Raising a teen is not exactly smooth sailing, particularly when hormones start raging. Then you get a feeling like no matter what you do or how kind and tolerant you may be, nothing is good enough.
It’s a turbulent period, to say the least. But bear in mind that during this period of time, when your child is transitioning into adolescence, your kid is very sensitive and fragile. And even if it may appear to be like you’re his or her greatest enemy, the truth is, your teen needs you now more than ever.
No one says that it’s going to be easy, but just like every parent, you’ll both get through this successfully. If you’re searching for some guidance that will help you navigate this period, then just scroll below to find out more!
Excellent Ways To Help Your Teen “Survive” Teenage Years
Pay Attention To The First Signs Of Depression
If there’s one term that is synonymous with typical teenage behavior, it’s mood swings. And every parent will tell you that. But do not mistake being moody for being depressed. These are completely different things.
So how will you be able to distinguish that? If you notice that your child is in a constantly low mood, doesn’t want to hang out with anyone, doesn’t eat at all (or eats too much), and is sleeping a lot, these can potentially be signs of depression. And if that’s the case, then you must act fast.
What are your options? First of all, you should talk to your kid about how he/she feels about seeking help. Keep reminding your child that there’s nothing to be ashamed of and that there are various amazing options at his/her disposal, like teen depression treatment centers, medications, and therapy. No matter what your child decides to do, just don’t forget to always be supportive.
Talk About Responsibility
A vast majority of young people are not too thrilled to talk about this, since they are not sure what it actually encompasses. It’s completely understandable if, at this very moment, they feel completely lost and confused (since they are still trying to figure out how the world works), but that still doesn’t mean that your child shouldn’t be responsible.
Don’t forget that in a few years, he/she is going to fully reach adulthood, so if he/she isn’t ready to be accountable, then he/she is going to become a careless and irresponsible human being and that’s not something any parent would want.
Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should turn into a rigorous monster that doesn’t allow anything, or on the other hand, give your kid total freedom, but instead, create a balance between responsibility and freedom.
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You Are Both Parent And A Friend
As aforementioned, even if it looks like your child is angry with you most of the time, at the end of the day, he/she wants nothing but your support, love, and appreciation. They want to feel safe and loved.
Therefore, you should do everything that’s in your power to form a friendship with your child. But don’t forget, that no matter how close the two of you are, sometimes, your kid will want to be independent and do things separately from you.
And that’s completely okay and shouldn’t make you feel like you’re redundant. If you fully accept this, then you’ll notice how your teen is becoming more relaxed around you and will open up to you about anything that bothers him/her.
However, remember that after all, you are a parent which means that some boundaries have to be set, meaning that if you notice that your child is disrespecting you and is behaving like a spoiled brat, then you have to say no to certain things.
Support Your Kids’ Aspirations And Dreams
There’s nothing worse than having a parent who tries to push their agenda on their child. The only thing that you’ll achieve is to put extra pressure on your kid, which comes with certain consequences.
If you do not want your teenager to constantly feel anxious that you must avoid doing this. Instead, allow your child to explore things and see what truly piques the interest of your child and what doesn’t.
Remember, that’s one of the best ways to make sure that your kid is content and fulfilled in every way.
It’s never easy for a parent to wake up one day, only to realize that their child has grown overnight and has turned into a little rebel. But don’t worry. Nothing lasts forever and with these tips, both of you will smoothly handle every obstacle along the way.