How Can We Help Teens?

In the past few years, the mental health of teenagers is worsening. The rates of severe depression among young people skyrocketed up to 8% in 2015.

That’s 1.8 million teens around the world. Studies have also added that 5% of American teenagers reported having an alcohol problem and substance use.

According to the World Health Organization, self-harm is the third leading cause of death in teens aged 15 to 19.

In 2016, in particular, there were approximately 62,000 adolescents who died because of suicide, according to WHO.

Risk factors include abuse in childhood, use of alcohol, barriers to accessing care, and more.

With the growing mental problem among teens, it poses a big responsibility for parents.

Now, what would you do to help keep your children safe, particularly during this Covid-19 pandemic?

Below, we present some things you could do. Let’s begin!

Build an Environment Where they Can Share their Feelings

Generally, as your children turn to adolescents, they become secretive with their feelings. They tend to be not expressive, whatever they are going thru.

As a parent, do not leave them like that. It is always best to establish an environment where they can easily share their thoughts and emotions.

Perhaps, you mostly spend your time in the office. But that is not an excuse. Always find time to check in with your kids.

Asking them how’s their day is a good idea. Or you could talk to them when you prepare and eat your dinner.

A few words of encouragement will also help. Praise them for what they do best. Then, let them feel that failing is still a great learning experience. Tell them that you will always be at their side whatever happens.

Every time your teens open up about what they experience at the moment, you would find it awkward at first.

But do not show any signs of discomfort. It is normal to struggle as a beginner. However, you will get used to it.

There is no other person that will understand your kids but you, right?

Be Supportive

You want the best for your children. But do not come to the point where you take over or tell them what to do. That’s a no-no for parenting.

As your children turn to teens, they want some independence. Give them both space and time to be on their own. They are not kids anymore. Instead of forcing them to follow what you always say, be supportive of everything they want.

While it is good for them to always stay at home and study, they also need to take a break. Encourage them to go out of their comfort zone. Provide them opportunities to find their interests and new hobbies.

It is all right if they find some things boring. Give them time to explore what they like and prefer. Allow them to take their time, and there is no pressure.

If they feel disappointed at school, speak with them. Give your teens some encouragement to find solutions for their problems.

If they fail, remind them that there is nothing wrong with committing mistakes. Teach your children how to learn to move on from every failure they make.

It is hard. But they will get used to it and become a better person.

Be With Them in Times of Conflict

Some parents do not listen to their teen’s views during a conflict. Do not do the same thing.

Although they are young, they have something to share that could probably solve what your family is going thru. We never know!

Another mistake that parents make is that they discuss a problem when they are angry. Again, it is not ideal. If you feel mad, that’s normal as you are only human. But instead of showing your anger, walk away. Then, take a deep breath and try to calm down. You can talk to your teens once you are ready.

Being a parent, you want to look strong in front of your kids. But that is not necessary. It is all right to be transparent with your children sometimes. Although it may not be ideal for others, it will give your teens an idea of how to solve the problem when they are in the same situation. You could even ask them for some pieces of advice, too.

Life is like a wheel. Not every day is good. There are times that we face dilemmas along the way. What matters is how you deal with it. Instruct your teens to take every problem as a challenge.

Take Good Care of Yourself

You are now a parent, and your priorities would change. Before, you only think of yourself. But since you have children, you would set aside what you want.

But remember that before you could support others, take good care of yourself. You could not give what you do not have, after all.

If you feel overwhelmed, do not feel ashamed to find someone to talk to. It could be your partner, friend, family member, or colleague. You would feel relieved having someone to trust and rely on when you feel down.

If you are not ready to open your situation to anyone, it is time to take a break. Despite your busy schedule in the office, take a leave. Plan out a short journey. Then, go to one of your top travel destinations. While there are many attractions to explore, nothing can beat being close to nature.

Listening to the chirpings of the bird, watching the blue ocean, and feeling the cold breeze from the sea are very fulfilling.

After a long week of travel, you will be more positive and passionate about your work.

You may also encounter other problems, but there are positive coping techniques you should try.

You could go to the gym, make a to-do list, create a routine, or find a new hobby.

Whether your children suffer from extreme anxiety or depression, seek help from a licensed medical professional specializing in counseling for teens right away.