DEAR DIARY
“I often wonder, who am I? Life is so unpredictable. I mean, it’s hard for me
right now. Where do I fit in? Why don’t my worries go away?”
CAREGIVERS’ AWARENESS
More than ever, teens are worried. They are constantly experiencing anxiety and despair about
everything. As parents, it is essential to recognize signs that your adolescent is struggling with
their mental or emotional health. Of course, parents have to first embrace the concept of
psychological wellness- and how its impact considerably varies within their daily lives.
This effort to bridge the gap between parenting and emotional intelligence (EQ) is the absolute
catalyst for healing the young, and for the society to progress as a whole. The gap can be bridged
by developing two key concepts and skills in self-awareness and self-regulation. As of late,
teenage issues are far more advanced than yesteryear, which means that parents must change the
way they think. Adolescents are experiencing issues that can actually start right at home. Family
and/or family conflict weighs heavy on your child and your words may only validate their worst
fears. Understanding mental distress or emotional insecurities, yours as well as your child’s, is vital
to their welfare.
Because general anxiety is an intricate part of adolescence, the way you respond can either unarm
or cause more harm. When worry, fear, sadness, or stress intensify and start to disrupt your
child’s daily life, as well as that of the family, your child may be struggling. Teenagers often suffer
alone; making it difficult to open up. Young people present with challenges to communicate what
they are feeling and how to manage those feelings.
DEAR DIARY
“I wish I could tell my mom and dad how much I am hurting. I feel like I am
being judged all the time. Sometimes at home, but at school, certain stuff really
upsets me and I can’t, nobody can do anything about it. I just don’t feel like myself!”
Your child should not be intimidated to talk to you about anything; without judgement or lack of
sensitivity. Teens should have some measure of autonomy to deem control of who they are. Not
only is self-awareness the foundation to score a high EQ, it also elevates esteem and confidence. A
great way to initiate open dialogue is to plan a meal or outing together that allows you to simply
listen and ask questions. Adolescents thrive when they are consistently subjected to positive
aspirations and affirmations.
For example, play around with some positive traits, or even family
traits. Did you know that there are fifty-eight positive site traits for teens? Apply any of them to
break the ice and then simply listen, let your child express who they are and who they aspire to be! In psychology, the “Strengths Use Plan” is a powerful tool for struggling and aspiring teens!
When you intentionally identify strengths and traits, and make a plan to use them everyday, it
builds confidence and resilience. Ask questions to keep your child comfortable and engaged in the
moment.
DEAR DIARY
“Today was a good day. Better than most anyway! I actually talked, really talked
to my family. It was weird at first, but felt so good to get some stuff off my chest.”
PRACTICE SELF CONTROL
Engaged in the moment… what does that really mean? Mindfulness is a practical,
evidence-based technique that empowers you to change the way you think. The best part about it,
it can be applied anywhere at anytime. Teach your teen that there are things they cannot control
and things that they can absolutely control. Being engaged in the moment suggests that your
teen can only control THEIR OWN – thoughts, words, actions, behavior,
feelings. Self-regulation is the emotional muscle that fosters overall wellness. Now that
he/she knows who they are and developing a better understanding of their emotions, it’s time to
manage how they respond.
Pain hurts for the moment, but the healing last a lifetime! With consistent practice, adolescents
will be able to face whatever happens in their lives. But, they need your support. Don’t let your
teenagers be imprisoned by trauma, grief, sadness, anxiety; or even the stress of bullying and
schoolwork. Emotional self-control plays a significant role in relationships, comfort, and overall
prosperity in life. Regulation enables us to remain calm in challenging situations and respond
more effectively.
Your teenagers are counting on you to show them how to manage emotions, consider the feelings
of others, and control behavior. When techniques are implemented daily, you and your
adolescent will be better able to manage stress, deal with conflict, and achieve goals. Remember,
if your child is in extreme emotional distress or in a crisis, lasting more than two weeks, or is
seriously interfering with the ability to function, don’t hesitate to seek professional mental health
help.
DEAR DIARY
“I know that I am loved. I just have to learn to love myself. My parents tell me everyday that I am somebody and I deserve to be happy!”
Teaching emotional literacy starts at home and school. More than ever, adolescents need security
and someone who is sensitive and empathetic to their emotions and authentically hear what they
have to say. As your resilience grows stronger as a family, everyone will be better prepared for
future adversity.