Growing Up Then and Now: A World Apart

This week I had the pleasure of speaking at a business event about 'Growing up today'. And at the end of this month, I’ll be stepping back into the 1980s for an 80s-themed party night with friends (watch this space for future photos!) Preparing for both of these events I've found myself transported back to a time that carries not just great music, but also great memories.

Like many of my generation, I remember racing home from school, dropping my bag by the door, and heading straight back out to 'play'. We stayed out until it got dark, cycling around the block, climbing trees, or knocking on a mate’s door just to see if they were free. There were no mobile phones, no social media — just bikes, back gardens, freedom, spontaneity, and a different kind of connection.

Dinner meant sitting around the table with family, catching up on the day. Evenings were for watching TV together - whether it was Blue Peter, John Craven’s Newsround or Swap Shop/Tiswas on a Saturday - we all knew what was on and when.

Of course, it wasn’t always easy. Every generation has its challenges. But there was a rhythm to life, a sense of space, and perhaps even a greater resilience that came from being allowed to explore the world, sometimes make mistakes, and learn from them.

Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape looks very different.

Today’s young people are growing up in an always-on, highly connected world — yet they’re arguably more isolated than ever. Many spend hours in their bedrooms, scrolling through social media feeds, gaming online, or feeling the weight of needing to ‘keep up’ in a world that never switches off. There’s less outdoor freedom, less unstructured play, and far more time spent navigating the complexities of a digital world.

The pressures are intense. Academic expectations are higher. Body image concerns are magnified by filtered photos and comparison culture. Many are overwhelmed by the news cycle — climate change, conflict, political uncertainty — things that seep into their consciousness daily. According to NHS data, 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 in England had a probable mental disorder in 2023 – a figure that’s doubled since 2017.

At Youth Talk , we see the sharp end of this. The young people coming through our doors are often struggling with deep anxiety, low mood, panic attacks, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts. Many have been waiting months for help — some have told no one else how they feel. For others, we are the only place they feel safe enough to open up.

It’s not to say that previous generations didn’t face challenges. But today’s world is such a different place – it feels more intense, more overwhelming, and less forgiving. And while the causes may be complex, one thing is clear: young people desperately need safe, non-judgmental spaces to talk — face-to-face, with someone who will really listen.

That’s why Youth Talk exists. We offer counselling that is free, confidential, and tailored to each young person’s needs. We don’t stop after 6 or 12 sessions. If a young person needs longer-term support, we’re there for them. Without us, I honestly believe that many would fall through the cracks.

We may not be able to turn back the clock — but we can offer young people something timeless: space to breathe, to be themselves, and to talk without fear or judgment.

At Youth Talk , that’s what we do every day. In a world that’s louder, faster, and more overwhelming than ever, we’re helping young people find their voice — and their way forward.

Growing up is a timeless journey – the world may have changed, but the need to be listened to and heard never has.