Adolescence Series Review: A Heartfelt Mirror to Our Teens, Through an Indian Lens

As a mom of two little girls, I often wonder what the teenage years will bring — the emotions, the questions, the growing pains. Recently, I watched a series titled Adolescence, and it left me reflecting deeply on what our kids go through as they transition from childhood to adulthood.

This series doesn’t just show teenage drama; it captures those in-between years with honesty — the messy, confusing, emotional rollercoaster that so many of us, as parents, either forget or overlook.

More Than Just Teenage Angst

We often dismiss teenage mood swings as “just a phase.” But Adolescence reminds us that there’s a world of feelings behind those slammed doors and silent dinners. From peer pressure and identity crises to first crushes and body image issues, the show dives into real problems — and does it without being preachy.

One scene that stayed with me was when a boy hides his panic attacks from his parents, fearing they’ll see him as weak. That hit hard. In Indian households, mental health is still such a hush-hush topic. We’re quick to tell kids to “be strong” or “stop overthinking” — forgetting that emotional pain is just as real as physical pain.

Our Culture Shapes Their Struggles

Indian culture, beautiful as it is, can be tough on growing minds. There’s a lot of “what will people say?” pressure. A teenage girl in the series is judged for wearing a sleeveless top — not by strangers, but by her own family. And we’ve seen this in real life too, haven’t we? Girls are expected to behave, dress, and even feel a certain way.

Boys, on the other hand, are told not to cry — to “man up.” But emotions don’t come with a gender label. The show does a great job of showing how these expectations suffocate our kids quietly.

Double Lives — One for Us, One for Themselves

What struck me most was how teens in the series live double lives — one version for their parents, and another for the world. They hide relationships, lie about where they’re going, pretend to be okay when they’re not.

It’s not because they’re trying to rebel — it’s because they don’t feel safe enough to share their truth. That made me pause as a mom. Are we truly creating a space where our kids can open up without fear of judgment?

Adolescence Series Review: A Heartfelt Mirror to Our Teens, Through an Indian Lens

East Meets West: The Everyday Conflict

Today’s teens grow up in a global world. They scroll through Instagram, follow K-dramas, and soak up international trends. But many of them live in homes where traditional values still run deep. That constant cultural tug-of-war is real. And Adolescence doesn’t shy away from showing how confusing that can be.

Why Every Indian Parent Should Watch This

Adolescence isn’t just for teens — it’s for us, the parents too. It gently urges us to see our children not as extensions of ourselves, but as individuals trying to figure out their place in the world.

We may not have had open conversations with our parents when we were younger — but maybe, just maybe, we can do things differently now.

Let’s listen more. Judge less. Trust more. And hold space for their growing, changing, sometimes fragile world.

After all, adolescence isn’t just a phase. It’s a journey. And our kids need us — not to control it, but to walk alongside them.

This post is a part of the BlogChatter a2z challenge!

You can read my other a2z posts here:

A – Importance of Self-Care: Why Moms Need a Spring Reset

B – Decluttering Your Mind: Simple Practices to Reduce Stress

C – Mom Guilt: How to Overcome and Prioritize Yourself

D – Power of Saying No: Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

E – Easy Mindfulness Practices for Busy Moms

F – Journaling for Moms: A Guide to Self-Reflection and Growth

G – Mindful Motherhood: How to Stay Present and Enjoy Motherhood Without Overwhelm

H – Hydration for Moms: Why Moms Need More Water and How to Drink More

I – Fitness for Moms: How to Start a Simple Workout Routine That Fits a Mom’s Busy Schedule

J – Skincare for Moms: Self-Care Through Skincare – A Simple Routine for Radiant Skin