There are times in a teenager’s life where they can be hurting and looking for outlets that may or may not be healthy. This could mean acting out, being distant, or being self-destructive. It is crucial to watch out for these signs as a parent.
Remember that there are lots of things you can do to make sure your teen is becoming a strong, healthy adult. Growing up means learning about your hobbies, style, and necessary coping mechanisms. Keep these tips in mind to help them get them through a hard time.
Assert yourself as an ally
Step one in getting your teen through their struggles is showing them that you are there for them. You need to let them know they can trust you, so they will feel comfortable confiding in you as a parent and a friend.
Some teens live in fear that they are letting down their parents when their parents are supposed to be who uplift them the most. Showing your teen that they are loved and appreciated no matter what will get them where they need to be to let you into their world.
Spend quality time with them
If your teen is struggling, bring them back to the roots of something they enjoy. Maybe school work or social obligations are getting in their way of relaxing. This is your cue as a parent to plan a weekend fishing trip or a night at the movies.
Plan something special to remind your teen that they can still take time out of their week for something they love. This is also a technique to teach them that things are going to get busier and busier as they age. It is crucial to learn to take a break and enjoy yourself in your teen years and moving forward.
This is a great excuse to figure out what new hobbies they’re interested in. Growing up means growing into new likes and dislikes. Ask your teen about instruments they want to learn or extracurricular classes they have been wanting to give a shot.
Help them express themselves
Growing up means doing your best to discover and navigate your personal style. This is where it can be nice to have the guidance of a parent to make things less intimidating.
Let your teenager know that expressing themselves is supposed to be a fun part about growing up. A way to make this a positive activity is by taking them to the mall or their favorite online sites. There are tons of teen-friendly shops online that you can explore together to find some adventurous outfits.
When they have fun clothing pieces like a gold lion head ring, it can boost their confidence and help them think positive thoughts. They are past the age of wearing whatever their mom picks out, but they still might need your trusty guidance. What better way than some fresh style to instill some confidence?
Take precautions with their mental health
If it is mental health that is bringing them down, don’t fear! Have an open discussion about mental health programs like the Polaris Teen Center programs for troubled youth. This is a place they can go to and learn to cope with and overcome mental health issues. Teach your teen that asking for help is an empowering thing to do.
No matter how severe they feel their mental health problems are, therapy is always an option. Group therapy also can help teenagers see that there are other people out there in the same age group with extremely similar issues.
Being a teenager feels isolating and can cause some troublesome months or even years. Be there for your teen in these ways, and they will flourish into the adult they are destined to be.
