Love and Relationships

Teenagers today are breaking free from the rebellious stereotype of past generations—but it comes at a cost.

From all indications, they are reshaping adolescence itself. Unlike their predecessors, many Gen Z teens are steering clear of risky behaviours like smoking, drinking, and drug use.

They’re also less likely to clash with the law or engage in violence. On the surface, this looks like good news—a sign that young people are making healthier, more responsible decisions.

Yet, parents and caregivers are noticing a far more troubling trend. Beneath the image of a well-behaved generation lies a silent epidemic of emotional pain. Increasing numbers of teens are wrestling with depression, anxiety, and self-harm. Many also struggle with body image, sleep issues, and loneliness, even while appearing to do all the “right” things.

“I used to worry about my son getting into the wrong crowd,” says Mrs. Eniola, a mother of two. “Now, I worry more when he’s in his room for hours, barely talking, always online. He’s not partying or misbehaving, but he’s not okay either.”

It’s a shift leaving many parents concerned. Teachers, too, are reporting rising burnout and emotional fragility among students. Teens are under constant pressure to excel, fit in, and stay visible in a hyper-connected world. Social media is both their stage and their mirror, reflecting impossible standards they feel compelled to meet.

Disturbingly, many teens today are sleeping less, eating poorly, and withdrawing socially while presenting an outward calm. Mr. Okoye Akume, a counsellor at Nyanya Secondary School, observed: “We used to expect teenagers to rebel. Now, many of them are simply overwhelmed. They’re not fighting rules; they’re fighting their own thoughts.”

While fewer teens are acting out publicly, many are quietly battling struggles that are harder to notice and harder to treat.

Parents are realising that a quiet child isn’t always a happy child. High grades, neat appearances, and good behaviour can easily hide emotional suffering.

Caregivers are calling for more open conversations, less pressure, and stronger emotional education.

They believe families and schools must focus not only on discipline and academics but also on nurturing resilience and emotional intelligence.

The reality is, Gen Z isn’t acting out—they’re burning out.

Unless greater attention is paid to what’s happening beneath the surface, society risks losing a generation that appears fine on the outside but is silently crumbling within.

Marriage is often seen as a lifelong commitment, but the reality is that many couples face challenges that can strain their relationship. While no marriage is immune to difficulties, understanding the prominent causes of divorce can help couples identify potential issues early and work together on solutions.

Here are six of the most common reasons marriages end, along with tips on how to overcome them:

Communication Breakdown

Poor communication is one of the leading causes of divorce. When couples stop talking openly and honestly, misunderstandings and resentment build over time. To avoid this, prioritize regular, meaningful conversations. Active listening, patience, and empathy can make a significant difference in preventing miscommunication and keeping the connection strong.

Infidelity

Cheating, whether physical or emotional, is a major breach of trust and can deeply damage a relationship. If you or your partner have faced infidelity, seeking professional help like marriage counseling can assist in rebuilding trust. Remember, healing from betrayal takes time, but with commitment and effort from both sides, restoration is possible.

Financial Stress

Money problems are a common source of marital tension, often leading to anxiety and conflict. Differences in spending habits, financial priorities, and lack of openness can fuel disputes. To tackle this, couples should discuss finances openly, create a joint budget, and set shared goals. Transparency and teamwork in managing money can ease financial stress and safeguard the relationship.

Growing Apart

As individuals grow and evolve, couples may drift apart when their interests, goals, or values change. Staying connected requires conscious effort. Regularly spend quality time together, nurture your emotional bond, and make deliberate attempts to keep the romance alive, even amidst life’s challenges.

Unresolved Conflict

Disagreements are inevitable, but failing to resolve them effectively can damage the relationship. Constant arguments, silent treatment, or holding grudges without solutions can create emotional distance. Learning to compromise, fight fair, and approach conflicts as opportunities for growth is essential to prevent issues from escalating.

Lack of Intimacy

Physical and emotional intimacy is vital for a thriving marriage. A lack of closeness can make partners feel neglected and disconnected. Rekindle the spark by prioritizing affection and emotional support. Small gestures like holding hands, expressing love, and sharing your feelings can help restore intimacy and strengthen the bond.

In any marriage, challenges are part of the journey. What matters most is how you tackle them together. By understanding the common causes of divorce and working proactively to nurture your relationship, you can face obstacles as a team and build a stronger, lasting connection. Communication, trust, and mutual growth remain the foundation of a healthy, thriving marriage.