This event is made possible by sponsorship from industry organisations, including pharmaceutical companies. RCPCH independently curates the programme to ensure high-quality, balanced and unbiased content. Sponsors have no influence over the scientific content. Sessions that include input from sponsors will be clearly identified on the programme.

Thirty years of change: Has it been too much for young people?

Time slot
Monday 11 May 2026 - 11:00-12:15
Room
Hall 5
Session type
Workshop

About this workshop

Life as a teenager in 2025 is vastly different from life in the 1990's. Today’s young people have seen the rise of social media, gaming and smartphones, lived through the COVID‑19 pandemic and witnessed increases in obesity and mental health concerns.

This interactive workshop explores the effect these shifts have had on adolescent development, health and emotional well‑being. Drawing on current evidence and clinical experience, we will examine the implications of these significant societal changes for paediatric practice, policy, and safeguarding.

Join us to critically assess whether these changes have overwhelmed today’s teenagers, and the tools we have to support them.

Speakers

  • Dr Amy Taylor
  • Dr Najette Ayadi O'Donnell
  • Dr Jaymie Huckridge
Clinical: Mental health and neurodiversity