Issues faced by adolescents

I am so glad that I am not an adolescent in todays society!  Having finished high school in 1991, that time of my life seems like it was forever ago and that is OK by me.  Adolescents seem to be faced with so many more issues and pressures than I ever remember.  The ones mentioned in our course readings (body image, eating disorders, disabilities and mental health) cover only a few of the obstacles that adolescents will face.  Within the Home Economics discipline, we are constantly trying to relay the message about healthy eating and lifestyles but have to be so aware of the differing situations of the students around us.  I am always very careful not to make assumptions, generalisations or judgements regarding particular topics because I am not aware of what is going on in the student lives outside of the classroom.  These topics would include such things as body image, eating disorders, self worth and family arrangements. 
It levels of committment of some of these students amazes me.  Not only are they trying to find themselves in what must be a difficult transitional period of life, but on top of this, they also have to worry about finishing high school, working out what they want to do when they leave, work part-time, play sport, socialise with friends..........and the list goes on.  They are so busy!  In one mouthful we are telling them that they need to enjoy their adolescence and the next we are insisting that they take responsibility for their learning and lives.  I would imagine it must be very difficult to find the perfect blend.
I guess what I am trying to say is that as a Learning Manager, I need to take into consideration the pressures and issues facing adolescents when I am planning my learning experiences.  It is unrealistic to think that I could know everything about each and every student, but I must try and find that connection that allows me to be the very best educator that I can...