Category: Teen Counseling

Relationship dynamics between parent and child can sometimes feel like navigating through a maze. With many twists, turns, and dead ends, communication often feels painful and confusing. As parents, we want our children to feel comfortable confiding in us, yet sometimes it seems they would rather hole up in their bedrooms than spend quality time with us.

So, how do we build this connection and create an environment where our teens feel safe and supported in opening up to us? While it may seem straightforward, the answer can often be found through listening.

The Power of Listening

Listening is not just about hearing words; it’s about understanding emotions, concerns, and underlying messages behind them. In a world filled with distractions, giving our teens undivided attention can help them feel important. Our attention tells them that they matter and that their thoughts and feelings are valid.

When we truly to listen to others, we create a safe space for self-expression without fear of judgement or criticism. Listening is a useful skill, especially while navigating the challenging teenage years and working with our children as they try to find a place in this world.

Tips to Build Open Communication

Be Present

Put away any and all distractions, such as smartphones and television, and make direct eye contact with your teen while they are speaking to you. Show them through actions that they have your full attention and value what they have to say.

Practice Empathy

Try to see things from your teen’s perspective. Empathize with their struggles and validate their emotions, even if you may not agree with their point of view.

Avoid Judgement

Keep an open mind and refrain from jumping to conclusions or criticizing their choices. Remember, your teen is more likely to confide in you if they feel accepted and understood.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid the typical “yes or no” response questions and utilize more open-ended questions that encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings. For example, instead of asking “Did you have a good day at school?” try asking “What was the best part of your school day?”

Respect Their Privacy

While it is important to be involved in your teen’s life, respect their boundaries and give them space when they need it. Avoid prying or interrogating them about every detail of their life. This can backfire and actually push them away, making it less likely that they will want to open up to you.

Be Patient

Building trust and fostering open communication takes time. Be patient with your teen and let them know that no matter what, you will always be there for them.

Creating Opportunities for Connection

Throughout the day, it is important to find time to connect with your teen and utilize the skills previously mentioned. Here are some ways to build this connection:

• Family Dinners: Make it a priority to sit down for dinner together as much as possible. Use this time to catch up on each other’s day, tell stories, and engage in meaningful conversations.
• Quality Time: Find activities that you and your teen will enjoy doing together, such as watching a movie, going for a walk outside, or playing a game.
• Taking Interest: Show genuine interest in your teen’s activities, hobbies, and passions. Try to attend their events and take active interest in what they value.
• Technology Free Zones: Try to make certain areas of your home (e.g. dinner table or living room) “tech-free zones” where family members can disconnect from technology and interact face-to-face.
• Open Door Policy: Inform your teen that at any point, your door is always open for them to come and talk.
• Mental Health Counseling: Family counseling can be a great way to learn how to communicate effectively and actively listen to one another. Reach out and schedule a session today!

As a parent, one of the most challenging aspects of raising a teenager is navigating their emotional well-being. Teenage years are marked by significant life changes, both physical and emotional. It is not uncommon for adolescents to experience feelings of stress, confusion, and even despair.

Unfortunately, these intense emotions can escalate to the point where they contemplate or even attempt suicide. It’s a heartbreaking reality that no parent wants to face, but understanding the factors that contribute to teen suicide, and understanding how to best support them, is essential in preventing such tragedies. Let’s talk about what parents should know.

Recognize Warning Signs

The first step in preventing teen suicide is knowing what signs to watch out for. While every teenager is different, common indicators that a teen may be struggling with thoughts of suicide include:

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Withdrawal from friends and social supports
• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
• Expressions of hopelessness and worthlessness
• Giving away prized possessions

Paying attention to these warning signs and taking them seriously is crucial with providing timely intervention.

Understanding Risk Factors

Teen suicide is often a result of a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. While there is no singular cause, certain risk factors can increase a teenager’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. These risk factors may look like:

• History of mental illness
• Substance abuse
• Family history of suicide
• Experiences of childhood trauma or abuse
• Bullying
• Academic pressures
• Identity struggles

Creating Open Communication

One of the most important things parents can do to support their teenager’s mental health is to create an environment of open communication. Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns without fear of judgment. Listen actively and validate their emotions, even if you may not understand or agree with them. Be present and attentive, and no matter what, let your child know that they can come to you with anything they are going through.

Promoting Healthy Coping Strategies

Help your teenager develop healthy coping skills to manage stress and navigate through difficult emotions. Encourage activities that promote relaxation and self-care, such as:

• Exercise
• Mindfulness practice
• Journaling
• Spending time outside
• Eating three meals a day
• Getting adequate sleep
• Taking care of personal hygiene

Teach your child problem-solving techniques and how to find healthy ways to release their emotions, such as talking to a trusted friend or adult instead of resorting to self-harm or isolation.

Limiting Access to Lethal Means

Limiting access to lethal means, such as locking away firearms or medications, can significantly reduce the risk of suicide. If you have any of these in your home, ensure that they are securely stored and inaccessible to your teen. Take proactive steps to remove any potential means of self-harm from your child’s environment.

Fostering a Supportive Environment

A supportive and nurturing environment within your family can help reduce suicidal risk. Strengthen family bonds through quality time spent together, shared activities, and meaningful conversations. Encourage healthy relationships with peers and role models who provide positive influences and support. Let your teenager know that they are loved unconditionally and that help is available whenever they need it.

Seek Professional Help

If you suspect that your teenager may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors, do not hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Reach out to a therapist or a psychiatrist who can assess your child’s needs and provide appropriate treatment. In some severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure your child’s safety. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and it’s essential to prioritize your child’s well-being above all else. Reach out and schedule a session today.

Congrats, grad! Finishing high school is a major milestone in one’s life and it’s a time for celebration and cheer! What comes next? Well, perhaps you have made the decision to further your education and enter college. This is an exciting time and marks the beginning of an entirely new journey.

Enrolling in college also leads to feelings of uneasiness and nervousness. Pre-college anxiety is entirely normal, however it will be important to manage these feelings to make the transition smoother. Whether it’s worrying about academics, social life, or leaving home, here are some strategies that may be helpful for navigating this nerve-wracking time.

1. Seek Support

The overwhelming sensations of transitioning to college can feel suffocating, but remember that you are not alone. Seek support from friends, family, teachers, or other trusted individuals in your life who have gone through similar experiences.

Talking with your friends can provide you with reassurance and validation that this can be a scary time for everyone. Older family members and teachers may have experienced the transition to college themselves. Reach out and ask for their advice how to effectively manage nerves surrounding this major change.

2. Stay Organized

A big source of stress can stem from feeling unprepared or uncertain about what lies ahead. You can overcome this stress by staying organized and proactive with your preparation.

• Do research about your college and if possible, take multiple tours of the campus before the first day.
• Know how and when to register for classes. Meet with an academic advisor to help with scheduling.
• Arrange housing if needed and create a check list of dorm room essentials to obtain before move-in.
• Prepare school supplies such as writing utensils, notebooks, or textbooks before the first day.
• Once enrolled in classes, read over the syllabus so you may be prepared for upcoming tests and assignments.

Break down these tasks into smaller, more manageable ones if you start to feel too overwhelmed. Start your preparations at the beginning of summer so you have a few months to accomplish them all.

3. Practice Self-Care

It can be easy to lose yourself in the stress of college preparation. Make sure to carve out time to take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, eat adequate meals, and engage in pleasurable activities that help you relax and unwind.

Enjoy the freedom of summer and spending time with high-school friends. Get outside and enjoy the sunshine, take some walks through nature, and manage your stress as best you can. Taking care of your physical and mental health will help better prepare you for college.

4. Connect with Peers

College campuses will often provide their incoming students with many opportunities for socialization. Take advantage of these events and branch out to meet new people. With the advantages of social media, it is even possible to find online groups with individuals who are starting school the same time you are.

Consider joining clubs, sports, or student organizations to make new friends and explore new interests while at school. You can even try to meet up with your new roommate before you officially move in together. While it can feel scary, try not to limit yourself socially.

5. Focus on Positives

During life transitions, we can unintentionally start to play the “what if” game. “What if I fail my classes?” and “What if I don’t make friends?” or “What if I don’t like my major?” These anxieties can eat us alive. That is why it’s important to develop a positive mindset when preparing for college. Visualize your goals and what you want to achieve in life. Remind yourself that this is a time for personal growth, and that no matter what happens, you tried your absolute best.

If you find yourself still struggling with pre-college anxiety, seeking help from a mental health counseling  is the best way to prepare. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help!

 

 One of the most significant milestones in a teenager’s life is the college application process. As exciting as it is, it can also be one of the most stressful times — especially for an already anxious teen. There are many options to weigh, such as choosing the right schools, creating the perfect admissions essay, maintaining sufficient grades, and applying for scholarships.

The journey to higher education may start to feel more like uncertainty. As a parent, it can be difficult to watch your teen struggle with nerves, so it is important to love and support your child through this process and help them navigate the challenges as they come.

Start Early

The earlier the better! Most schools have an early admissions process for future students to complete. Starting early helps break down the tasks so they do not seem so overwhelming. It allows the teen to take their time and not feel so rushed to send in their application.

Create an achievable timeline with deadlines for completing standardized tests, application submissions, and financial aide. Being prepared like this may alleviate any additional stress.

Open Communication

With anxiety comes the potential for isolation. Reassurance and talking through any unpleasant feelings can help your child feel more comfortable with their college applications. Give them a safe space to process any fear, doubts, and career aspirations that may be weighing on their minds. Demonstrate active listening and validation for their thoughts and feelings. Teens will relish in the comfort as their parent acts as a trusted confidant.

Provide Guidance, Not Pressure

It’s natural for parents to want the best for their children. In doing so, however, they may provide unnecessary pressure without realizing it. Offer support and guidance without applying personal expectations. You can help them research, apply, brainstorm and prepare, but empower them to make their own choices and voice their own opinions about their future.

Manage Expectations

It’s important to provide your teen with realistic expectations about the college application process. Rejection is natural and a part of the journey. It does not mean they are not good enough or that they are failures. Come up with a plan to deal with possible rejection and encourage your child to keep an open mind about different schools. Remind them that the goal is not to get into the best of the best schools, but to find one that fits their academic, social, and personal goals.

Practice Self-Care

Along with anxiety comes the ability to neglect physical and emotional needs. Encourage your teen to prioritize getting enough sleep, eating healthier, exercising, and practicing stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation. Model these behaviors yourself and educate your child on the importance of caring for yourself. This is great practice for when they go off to college as well!

Celebrate All Achievements

It can be easy to get lost in the stress and business of applying. Remember to pause and celebrate with your child all the successes they complete, no matter how small. Celebrate finishing their essay, receiving a positive letter of recommendation, and sending in that first application! Acknowledge their growth and achievements as they happen. This will increase their confidence and help them learn to think positively about themselves. Positive reinforcement will make their college journey more exciting and fulfilling.

Seek Professional Help

Anxiety can be challenging no matter where it stems from. If your teens’ anxiety is causing concern, it may be beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapists can help teach effective coping strategies, stress management skills, help set goals, and boost self-confidence. They can be a great support for your child during this process and offer guidance for you all as a family. If you believe you or your children could benefit from counseling, reach out and schedule a session today!

The coronavirus (COVID-19) caused many issues of fear, anxiety, depression, stress, uncertainty, and weariness for everyone. This was particularly true for teens who had to face school shutdowns, lack of socialization, and increased stress at home. On top of other stresses that teens struggle with normally, the pandemic heightened risks for the development of anxiety and depression. Let’s discuss some of the major effects COVID-19 had on teen mental health.

School Shut Downs

Schooling takes up a majority of children’s lives, promoting social skills, education, independence and responsibilities. They spend about 12 years in total going to school 5 days a week. It becomes a normal part of their routine and helps build their identities as young people in society. The pandemic shut down all schools for months, forcing the students to attend online schooling from their homes.

School can be difficult for teens and even more challenging when they are having to learn virtually rather than in person. Resources are limited, communication with teachers is not easily accessible, and social supports are severed. The stress of the adjustment to attending school at home and the potential of grades dropping, anxiety and depression symptoms start to increase.

Lack of Socialization

The pandemic called for a cease of all face-to-face contact without maintaining 6-feet distance. For fear of catching symptoms, most individuals stayed within their homes. Without having activities, fun plans, or social activities to engage with, teenagers struggled with feelings of intense loneliness, sadness, and despair. Even with the use of cell phones, social supports from peers and extended family members became limited.

Disengagement with Extracurriculars

Along with schools, restaurants, stores, and many other businesses, after school activities also shut down. Sports, clubs, and any other group activities did not meet for months, leaving teens with the inability to engage in things that bring them joy. Lack of extracurriculars enhances screen time by texting, scrolling, watching, and playing games. More time spent on their screens can lower motivation to exercise, talk with family and friends, and engage in self-care.

Family Stress

Being stuck indoors with the same people for months on end can cause an increase in conflict, irritation, arguments, and overall stress. With no way to relive this stress, tension can become almost unbearable. Symptoms of mental health issues start to impact teens. It is also possible that some teenagers’ home lives were not safe and warm before the pandemic. Staying in a hostile environment like this can cause emotional distress on the individual with no way to escape.

Long-Term Effects

Even now, 4 years out from the start of the pandemic, these effects can still impact teens today. Going back to school provided more anxiety rather than relief for most kids. Facing crowds, wearing masks, and learning to navigate safety now with COVID-19 present added to the stress.

After months of not socializing at all, children are now struggling with social skills and communication. School work is another added challenge; being out of study habits and not effectively learning for months can set kids back on where they should be academically.

Teenage and adolescent years present many challenges with identity, autonomy, relationships, education, and career interests. This age group is already susceptible to the diagnosis of mental health disorders. Add the mental toll of the pandemic and the risks increase exponentially.

If you notice that your child is still suffering with mental health symptoms, it may be beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional. COVID-19 was a terrible time for everyone and it’s time to learn to move forward and readjust our lives living with the illness.

Therapists can help your child with this transition as well as managing anxiety and depression symptoms caused by the pandemic. Reach out and schedule a consultation today.

 

Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Tik Tok… Social media has quickly become a primary method of communication for all ages. We are all subjected to scrolling, liking, and posting — teenagers especially. Like anything, there are pros and cons to the use of social media. Both impact the well-being of adolescent’s mental health.

Benefits of Social Media

• Building social networks: Having access to a wide variety of different online groups can help broaden social supports. Some teens find comfort in engaging with online communities where it’s easier to find individuals with similar likes and interests. It also helps geographical barriers and fosters relationships with people overseas.
• Entertainment: It’s no question that social media has been the cause of some pretty hilarious viral videos over the years. Social media that’s humorous and distracting can help improve adolescent’s moods.
• Self-expression: Media platforms can allow teens to express their interests, tap into their creative side, or share personal content.

Harms of Social Media

• Bullying: One of the largest criticisms of social media is how it can be used to harass people anonymously. Bullying is common amongst social groups during the adolescent stage of life. With access to social media, it makes the name-calling, teasing, and rumor spreading that much easier. This is a large contributor to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression in teens.
• Low self-esteem: Another issue with social media is its ability to promote unrealistic views and expectations. With filters, photoshop, and editing, people post videos and photos that appear flawless. Teenagers struggle with body image and how they view themselves, and seeing these types of posts online will only add to these negative feelings.
• Distractions: Sometimes these are needed after a long day or a stressful situation. However, excessive use can become a problem, and even an addiction. Relying on the media for satisfaction can be a slippery slope into developing anxiety and depression.

Long-Term Effects

Unfortunately, the cons outweigh the pros when it comes to social media. One negative impact is the issue with indirect communication. A lot of adolescent’s free time are spent browsing media and texting. FaceTime or video chat is becoming more popular than hanging out face-to-face.

There is a sense of protection behind a screen, and it can be almost anxiety-inducing to communicate to others directly. We, as humans, are reliant on social cues to help navigate conversations. With technology being a main source of communication, teens and adolescents are not developing critical social skills that may be needed in adulthood.

Mental health is also largely impacted by social media. Due to lower self-esteem, cyberbullying, and decrease of social interactions, anxiety and depression have spiked in the adolescent population. Teenage years are challenging to begin with, and with the added stresses and pressure of the media, mental health symptoms are increasing.

What Can Parents Do?

There are steps to take to promote healthy social media use and how to educate your teen on the negative impacts.

• Set limits: Only allow a certain amount of time for social media use. Encourage use for only a few hours a day and do not let it interfere with daily activities, school, work, or sleep.
• Monitor their accounts: Check in with your child about what they are posting and who they are communicating with.
• Encourage direct communication: Explain the importance of socializing face-to-face and help them understand the dangers of constantly talking to others via the media.
• Talk about the positives and negatives of social media: It’s important to have an open and honest conversation about the dangers of social media. Educate them about caring for themselves and their mental well-being.

If you notice negative signs and symptoms due to media, it may be best to reach out to mental health professional for help. Contact us today to schedule your first session.