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Netflix’s latest hit series Adolescence has sparked widespread discussion about the turbulent teenage years. From heightened emotions to risky decision-making, the show paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to be a teen in today’s world. But how accurate is it? And what does neuroscience tell us about the adolescent brain?
South African neurofeedback specialist Kerry Rudman, founder of Brain Harmonics, weighs in on the science behind the series and offers insights into how neurofeedback can help teenagers navigate these critical years.
The adolescent brain is a work in progress. During this stage of development, the prefrontal cortex—responsible for reasoning, impulse control, and decision-making—is still maturing. Meanwhile, the amygdala, the brain’s emotional control center, is in overdrive. This explains why teenagers often act impulsively, struggle with emotional regulation, and experience intense highs and lows.
“What we see in Adolescence is a realistic depiction of teenage emotions running wild,” says Rudman. “But what many people don’t realize is that these reactions are biologically driven. Teens are not just being ‘difficult’—their brains are undergoing a complete rewiring.”
Today’s teenagers face unprecedented pressures—from academic stress and peer expectations to the constant exposure of social media. Adolescence highlights these challenges, showing how social comparison, online bullying, and digital overstimulation can affect mental well-being.
According to Rudman, excessive screen time and disrupted sleep patterns can exacerbate anxiety and depression in teens. “When sleep cycles are thrown off, the brain doesn’t get the deep restorative sleep it needs. This impacts focus, emotional stability, and cognitive function,”she explains.
While therapy and medication are often discussed as solutions for teenage mental health challenges, neurofeedback is emerging as a powerful, drug-free alternative.
Neurofeedback works by training the brain to regulate itself more effectively. By measuring brainwave activity and providing real-time feedback, this technology helps teens improve focus, reduce anxiety, and better manage their emotions. “Think of it as gym for the brain,” says Rudman. “With consistent training, we can teach the brain to function in a calmer, more balanced way.”
With adolescent mental health concerns on the rise in South Africa, Rudman believes that parents, educators, and healthcare professionals need to be more aware of non-invasive interventions like neurofeedback. “Shows like Adolescence shine a light on the struggles teens face, but they rarely offer solutions. We need to move beyond awareness and start discussing actionable ways to support young people’s mental health.”
For more information on how neurofeedback can support adolescent brain development, visit www.brainharmonics.co.za