Teen Brain 7 Things To Know
Teen Brain 7 Things To Know
Teen Brain 7 Things To Know
Did you know that big and important changes happen in the brain during
adolescence? Here are seven things to know about the teen brain:
1 Adolescence is an important
time for brain development.
Although the brain stops growing in size by early adolescence,
the teen years are all about fine-tuning how the brain works.
The brain finishes developing and maturing in the mid-to-late
20s. The part of the brain behind the forehead, called the
prefrontal cortex, is one of the last parts to mature. This area
is responsible for skills like planning, prioritizing, and making
good decisions.
Finding help
If you or someone you know has a mental illness, is struggling emotionally, or has concerns about their
mental health, there are ways to get help. Find more information at www.nimh.nih.gov/findhelp.
Talking openly with your doctor or other health care provider can improve your care and help you both
make good choices about your health. Find tips to help prepare for and get the most out of your visit at
www.nimh.nih.gov/talkingtips.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide &
Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.
www.nimh.nih.gov
NIH Publication No. 23-MH-8078
Revised 2023