Raising Girls Through Puberty: The Mental Health Risks No One Warns You About

There’s a moment, as a mother, when you look at your daughter and realise something is changing.She’s quieter. More emotional. More critical of herself.And you’re left wondering… is this normal, or is something deeper going on?In this episode, we sit down with psychologist Dr. Emma Waddington and physician Dr. Gina Hel to unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface for girls today.From earlier puberty and hormonal shifts to the impact of social media, friendships, and identity, this is a conversation every parent needs to hear.Because the reality is, girls aren’t just growing up differently… they’re growing up under more pressure than ever before.And if you’re a woman in your 40s, you might recognise something else too… parts of your own story reflected back at you.We cover:The subtle signs your daughter may be strugglingWhy puberty is starting earlierHow hormones affect mood, sleep and behaviourThe impact of social media on self-worthWhy friendships matter more than you realiseThe truth about body image in young girlsHow to build connection before adolescence hitsWhat helps girls feel confident and supportedIf you’re raising a daughter or trying to understand the pressures girls face today, this episode will shift how you see it all.🤝 SPONSORThank you to our sponsor Love, IndusEnjoy 21% off with code TFF👉 https://www.loveindus.com🔗 RESOURCES & LINKSOsler Health → https://www.osler-health.comUs Therapy → https://www.ustherapy.sgUntangled by Lisa Damour → https://amzn.to/4cWz8vcRun Like A Girl (Always) → https://youtu.be/qtDMyGjYlMg⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:00 Signs your daughter may be struggling05:00 Puberty and hormones07:30 Emotional shift in adolescence10:00 Brain development and social connection11:00 Social media and self-esteem14:00 Friendship dynamics16:00 Loneliness and online connection19:30 Body image and early pressure21:00 Parenting influence and identity27:00 Teaching girls to speak up34:00 Body image in sport39:30 Self-worth and achievement41:00 The pressure to be everything45:00 Parenting teens vs coaching