I remember being in middle school and high school and struggling mightily with anxiety and depression. It started at about ages 13–15 with OCD, social anxiety, and depression. It occurred in that order. Age 13 is when OCD (a form of anxiety) crept in. Age 14 is when the social anxiety ramped up. And age 15, the depression started. Looking back, I was miserable. I didn’t have a good support system. So let’s take a look at how this happened and how best to help teens dealing with these serious mental health challenges.
I grew up in a home of instability and unpredictability, with alcohol abuse, neglect, and uncertainty. This isn’t healthy for a child or teenager.
My mind was a mess at a young age. I can recall severe anxiety at a young age. At the age of 4, I suffered a blunt force trauma eye injury. That had a major impact on my life, and it only got worse from there when you factor in instability and neglect.
If I were to advise parents regarding how best to support teens with anxiety and depression, it would be to provide an environment of awareness and support. Simply ask your teenager how their day was. Encourage them to study and take their academics seriously. Have dinner together often. Spend quality time together (ball games, movies, church, etc.). Provide teenagers with love and support. Be a good listener. Tell them you love them. I truly believe it all starts in the home with a father that provides and protects and a mother that nurtures. The role of the parent is vital to the emotional health of children.
Encourage them to participate in after-school activities and sports. The physical activity involved in playing sports helps with good mental health. Teenagers have the energy to go for walks and run. There is such a thing as a “runner’s high.” Teenagers don’t need drugs (it is sad how prevalent drug use is nowadays). They need exercise. Lift weights; walk; jog. Sports also give teenagers purpose and needed structure. I’m a sports fanatic and believe sports are a great way to teach life lessons like accountability, competition, and teamwork. I go for long walks daily, and 3–5 days a week I am also on the spin bike and/or using the rowing machine.
Listen, love, check-in, encourage, and support. The teenage years are tough. Teenagers need a good support system, and parents play a vital role.
Have a great week.
Paul
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