigh them down further; perhaps that's just a father's plight? Thus, I remain an observer from a safe distance (let's say about 3 metres), offering support when I can and occasionally chipping in with what I hope are encouraging words, as they navigate this phase of their lives.