In this specially curated three-part podcast series from The BMJ, we explore the importance of community and connection to foster adolescent wellbeing.
 
The discussion covers athe  wide array of issues young people face, with a particular focus on the unique challenges of adolescence from a social perspective. The episode unpacks the significance of having supportive relationships within families, schools, and communities and the influence of these relationships on the mental and behavioural health outcomes of adolescents. 
 
It also explores the impact of digitalization on adolescent connection, with discussions on how to balance online interactions with offline engagements. Importantly, it highlights the need for further research into understanding digital and social media interactions and their influence on the health and wellbeing of adolescents in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
 
Our guests:
Ulises Ariel Vélez Gauna, Transmitiendo Diversidad
Flavia Bustreo, Fondation Botnar 
Richard Dzikunu, YIELD Hub
Shelani Palihawadana, Young Experts Tech for Health.
Joanna Lai, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEFUnicef)
Hosted by Adam Levy



Supported by the Fondation Botnar and PMNCH, the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health. Read the full cCollection of articles showing the importance of investing in adolescent wellbeing.



00:04 Introduction to the podcast series
00:36 Understanding adolescence from a social perspective
01:00 The impact of community and connection on adolescents
01:07 Personal experiences: growing up as an LGBT+ teenager
01:38 The role of supportive relationships in adolescents' lives
02:05 The importance of connectedness in adolescence and beyond
03:27 Treating safe spaces for LGBT+ adolescents
05:23 The unique role of community during adolescence
07:02 The impact of political landscape on LGBT+ community
07:54 The importance of community and connectedness: expert opinions
08:56 The interconnection of social, health, and educational well-being
12:14 The role of digital technology in adolescents' lives
16:56 The importance of investing in adolescents' well-being
43:18 The role of schools in fostering connectedness
45:41 Conclusion: personal reflections on connectedness