How to help your teen's mental health during COVID and beyond
The teenage years are a time of profound change and turmoil no matter what, but growing up during a pandemic makes them especially hard.
Posted — UpdatedThe teenage years are a time of profound change and turmoil no matter what, but growing up during a pandemic makes them especially hard. Just as many adults are struggling to find some sense of normalcy as more people get the COVID-19 vaccines and the nation begins to ease restrictions, teens are trying to find their footing, too.
Teens Feel Isolated, Anxious and Sad
“A lot of teens and young people are feeling really isolated from the folks in their life outside of their immediate family group,” Pflum says.
How Parents Can Help Improve Teens’ Mental Health
While teens may be struggling with their mental health, there are steps that parents and other adults in their lives can take to help. These include:
“Being younger doesn’t mean that they aren’t able to understand what’s going on or to reflect on how that makes them feel,” Pflum says.
If your teen no longer wants to do an activity with friends or even with family, this can be a red flag that he or she may be struggling.
If you notice that your child is having a hard time, talk to him or her about it—and listen without judgment. It’s important for parents to validate their children’s concerns.
“Say ‘tell me more about how you’re feeling’ rather than ‘everyone has a hard time as a teenager’ or ‘you’ll get over it,’” Pflum says. “Lend an ear and say, ‘I’m here for you.’ Being open to listening is important.”
“Do not be afraid to ask, ‘Are you having thoughts of hurting yourself? Are you having thoughts of ending your life?’” Pflum says. “Parents worry that asking about suicide is going to generate or condone this idea, which is not true. It’s often a signal that you’re a safe person to talk to.”
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