Meditation and Teen Wellbeing: A Simple Tool for a Complex World
The following is a message from our Head of Wellbeing, Ms Kirsty McEacharn.
In today’s fast-paced world, many teenagers face high levels of stress — from academic pressure to social demands and digital distractions. Meditation offers a practical and evidence-based way to support young peoples’ wellbeing by helping them manage stress, build emotional regulation, and improve focus.
What Is Meditation?
Meditation is a simple practice that involves focusing the mind to achieve a state of calm and clarity. While it has ancient roots, modern research supports its benefits for both emotional and physical health. Meditation can be practised anywhere — sitting quietly, walking, listening to music, or even through guided apps.
Why It Matters for Teens
Adolescence is a critical time for emotional development. Meditation supports this by helping teens:
- Lower stress and anxiety
- Improve sleep and mood
- Develop greater self-awareness and focus
- Build resilience in handling everyday challenges
- Reduce negative thinking patterns
Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.
Practical Tips for Home
Parents can support their teens by modelling simple mindfulness strategies at home:
- Try 3–5 minutes of deep breathing or quiet reflection at the end of the day
- Explore guided meditation apps such as Smiling Mind (free and Australian-made)
- Encourage screen-free time before bed with gentle music or mindfulness
Meditation doesn’t need to be perfect or formal — it simply needs to be practiced regularly.
A Complement, Not a Cure
While meditation is not a replacement for professional mental health support when needed, it can be a helpful tool in a broader wellbeing toolkit. Schools, families, and communities all play a role in helping young people build the lifelong habit of caring for their mental health. – Adapted from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/meditation/in-depth/meditation/art-20045858
