3Being a teenager is difficult even under idyllic circumstances. But when bad things happen, the challenges of being a teenager can be overwhelming, leading to self-destructive behavior, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other challenges. In addition, many teens are faced with illness, car accidents, the loss of loved ones, divorces, or other upheavals, and the obstacles to happiness can seem insurmountable. Reading about the challenges in this book will help teens support themselves and learn about what their friends might be experiencing.