Many teens have trouble adjusting to their social and academic roles. Unfortunately, this leads some teens to make choices that adversely affect them for years to come. This might include drug or alcohol use, risky sexual behaviour, and blatant opposition to authority. However, with the right encouragement and support in a program specifically designed for teens’ unique needs, they can go in the right direction again.
If you are a parent looking for help for struggling teens, our team at Venture Academy can help. We have decades of combined experience assisting troubled teens in improving their self-esteem and learning healthy coping strategies that will keep them on the right track during this difficult time in their lives. Learn more about our programs at Venture Academy for helping teens today by calling 866.762.2211 or reaching out to us online. There are also ways that you, as a parent, can help your troubled teen.
3 Ways to Help Troubled Teens
1. Connect with Your Teen
As parents, our schedules are filled with responsibilities and obligations. As a result, we often don’t make time to stop and have a meaningful conversation about what’s going on in their lives. It is crucial to show your teen that you care about their problems, and they’ll be more likely to be honest when they see that you are taking the time to speak with them. One of the easiest methods of helping teens is to have a sit-down dinner every night without cell phones. If your teen is hesitant to open up at first, keep at it without badgering them. They will share when they’re ready and comfortable.
2. Help Identify Your Teen’s Triggers
Triggers are people, places, or situations that cause an adverse reaction and can lead to unwise decisions. Sometimes, teens don’t even realize what makes them upset. As a parent, you can help your teen by figuring out what triggers strong emotions for them. For example, it might be a classmate at school or a particular academic subject that causes unwanted behaviour in your teen. Once your teen knows their triggers, help them find healthy ways to deal with overwhelming emotions if they encounter these triggers. A long run, hitting a punching bag or pillow, or meditation are all healthy coping mechanisms for helping teens that they can use for years to come.
3. Don’t Do It by Yourself
It is imperative that you recognize that no one parent can help a troubled teen entirely on their own. First, look for signs that your teen is struggling, such as:
- Skipping school
- Drug or alcohol use
- Anxiety or depression
- Fighting or bullying
- Promiscuity
If you notice your teen participating in these types of behaviour, you need to reach out for help. One example is to have an open line of communication with your teen’s teachers. A school guidance counsellor can also be a valuable resource. Also, therapeutic options such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, also known as “talk therapy,” can give your teen the opportunity to voice their frustrations and learn how to enhance their self-image. Another option is to reach out to a team of professionals, such as our staff at Venture Academy. We understand the unique needs of teens and are standing by to help.
Choose Venture Academy to Help Support Your Teen
At Venture Academy, we recognize that anger and adverse behaviour that some teens engage in is rooted in hurt, confusion, and frustration. That’s why we create a safe and supportive environment where teens can rediscover what makes them unique people. If you’re concerned about your teen, contact us online or call us at 866.762.2211, and our admissions team can help you decide which of our programs might be best to help your teen succeed.
