How to Be Supportive to a Teen

Being a supportive parent can be difficult. It is imperative to understand that a teen needs a supportive parent but also a parent who sets clear boundaries. Teen years are especially challenging because your teen is trying to find her own identity. Your mature parental attitude will be tested many times over the teen years. This is normal behavior. It's when things seem to be suddenly changing that you may need to make a formal plan to help your teen.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Support Your Teen in Crisis

1. Recognize the warning signs. If your son has suddenly withdrawn or dramatically changed his sleeping or eating patterns, you should talk to him to see if anything is wrong.

2. Listen to what your teen is saying. Try to understand what your teen is feeling. You do not always have to solve her problem or offer advice.

3. Share your feelings with him. Mention that there have been times when you have felt lonely, sad or hurt too.

Learn Proactive Ways to Support Your Teen

4. Encourage social activity. Teens who stay isolated often experience more symptoms of depression. Offer to take your teen out with friends or suggest social activities like sports, after-school clubs or music lessons.

5. Avoid trying to talk your teen out of her depression, even if her feelings seem irrational to you. A simple acknowledgment of what she is feeling will have a greater impact on her.

6. Seek treatment for your teen if necessary. See a psychologist and make sure your teen is following the treatment instructions, which may include going to therapy.

7. Make a diary where you can track changes in your teen's behavior. This will give you the opportunity to talk to your teen about what he may not be comfortable discussing.

8. Offer to find your teen a supportive mentor. If you have trouble locating someone, you can contact your local Big Brothers Big Sisters of America chapter via the official website.

Tips & Warnings

• If your teen insists nothing is wrong but has no explanation for what is causing the change in his behavior, you should trust your instincts and investigate further.
• Take your own temperature. At times, a parent may experience exhaustion, rejection, despair and aggravation as a result of a teen's behavior. It's important to remember that your son may not be acting difficult on purpose.
• Don't judge yourself or compare your family to others. This will not help your teen in times of crisis because he may feel that he is not able to perform to your standards.