Teen Stress
Stress Relief Tips
Teen stress is very real in today’s world and has been attributed to the many new media intense sources available to children such as:
- Computer games
- Cable TV
- The Internet
- Social networking
But often it is the more mundane everyday experiences which can trigger a stress response, such as:
- School Exams
- Family breakdown
- Hormonal changes
- Future expectations
Teenagers and Stress
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Unfortunately teenagers seem to be more susceptible to stress than most and indeed it is not uncommon for teenagers to experience, depression, low self esteem and anger. Which left unmanaged can lead on to more serious circumstances such as suicide. In fact suicide is the third main cause of death in 15 to 24 years olds.
Being a teenager often also means not wanting to be controlled by their parents any more and in fact seem to actively push them away. This can make it very difficult for a parent to help their child with teen stress.
Helping With Teen Stress
It is not easy being a parent of a teenager; they often don’t want you to interfere or try to do things for them. The trick is to provide help but without them really knowing that you are doing it.
Keep Watchful
Because teenagers and stress seem to be prevalent it is important as a parent not to ignore any signs of stress and need to be vigilant at all times. So keep a watchful eye on them at a distance so as not to appear to be interfering but will be able to provide help without having to be asked first 9which is often unlikely)
Lines of Communication
Make sure that your teenagers know that they can talk to you about anything and that you will be supportive rather than critical. This is so important as sometimes it is not always obvious that your child may be in trouble.
Parent Tips For Teenagers
All families are different and all teenagers are different but there are some things as apparent that you can do to try and make your relationship as strong as possible so that if needed your children can feel that they can to you for help.
Here are a few tips:
- Make rules and keep to them
- Talk to your children every day, build up a rapport
- Be supportive and encouraging
- Explain things rather than dictate rules
- Try not to lose your temper, be calm and collective and talk things through.
- Practice stress management techniques together
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