In 2026, new data reveals a fascinating "optimism-anxiety paradox" among young people. They are simultaneously more hopeful about their own potential than they’ve been in years, yet deeply stressed by the world around them.

The teenage years are such a wild ride of emotions and new experiences that maintaining motivation for the things that ‘matter’ can be an occasional (OK… frequent!) challenge for some. And what matters will be different for different people, of course.

I’m increasingly asked two questions at schools and when I’m chatting with parents: “Is AI bad for my teen?” and “What should I be doing about it?” After reviewing the evidence here’s a clear, parent-friendly guide.