Therapeutic Tips: How to Help Support your Teen
- Create Safe & Predictable Routines: Consistent routines can help reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. Encourage healthy daily habits that include sleep, meals, school responsibilities, downtime, and self-care.
- Encourage Open Communication: Create a judgment-free space where teens feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Listen with empathy, validate their feelings, and remind them they are not alone.
- Promote Healthy Coping Skills: Teach positive ways to manage stress and emotions such as deep breathing, journaling, mindfulness, exercise, music, art, or spending time outdoors.
- Be Aware of Warning Signs: Changes in mood, sleep, appetite, motivation, social withdrawal, irritability, or declining school performance may signal a teen is struggling emotionally and may need additional support.
- Support Positive Social Connections: Encourage healthy friendships, supportive relationships, and involvement in activities that build confidence, belonging, and self-esteem.
- Support Positive Social Connections: Encourage healthy friendships, supportive relationships, and involvement in activities that build confidence, belonging, and self-esteem.