Understanding your teen’s emotional health

 

Understanding your teen’s emotional health

I found it quite shocking when I heard about a learned young medical professional who attempted suicide, about someone who was distressed by an illness that changed the facial appearance and was unable to cope with the situation, and about someone who was highly qualified, but had to compromise on the financial portfolio as could not manage the stress at work.

This made me really think that in today’s competitive and fast paced world, how much importance we are really giving to the emotional well-being of our children. Should we not discuss with them that the true measure of success is the emotional maturity and well-being of oneself.

 Most people between the age of 18 and 25 are in a period of transition. What psychologists call an "extended adollescence", this time of life is the tail end of the rapid development that teenagers go through.  Much like the transitional period that is puberty, this time of life entails changes in the brain, hormones, and life circumstances, all of which bring the potential for emotional distress and mental health concerns.

Nearly 70 % of mental illness begin before 25. Yet, hundreds of adolescents remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. Red flags of poor mental health are overlooked for several reasons, including a lack of awareness or knowledge about mental health or a negative stigma.

Here are a few predisposing factors that could affect your teen’s or young adult child’s mental health. 

    Parental Abuse either physical or psychological is connected to unfulfilling relationship patterns, strained coping skills, lack of self-compassion misuse of substances, and often more serious mental illness later in life. 

    Nutrition – Unhealthy eating pattern is also one of the factors of stress and insecurity. Malnourishment is not the only factor, even overeating and unhealthy level of sugar consumption could be a reason for emotional struggles and should be carefully observed by parents.

    Substance Abuse - Many young people may turn to substances to self-medicate, not knowing that a developing brain is highly vulnerable to damage from drug and alcohol abuse.

Young adults are particularly susceptible to developing mental illness. Unfortunately, they are not always aware of the possibility of experiencing a mental health challenge before they leave home. Teaching young adults about what they may face and addressing their emotional concerns can allow them to take control of their lives. 

Path to improved health

Communicating your love for your child is the single most important thing you can do to help them during their teenage years. Children decide how they feel about themselves in large part by how their parents react to them. For this reason, it is important for parents to help their children feel good about themselves. You can do this by:

·        Building their confidence and self-esteem. Praise them—and be specific. Tell them exactly why you are impressed or proud of them. Spend time with them, and let them know how much you value them.

·        Supporting them emotionally. Encourage them to talk to you. Listen and help them understand their feelings.

·   Providing them safety and security. Give them unconditional love. Maintain routines so they feel secure. Make sure they know home is a safe place for them.

·        Teaching them resiliency. Teach your child how to make it through the tough times. Help them cope with change, manage stress, and learn from setbacks.

It is also important to communicate your values with your child. Set expectations and limits for him or her. These could include insisting on honesty, self-control, and respect for others at all times. At the same time, allow your teenager to have their own space and be their own person.

Parents of teens often find themselves noticing only the problems. They may get in the habit of giving mostly negative feedback and criticism. Teens need feedback, but they respond better to positive feedback. Remember to praise appropriate behaviour. This will help your teen feel a sense of accomplishment and reinforce your family’s values.

Establishing a loving relationship from the start can help you and your child through these bumpy teenage years. They should be aware that there is no “one size fits all” treatment for mental health Remind them that help is available and, in some cases, crucial for successful adult life. 

Finally, Parenting is involved at each stage-

“Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.” - Lao Tzu 

By

Dr. Mona Shah

Occupational Therapist, Clinical Psychologist