How to Cope With Teen Issues
Being a teen can be tough. As a teen, you'll likely face a multitude of different issues stemming from your own self-image to parents, friends, dating, love, sex, siblings, grades, sports, driving, working and any number of other issues life may throw at you. Decisions you make today will help shape you into the adult you'll be, and some of those decisions can have life-altering consequences. Learn how to cope with the issues you have now, because good coping skills will help carry you through the rest of your life.
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Instructions
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Find an adult you can talk to--one who will listen without bias to your issues, then help you find a solution or offer advice if warranted. Ideally, this would be your parents; however, parents aren't always as emotionally or mentally strong as they should be for their kids. Talk to your mom or dad if possible; otherwise, turn to a religious leader, counselor, school nurse or an older family member you can trust.
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Figure out a way to get your thoughts, feelings and emotions in order before making huge decisions. Keep a positive attitude, even when things seem unbearable. Get into a regular routine to calm your mind, such as going for a walk, running, riding a bike or meditating. Clear your mind and try to make decisions based on logic rather than emotion; this will show maturity on your part.
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Be honest--even if your driving privileges are revoked, the cell phone gets taken away or you get grounded. By establishing a truthful demeanor, your parents will be inclined to trust you, even when things are difficult for both of you. If you break the rules, fess up. You'll probably have consequences, but they'll be far worse if you get caught in a lie. If you aren't honest, you'll have the original consequences in addition to new ones and a parent who no longer believes you.
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Don't succumb to peer pressure. While it's easier said than done, make decisions on the life you want to build for yourself instead of what will make you popular today. Bullying other teens, drinking, smoking, taking drugs, cheating, extreme dieting or overeating won't make you feel better. Most likely, doing those things will actually make you feel worse, especially in the long run.
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Talk to your closest friends; however, listen to the advice of counselors and adults who have "been there before." Learn from every mistake you make as well as those made by your friends. Be respectful of those around you and approach everything in a positive manner; then you'll see that other people begin to respond to you in a more positive light as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Read, write, play an instrument, draw, paint (just not graffiti), sing, dance, run or engage in another activity that allows you to express yourself. If you feel the need to exert some physical energy, work out instead of hitting someone. If you feel like screaming at someone, write it out or talk it out, or scream into your pillow if you must. Finding positive outlets for your frustration will prevent you from acting in a way or saying something that you will regret later.
Taking drugs, drinking alcohol and having sex can all have deadly ramifications. If you or a friend are having issues in any of these areas, seek immediate help from a school counselor, nurse or other professional. If you are intervening on a friend's behalf, he or she may be angry with you at first, but it could ultimately save his or her life. A true friend always tries to "do the right thing."
