Netflix's new series Adolescence has sparked widespread discussion, raising more questions than answers about the realities facing today’s teenagers. With young people consuming content at an unprecedented rate, and the pervasive influence of toxic masculinity from well-known content creators, the series arrives at a critical moment. But does it provide an accurate depiction of modern adolescence, and more importantly, what should parents take away from it?

It’s becoming increasingly common to hear clients say, “I just feel off lately. Like I’m waiting for something bad to happen”, or “it feels that there are terrible things happening everywhere, have we learnt nothing?”

They are not necessarily facing personal crises. In fact, many are doing well by external measures, holding steady jobs or going to school or university, supporting their families, staying physically healthy. But underneath it all, there’s a quiet, relentless hum of anxiety. And it’s not just individual stress. It’s something bigger: the psychological toll of living in a world that feels perpetually uncertain.

We all worry about our health from time to time. A sudden headache, an unusual sensation, or a lingering cough can trigger concern. But for some, these concerns don’t pass—they spiral into persistent fear, endless checking, and a desperate need for reassurance. This is the world of health anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), two conditions that share more in common than many realise.

When we think of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the first images that come to mind are often repetitive hand washing, meticulously arranged objects, or intrusive, distressing thoughts. While these are certainly part of the picture, the underlying forces that drive OCD are more complex than they appear. One of the most overlooked influences? Trauma.

Weight stigma is deeply ingrained in society, influencing how we think about bodies, health, and self-worth. Many parents who grew up in weight-focused households find it difficult to separate health from weight, often passing on these beliefs—intentionally or not—to their children. Research has consistently shown that weight stigma contributes to poor mental health outcomes, increases the risk of disordered eating, and does not improve long-term health or weight regulation. When parents shift their focus from weight to well-being, they create an environment where their children feel accepted, valued, and empowered to develop a positive relationship with their bodies.

Being a grandparent is often described as one of life’s greatest joys. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the love and connection of family without the day-to-day pressures of parenting. Grandparents can form deep, meaningful relationships with their grandchildren, providing support, guidance, and a sense of continuity between generations. Many grandparents find immense satisfaction in watching their grandchildren grow, sharing in their successes, and offering wisdom that comes from a lifetime of experience. The role of a grandparent allows for moments of fun, playfulness, and unconditional love, often free from the responsibilities and discipline required of parents.