Mental Health In Teenagers

Is My Teenager Really Happy? You may ask yourself this question. The truth is that I don't know, nobody can really know except your child. Mental health is something that we can all struggle with without being diagnosed by a medical professional. In other words, everyone can struggle with their mental health in their own way. Teenagers go through a lot these days, more than you know. Lots of factors can lead to being mentally unstable. A lot of times Teenagers have trouble opening up about their feelings. If you don't know 100% that your child is happy, here are some things that I recommend you do.

1) Ask them how they are

This can go a really far way! Sometimes children don't get asked this very often. If you see your child constantly making his or her friends happy, Check on them! Make sure they take time for themselves and be the support they need.

2) Be lenient when it comes to them causing little inconveniences to you.

When a child (or anyone) has a lot on their mind, they can become severely overwhelmed. If your child did not do their chores or pick up something you asked, Be kind about it. Yelling will most likely add more stress to them than they already have on their plate.

3) Listen to your child

When your child wants to talk to you about something that interests them or makes them happy, LISTEN! These days some children don't have a person to talk to even when their happy, whether it be a friend that is not the best at listening, their parents cutting them off, or they just feel lonely. Little things like just listening can help relieve children of their stress. Be there for your child and be a good support system.

4) Make your child feel special

Whether you buy them their favorite video game, tell them how truly special they are to you, take a walk with them, or buy them their favorite ice cream, make sure they know they are loved. It is hard sometimes to know that there are people who love you when you're focused on finding a partner, finding yourself, or learning to love yourself. Small deeds like these help children to know they are cared for.

5) Respect your child's privacy

How would you feel if your child snuck into your room and peaked around? You probably said "Not good". Yea it's kind of annoying! Give your child the privacy you would want. Of course, if you are really concerned about them you do what you need to do, but don't be nosey just to be nosey

Overall, you never know how your child is actually feeling. If they are in their room a lot alone, check on them often. If you feel like you are all up in their faces constantly, give them some space. Evaluate yourself and see what you can do better as a parent. Mental health problems can be brought on by parents and home life. Please always check on your child and make sure they feel loved because you never know what they are going through. There's a lot on the internet nowadays. Always be kind and BE THERE.

Much love, take care of yourself and your child.