
Why Anxiety is Exploding Among Young People | Dr Alfiee
From Free Thinking with Montel by Montel Williams
May 12, 2026 · 59 min · Episode 149
About this episode
Montel Williams discusses the youth mental health crisis with Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, exploring anxiety, cultural identity, and resilience.
#MentalHealth #YouthMentalHealth #FreeThinkingWithMontel What does it really mean to help young people thrive in a world filled with anxiety, pressure, isolation, and identity-based challenges? On this episode of Free Thinking with Montel, Montel sits down with pioneering psychologist, scientist, and mental health advocate Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble to discuss the growing youth mental health crisis—and why traditional systems often fail the very young people who need support the most. Drawing from more than 30 years of research, clinical care, and community work, Dr. Alfiee shares insights from her powerful new book Rise and Thrive, a culturally grounded mental health toolkit designed to help young people move beyond survival and into healing, resilience, and self-empowerment. Together, Montel and Dr. Alfiee explore: Why anxiety and depression are rising among young people The unique mental health challenges facing youth of color, LGBTQAI+ youth, and other marginalized communities How identity and culture shape emotional wellbeing The impact of social media and digital overload Parenting in a new era of emotional complexity Black youth suicide prevention and systemic gaps in care…
People in this episode
Host: Montel Williams
Guest: Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble
Topics covered
- youth mental health
- anxiety
- resilience
- cultural identity
- social media impact
- mental health challenges
Keywords
- mental health
- youth
- anxiety
- depression
- resilience
- cultural challenges
- social media
- self-empowerment
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Rise and Thrive
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