tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49431183225281851722024-02-20T17:25:13.240-05:00The Blog of P.U.R.E. and Sue ScheffAuthor and Parent Advocate -
Articles, thoughts and strictly opinions of the author
Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comBlogger1086125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-13950804947113188262024-01-09T09:33:00.001-05:002024-01-09T09:33:25.041-05:00How to Find NATSAP Schools for My Troubled Teen<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;">Searching for </span><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/research-tips/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">schools for troubled teens online</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;"> can be tedious and confusing. If this is your first time searching for therapeutic boarding schools for your troubled teenager, learning the <u>terminology</u> will be one of your first lessons.</span></p><h2 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: var( --e-global-typography-accent-font-size ); line-height: var( --e-global-typography-accent-line-height ); margin-bottom: 1rem; margin-top: 0.5rem; text-align: left;">5 Tips to Untangle the Troubled Teen Industry Terminology</h2><ol style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">“</em><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">My teen needs a Military school to teach them a lesson!”</em> WRONG.</span></li></ol><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/military-schools-and-academies/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Military schools</a> are a privilege and honor to attend, they are not for defiant, drug-using, depressed, or other behavioral issues students.</p><div class="wp-block-image" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: table; float: right; margin: 0.5em 0px 0.5em 1em;"><img alt="PexelOnlineSearch" aria-label="How to Untangle Troubled Teen Industry Terminology 1" class="wp-image-43040 lazyautosizes ls-is-cached lazyloaded" data-eio-rheight="685" data-eio-rwidth="325" data-sizes="auto" data-src="https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&fit=325%2C685&ssl=1" data-srcset="https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&fit=325%2C685&ssl=1 325w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-1024x685.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 1024w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-300x201.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 300w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-768x514.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 768w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 1028w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&w=384&ssl=1 384w" decoding="async" height="685" sizes="1024px" src="https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&fit=325%2C685&ssl=1" srcset="https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&fit=325%2C685&ssl=1 325w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-1024x685.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 1024w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-300x201.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 300w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch-768x514.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 768w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1 1028w, https://edbcr8344ir.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/PexelOnlineSearch.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&w=384&ssl=1 384w" style="border-radius: 0px; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; height: auto; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: bottom; width: 325px;" width="1024" /></figure></div><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">They do<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</em> </span>provide mental health services – and if your teen is using drugs, drinking, or vaping now – by attending an open campus, it is likely s/he will consider the use again.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">However, this time when he is caught (typically three strike you are out) and the parents will forfeit their tuition. This is the same for any of the behavioral issues they are asked to leave or expelled for – you will be risking your tuition as well as <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">setting your child up for failure</em>.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">2. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">“My teen needs a wilderness program to appreciate what they have at home.”</em></span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> WRONG.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/does-my-teen-need-a-wilderness-program/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;">Wilderness programs</a> are short-term programs will typically short-term results. It usually did not take 4-6 weeks to get to where you are right now, it will not take 4-6 (or 9 for that matter) to turn it around or have long-lasting behavioral results. Parents are usually guided (or <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">misguided</span>) into wilderness therapy by <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">educational consultants</span> that understand these programs come with <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">step two</em>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Step two is moving on to a therapeutic boarding school (which you could have started with). We educate parents to find step one initially so your teen has <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">consistency</em> without <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">program hopping</span>. This not only helps your teenager from bouncing to therapists, staff, and environments – it can be most cost effective to the family.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Since 2001 we have consistently heard many <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">misconceptions</span> about wilderness programs – and parents need to separate <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">fact from the myths.</em></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;">Myths and Facts of Wilderness Therapy:</u></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Myth:</span> Many parents are <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">led to believe</span> that most quality residential programs will <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</em> accept a teen that has not completed a wilderness program. That simply is <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</em><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> true. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Myth:</span> Any teen that is using drugs needs to do a wilderness first. This is <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</em></span> true.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Myth:</span> All teens do wilderness first, if not they will not succeed. Again<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">, not</em></span> true.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Fact:</span> Wilderness programs are <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">not</span> necessary to enter a <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">many </span>therapeutic boarding schools and residential treatment centers.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Fact:</span> Wilderness programs are an <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">expensive band-aid</em></span>. They will cost a family from $450-800+ per day and the duration is about 4-9 weeks. The fact is — long lasting behavioral changes cannot take place in short-term programs. Therefore, most students that attend wilderness programs transition on to a residential boarding school.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">There is likely a need for wilderness therapy for <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">some</em> students, but to state that all teens need wilderness prior to treatment or will not be successful without it — is simply <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">untrue.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">You will stumble on programs that will tell you they won’t accept a student unless they have attended a wilderness program first — in our opinion, it likely<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"> not</em></span> the program for you. Most therapeutic boarding schools or residential treatment facilities (schools for troubled teens) are trained to care for behavioral issues — it is likely they are either a <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">transitional program</span> or part of a bigger concern in this industry — <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">politics</em></span> (number 5).</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Some programs use wilderness as a <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">last resort</span>, if after 90 days in a therapeutic boarding school your teen is not <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">settling down</em> or has become extremely defiant and aggressive – they may then refer you to this type of program. It does not need to be your first step.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">3. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">What is the difference between a therapeutic boarding school (TBS) and residential treatment center (RTC) and <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">what does my teen need</em>?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">The short answer is</span> it depends on the state and how the state licenses residential programming. There is<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> no national standard</span> and each of our fifty states have the responsibility to set their own licensure requirements for<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> private-pay residential programming</span>; many states divide up the enforcement between numerous governmental departments and some states do not even regulate private-pay residential care.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">The scope and specifics of state regulations vary greatly, and some states do not require independent licensure at all. Therefore, parents must do their diligence when researching residential placement – knowing that the program <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">does have state licensing is important</span>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">What these programs<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> all have in common</span> is that they are all addressing physical, emotional, behavioral, familial, social, and intellectual/academic development; it is how that is addressed which <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">differentiates </em>between the TBS or RTC.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">RTC’s typically have more clinical care than a TBS, however we have also seen emotional growth programs that have a <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">strong clinical foundation</span>. We suggest you interview the program/school that you believe best fits your teen’s emotional needs, which includes their <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">enrichment therapies</span> such as <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-art-therapy-benefits-troubled-teens-2/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">animal</a>, <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-art-therapy-benefits-troubled-teens/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">art</a>, music therapy and more. It is important to find a setting that will stimulate your child in a positive direction.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">4. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">What is CARF and JCAHO accreditations? Are they necessary in choosing residential treatment?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">CARF</span> is Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities is an organization that oversees programs for behavioral health. If a program/school is CARF accredited, in some cases you may have a more insurance coverage. CARF accreditation can be considered a <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">quality </em>standard of care.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">JCAHO</span> is The Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations which is the seal of approval for hospitals, and some residential treatment centers have acquired this accreditation. JCAHO is a higher level of care, although many residential treatment centers are not JCAHO accredited, they will adhere by their standards. Being JCAHO accredited will help your insurance coverage.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">More and more therapeutic programs are becoming CARF accredited not only to provide more safety and oversight for their staff and students, but to offer <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">more reimbursement for insurance claims</span>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">JCAHO is typically found in higher level of care facilities, although some residential treatment centers have that extra level of accreditation.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Both these accreditations are important; however, they are <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</em> necessary. For years residential treatment has been operating without them and have been successful. These are <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">voluntary </em>accreditations.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">5. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">What is <u>NATSAP</u> and <u>IECA</u> seals of approval that are some programs sites? </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">NATSAP </span>is the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs. This is a <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">self-made</span> organization that was reprimanded in a congressional hearing in 2007 for their <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">lack of oversight</em> of their members. Participating programs and schools <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">pay a fee</span> to be members to have their seal of approval on their sites.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">More concerning is some parents are <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">under the illusion</span> that unless a program is NATSAP approved, it is <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">not </em>a quality program. That is simply <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</u></span> true. Not all schools and programs feel the need to be a member of this club, nor do they have to. Unlike CARF or JCAHO, it (NATSAP) does not offer much in benefits.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">IECA </span>are the Independent Educational Consultants of America, and their members are known as Educational Consultants that pay the fees to belong to this <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">self-made</em></span> organization. Like with NATSAP, they have their own circle of schools and programs they support and unlikely to consider those that do not want to participate (pay) to belong to <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">private clubs</span>.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">There are many excellent schools and programs in our country today that have been around for decades that have <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">never been involved</span> in private organizations (clubs) and have succeeded <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">on their reputation</em></span>. It is important for parents not to be dissuaded by the politics of the troubled teen industry.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Also read:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/success-rate-therapeutic-boarding-schools/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Success in Therapeutic Boarding Schools</a></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-to-find-safe-therapeutic-boarding-schools/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Finding Safe Therapeutic Schools</a></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/5-goals-of-therapeutic-boarding-school-for-troubled-teens/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;">Goals of Therapeutic Boarding Schools</a></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-87392355974931703572023-09-01T08:45:00.001-04:002023-09-01T08:45:13.685-04:00Schools for Troubled Teens Questions and Answers<p> <span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;">Are you at your wit’s end with your defiant teenager? Find yourself online</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;"> </span><a aria-label="Where Can I Send A Troubled Teenager?" href="https://helpyourteens.com/where-can-i-send-a-troubled-teenager/" rel="noopener" style="box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">searching for places to send troubled teens</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bolder;">and realize you have so many questions? </span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelsQuestAnswers.png" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-35658" decoding="async" height="220" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelsQuestAnswers-300x220.png" srcset="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelsQuestAnswers-300x220.png 300w, https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelsQuestAnswers-768x563.png 768w, https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelsQuestAnswers.png 907w" style="border-radius: 0px; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; float: right; height: auto; margin-left: 1rem; max-width: 100%;" width="300" /></a></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">First you are bombarded with <a aria-label="Searching for Schools for Troubled Teens Online" href="https://helpyourteens.com/searching-for-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">websites, marketing and new terminology</span></a> that can be <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">confusing and overwhelming</em> especially when you are stressed out and exhausted by your teen’s behavior.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">After decades of helping families that are searching for the <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">right behavioral boarding school </em></span>for their struggling teen or young adult, we complied the top <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">5 most asked questions</span> and <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">answers</em> by parents.</p><h4 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: var( --e-global-typography-accent-font-size ); font-weight: var( --e-global-typography-accent-font-weight ); line-height: var( --e-global-typography-accent-line-height ); margin-bottom: 1rem; margin-top: 0.5rem;">5 Questions Parents Ask About Placing Their Teen in Troubled Youth Programs:</h4><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">1. “Should our teen help us choose the therapeutic boarding program?”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Absolutely, positively <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;">not</u></em></span>. Up until this point of their life, they have not been making the best choices, what would convince you that they would make the <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">right</span> one now?</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Again, with decades of experience, parents have attempted to work with their teens in hopes they would be <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">excited</em> about a school or a program, getting a new start – or possibly the animals or sports that the program offers, however what happens next can be anything but excitement.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Your child will start doing their<a aria-label="The Troubled Teen Industry Negative Reviews" href="https://helpyourteens.com/troubled-teen-help-industry-negative-reviews/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> own research online</span></a>, telling their friends, and realizing they <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box;">will not be able to take their phones</u></em>, talk to friends, they will be on a schedule and life will not be the rainbows and unicorns they have been used to. In some situations, they might even miss holidays or birthdays.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">If your teen is a flight risk, you are giving them time to better map out their surroundings by telling them where they will be going – or even where you are considering sending them. It is never wise for a parent to <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">threaten a child that they will be sent away</em>, this only starts the program off with a sense of negativity.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">It is the child’s behavior that has prompted you to make this decision, no parent simply wants to send a child to residential for no reason. Every parent has their child’s wellness in the forefront.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">This is a time for parents to be the parents, make the adult decision for the child that needs help. If you are placing a young adult, it is different. At 18+ years old they do have to be willing to attend. In most of these young adults’ programs your child can speak with the director and other students and get a full understanding of the program. Some young adults know they need this extra boost.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">2. “<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">My teen won’t attend a program; how do we get him/her there</span>?”</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">This is probably one of the most common questions parents ask and are concerned about. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Assisted transport </span>is how most parents have <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">successfully and safely</em> brought their teen to residential treatment.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">It is especially important to choose <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">qualified and credentialed professionals. </span>The<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/teen-transport-services/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;">transport service</a> </span>should be <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">licensed and insured</span> to transport teens and have various degrees and/or background in education, psychology, behavioral science, mental health, or other related fields.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">It is natural for parents to be apprehensive about this, however after speaking with other parents that have taken this road, you will realize that many of these teens ended up becoming friends with their transports and it is <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">not</span> the nightmare they are imagining. They may initially be angry, but deep down your teen understands they do need help.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">3. “<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">I fear my teen will hate me forever if I send them to a therapeutic boarding school</span>.”</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Again, another quite common concern of parents, especially parents of <em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">adopted children</span></em> that fear that they will exasperate <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">abandonment</em> issues, is will their teen hate them forever if they are sent to a therapeutic boarding school?</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Initially your teen may enter the program and <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">not like you very much</span> (it may feel like hate to you and them) but — they will <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">grow from their fear and anger.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Your teen will likely fear the new situation and may also promise to “<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">do better at home</span>” however you know that you have already heard all these promises and spent a long time trying. It is time to <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">be the adult</em>, be the parent and do what is<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> best for your child.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">It is at this time that <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">talking to other parents can be incredibly supportive for you</span> — parents that have taken this journey before you, maybe from the same program you have selected for your teen.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">As the program progresses, family therapy and workshops continue to <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">reunite all of you</em> and work through the conflict that tore you apart. Eventually your teen will be able to understand and have<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> gratitude for this experience.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">4. “My teen is very smart; will he/she fall behind academically?”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelTutorGirl.png" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-35659" decoding="async" height="202" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelTutorGirl-300x202.png" srcset="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelTutorGirl-300x202.png 300w, https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelTutorGirl-768x518.png 768w, https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelTutorGirl.png 991w" style="border-radius: 0px; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; float: right; height: auto; margin-left: 1rem; max-width: 100%;" width="300" /></a></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">When these teens enter <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">boarding schools for troubled teens</span>, most of them were A, B students and are now <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">underachieving</span> or barely attending classes. Many parents were dealing with <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">school refusal</span>, the simple act of getting out of bed to attend school was impossible.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Therapeutic settings first and foremost get your teen back on track <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">emotionally</em>, but they will <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">also</span> be working on your teenager’s academics.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Now that your teen is in a <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">structured and consistence</em> environment, they become <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">more focused</span> and start feeling good about themselves, which helps them to <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">improve </i>academically – either to get caught up or <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">surpass</em> where they were at their school at home.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">5. “Don’t these programs have <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">bad</em> kids; my child isn’t <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">that</em> bad?”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> </span>If no one had troubled teens or young adults, there would not be any need residential treatment facilities. Most schools for troubled teens are enrolled with <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">good kids</em> that come from<em style="box-sizing: border-box;"> good families</em>, possibly had a <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">good foundation</em>, however<em style="box-sizing: border-box;">, <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">took a wrong turn.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">The increase of technology has <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">not helped</span> this generation, screen-addiction, social media – they are not only facing peer pressure at school, but it is also in the palm of their hands 24/7/365.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;">Doing your due diligence in <a aria-label="Questions to Ask Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens" href="https://helpyourteens.com/questions-to-ask-boarding-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">researching boarding schools</span></a> helps you to be sure you are placing your teen in the<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;"> most <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">appropriate</em> setting.</span> Your teen will be with kids like themselves – and their families are like you, begging for help to get their child back to happiness and a functioning adult.</p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Read: <a aria-label="Teen Home Plan After Residential Treatment" href="https://helpyourteens.com/teen-home-plan-after-teen-residential-treatment/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">5 Components to Your Teen’s Aftercare Plan</a>.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Read: <a aria-label="5 Benefits of Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens" href="https://helpyourteens.com/5-benefits-of-boarding-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">5 Benefits to a Therapeutic Boarding School.</a></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Read: <a aria-label="What Is A Christian Therapeutic Boarding School" href="https://helpyourteens.com/what-is-a-christian-therapeutic-boarding-school/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">What Is a Christian Therapeutic Boarding School?</a></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #51565d; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.7rem; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">Read: </span><a aria-label="How Much Do Therapeutic Boarding Schools Cost?" href="https://helpyourteens.com/therapeutic-boarding-schools-cost/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bolder;">What Is the Cost of Therapeutic Boarding Schools?</span></a></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-19118933954893276412023-05-04T10:38:00.002-04:002023-05-04T10:38:12.218-04:00Social Media and Teen Girls Mental Health<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP5k2Tuwxx-FRpxhPkPk8XNBRScDWN6juqkmCOU3ZWSAs8gMQZnYp1dwkpiPe169pP-ei3le7-oqvV5cNOVx57ZWjstvlhWjJeCobAgmj6hseWOGYlta9VzIJOnZtbDnZGWluUU6IVVMjmx1eUApTEBHRTc9DCuNWH-029r1CLdKUHmSlb85o0UjH/s946/PexelsGirlsSelfWorth.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="946" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP5k2Tuwxx-FRpxhPkPk8XNBRScDWN6juqkmCOU3ZWSAs8gMQZnYp1dwkpiPe169pP-ei3le7-oqvV5cNOVx57ZWjstvlhWjJeCobAgmj6hseWOGYlta9VzIJOnZtbDnZGWluUU6IVVMjmx1eUApTEBHRTc9DCuNWH-029r1CLdKUHmSlb85o0UjH/s320/PexelsGirlsSelfWorth.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">According to a new report by Common Sense Media,</span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><a href="https://www.commonsensemedia.org/research/teens-and-mental-health-how-girls-really-feel-about-social-media" rel="noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teens and Mental Health: How Girls Really Feel About Social Media</span></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, nearly half (45%) of girls who use TikTok say they feel “</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">addicted</span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">” to the platform or use it more than intended at least weekly.</span><p></p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><p style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Among girls with moderate to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">severe depressive symptoms</span>, roughly seven in 10 who use Instagram (75%) and TikTok (69%) say they come across <a href="http://www.suescheffblog.com/teens-struggling-with-suicidal-thoughts/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">problematic suicide-related</span></a> content at least monthly on these platforms.</div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">The report surveyed more than 1,300 adolescent girls across the country to better understand how the most popular social media platforms and design features <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">impact</span> their lives today.</div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Among the report’s key findings, adolescent girls spend over two hours daily on TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat, and more than 90 minutes on Instagram and messaging apps. When asked about platform design features, the majority of girls believe that features like location sharing, public accounts, endless scrolling, and appearance filters have an effect on them, but they’re split on whether those <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">effects are positive or negative.</span></div><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Other notable findings are:</span></div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">-Over one-third of girls surveyed (38%) report <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">symptoms of depression</span>, and among these girls, social media has an outsize impact—for better and for worse.</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">-The majority of girls who use Instagram (58%) and Snapchat (57%) say they’ve been <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">contacted by a stranger</span> on these platforms in ways that make them uncomfortable.</div></div><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">These experiences were less common, though still frequent, on other platforms, with<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> nearly half of TikTok (46%)</span> and <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">messaging app (48%)</span> users having been <a href="http://www.suescheffblog.com/talking-to-teens-about-catfishing/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">contacted by strangers</span></a> on these platforms.</div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">-Many girls struggle with <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">body image</span> and have had a mixed relationship with social media as it pertains to their self-worth. Almost a third of the girls surveyed on TikTok (31%), Instagram (32%), and Snapchat (28%) say they<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> feel bad about their body</span> at least weekly when using these platforms.</div></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">However, on a positive note, nearly twice as many said they<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> felt good or accepting of their bodies</span> weekly while using TikTok (60%), Instagram (57%), and Snapchat (59%).</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="auto" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><h4 dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">In conclusion:</h4><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Overall, this is a snapshot of what our kids are <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">experiencing on social media</span> and how it is impacting their mental health and wellness. There is no doubt this is the generation of screen-time, cell-phone addiction, gaming, and all things that have to do with our teens and their attraction to digital media.</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parents weren’t prepared for this — and for many, the train has left the station and it’s a struggle to bring it back in. It doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try by implementing our parental authority, after-all, it is still the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">parents paying for the technology</span> (mobile devices).</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Personally, I know how difficult this is — I speak with <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">parents on a weekly basis</a>,</span> removing a phone is like starting an explosion in the home. I have talked to parents that have literally called their once angel of a child, “<em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">a terrorist</em>” as they attempted to turn off the Wi-Fi and/or <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">remove their cell-phone. </span></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Until you have experienced a teenager that is completely and wholeheartedly <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">addicted to their cell-phone</span> (social media), it’s hard to explain that warzone that can be experienced in a family’s home.</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I have spoken to experts that <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">don’t understand this type of obsession</span>, and believe that it’s all about digital education (which I believe in 100%), however, when things escalate to this level (which is happening regularly) that ship has sailed. It’s time for <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">intervention</span>, then we can talk about education. <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Mental health</span> needs to be addressed — first and foremost.</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Also read:</span></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/cyberbullying-effects/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">What are The Effects of Cyberbullying on Teens.</a></span></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div dir="auto" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-to-help-my-teen-handle-cyberbullying/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">How to Help My Teen Handle Cyberbullying.</a></span></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-84231680967244123842023-03-03T10:50:00.000-05:002023-03-03T10:50:20.187-05:00How Cyberbullying Can Impact Academic Performance<p><span style="color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0fV4k39rPeLNb6Y2-_CqVijar79sBYjF3VoUz9BdZf3l9hVqosHkFNR9J6YNFEngFRYoY_dKZllsgCIbXhVg269rDj82oWsYuUsMfwJE-EMzjbEDzmGi3u4ecQBL-sIA5yeGDgI6RElW1kPQxmRWtEcWn29Jv7opIeyvJjwIhb8dBu2oji4d8TI7/s1038/PexelTeenOnline2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="1038" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0fV4k39rPeLNb6Y2-_CqVijar79sBYjF3VoUz9BdZf3l9hVqosHkFNR9J6YNFEngFRYoY_dKZllsgCIbXhVg269rDj82oWsYuUsMfwJE-EMzjbEDzmGi3u4ecQBL-sIA5yeGDgI6RElW1kPQxmRWtEcWn29Jv7opIeyvJjwIhb8dBu2oji4d8TI7/s320/PexelTeenOnline2.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Although the pandemic might be mostly behind us, there are some lingering issues that have left parents with more concerns. Remote learning did not benefit every student, and we witnessed a surge in the need for <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/202208/does-my-teen-need-therapeutic-boarding-school" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">adolescent mental health services</a><span style="color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">.</span><p></p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Online learning was necessary and still holds value for many students. With the <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/202206/how-reduce-screen-time-and-improve-your-teens-health" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">increased screen time</a>, we also need to equip our students with both emotional and media literacy skills to handle cyberbullying.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-0" data-slot-position="0" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><h3 style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Prevalence of Online Harassment of Teens</h3><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">In <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/09/27/a-majority-of-teens-have-experienced-some-form-of-cyberbullying/" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">2018, PEW Research</a> shared that the majority of teens have been the target of online harassment and believe it is a big problem. According to the <a href="https://cyberbullying.org/summary-of-our-cyberbullying-research" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">Cyberbullying Research Center</a>, student victimization has been increasing steadily over the past 5 years.</p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Another study in <a href="https://sajim.co.za/index.php/sajim/article/view/925/1391" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">2019 in <em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">SAJIM</em></a> said that students were negatively affected both emotionally and academically by cyberbullying—to the extent that some thought of <a class="basics-link" href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide" hreflang="en-US" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(153, 153, 153); box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: inherit; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;" title="Psychology Today looks at suicide">suicide</a><em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">. </em>About 41 percent of the victims confirmed that they became less active in class, 24 percent confirmed that their school performance had dropped<em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">,</em> and 35 percent had repeated a grade since becoming targets of online bullying.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-1" data-slot-position="1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Since 2020, some parents have witnessed their smart teenager going from being a straight-A student to barely passing. Cyberbullying causes psychological harm just like bullying—if not worse in some situations since it is online and your teen can revisit the ugliness constantly<em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">.</em></p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">This emotional distress can cause depression, anger, anxiety, low self-worth, and school avoidance, and all this can lead to poor academic performance.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-2" data-slot-position="2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><h3 style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: normal; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 24px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">3 Ways to Help Your Teen Cope With Cyberbullying</h3><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Giving your teen the digital tools <em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;">offline</em> can help them cope with online bullying to improve their grades.</p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Proxima Nova Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><b>1. Acknowledge online hate and be prepared.</b></span> Sadly, cyberbullying happens to <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/202012/dealing-adult-bullying-during-the-pandemic" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">people of all ages</a>. It is likely your teen has already read a lot of disturbing and disheartening content on social media; however, when or if they become the target of a smear campaign is when they realize the emotional toll it takes on a person.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-3" data-slot-position="3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">By having a better understanding of cyberbullying (online shaming) and how prevalent it is, your teen will be more resilient if they are attacked online. It doesn't mean it will hurt less, but they will be prepared—knowing bad things do happen to<em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"> </em>good people.</p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Proxima Nova Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><b>2. Become knowledgeable about online tools. </b></span>Teens today are on many social platforms. It is crucial that your teen knows<em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"> </em>how to report online abuse and harassment<em style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"> </em>as well as how to block users on each platform they use. It is just as important that they read the "terms of service"<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Proxima Nova Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"> </span>as they pertain to harassment and abuse, so they understand what constitutes abuse on each platform.</p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Proxima Nova Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><b>3. Talk, talk, and talk more to help develop trust</b>. </span>Did you know that spending 15 minutes a day listening to and talking with your teen can help build the foundation for a strong relationship and provide support so that he/she can come to you with a problem?</p><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Most parents have a difficult time getting their teenager to communicate—however, short chats can lead to better relationships and your teen will feel more comfortable talking to you about embarrassing problems such as being humiliated online. One of the more troubling trends is <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/201802/sexting-scandals-slut-pages-nudes-what-teens-face-today" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">sextortion</a>, which can begin with <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/201710/the-normalcy-sexting-among-teens" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #477be4; font-family: "Proxima Nova Semi Bold", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none; word-break: break-word;">sexting</a>. If this happens with your teen, you want them to be able to come to you without hesitation.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-5" data-slot-position="5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">With or without the pandemic, technology is only evolving and education will always be key to your child's future. Securing their mental health and well-being is a priority and if they are struggling with online abuse, it must be addressed immediately. With digital harm, it can be easy for your teenager to focus on the negative and become overwhelmed with sadness and hopelessness, leaving them abandoning not only their studies but also things they used to enjoy.</p><div class="markup-replacement-slot markup-replacement-slot-6" data-slot-position="6" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; hyphens: auto; margin-bottom: 31px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><p style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; bottom: 7px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2c2d30; font-family: "Proxima Nova Regular", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; hyphens: auto; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 24px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; word-break: break-word;">Using these three ways will help your teenager be prepared if they face a time of despair online. Never doubt the impact you have on your child's life—<b>you are their greatest influence.</b></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-74723494484888442342023-02-03T10:58:00.002-05:002023-05-04T10:39:32.879-04:00Teenage Mental Health Options<p><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Teenage mental health is a growing concern, since 2020 studies have revealed that adolescent depression and anxiety has doubled. This is also causing the rise of suicide ideation and</span><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;"> </span><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/teen-cutting-and-self-harm-prevention/" rel="noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teen Cutting and Self-Harm Prevention">self-harm</a><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;"> </span><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">as well as youth self-medicating. </span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Since 2001 we have helped <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">educate</em> parents regarding <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/teen-mental-health-care-options/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teen Mental Health Care Options"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">mental health options</span> </a>for troubled teens in addition to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/what-are-therapeutic-boarding-schools/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="What Are Therapeutic Boarding Schools">therapeutic boarding schools</a></span>. This is not a decision that is made lightly.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Has your teenager’s behavior been <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">escalating</em> for <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">more than a year</span>? Are they becoming more withdrawn? Depressed or isolated?</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">More common is the following:</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">-Defiance (ADHD, ODD)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Anger, rage<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Cell-phone addiction (self-destructs when the phone is removed)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-School refusal (skipping classes)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Lacks motivation<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Changing peer groups<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Substance use (self-medicating)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Self-harm (relieves anxiety)<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Change in eating habits<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />-Poor hygiene</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Your teenager may be suffering with mental health issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible. In many cases it could be <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">typical teen behavior,</span> however when this behavior continues for a length of time<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> without improvement,</span> it is time for parents to intervene.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h3 class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3 Mental Health Options for Teens</h3><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h4 class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Therapy</h4><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukIdYnZ1m3X02mWK91VrikKBOKzhV_nk5O2fRWAJWx6B4MTOWM6I7CH4t1VOnTRUzQRkBzU8FQBDKQqN_5yp3PMXd8GR-AfPV5e024Dz2OiiF7kiNGhifmmtfcogL25103zmej8aL-GLBJUZVAajHtGBiAmKnpLmBPigfmi-m7nic28PP5v6DjPYR/s993/PexelTalkTherapy.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="993" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjukIdYnZ1m3X02mWK91VrikKBOKzhV_nk5O2fRWAJWx6B4MTOWM6I7CH4t1VOnTRUzQRkBzU8FQBDKQqN_5yp3PMXd8GR-AfPV5e024Dz2OiiF7kiNGhifmmtfcogL25103zmej8aL-GLBJUZVAajHtGBiAmKnpLmBPigfmi-m7nic28PP5v6DjPYR/s320/PexelTalkTherapy.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br />One of the first steps in getting your troubled teen help is finding an <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">adolescent therapist</span> or counselor for them to speak with — as simple as this may sound, is just as difficult as it might be. Teenagers can be stubborn, they may <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-to-convince-your-teen-to-go-to-counseling/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How to Convince Your Teen to Go to Counseling"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">refuse to attend</span></a> or possibly engage in a conversation with the counselor. Some teens will initially give it a try, but after a short-time will shut down and they therapy becomes non-effective.<p></p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">It’s important to at least try this as a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">first step</span>, since talking to an objective person can be extremely beneficial to your teenager. In some cases, going more than once a week in the beginning can be helpful to get them motivated. Your therapist may recommend and IOP (<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">intensive outpatient program</span>) locally, if they believe your teen needs more clinical hours.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">To locate a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">local therapist</span>, contact your insurance provider. Other resources include your local United Way and many churches offer youth counseling services.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h4 class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Teen Coaches</h4><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Many adults hire life coaches to help them set goals and keep them motivated, it can be very similar except it’s aimed at the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">teenage culture</span> and what they are dealing with in today’s generation. This can be especially useful when a teenager has <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">refused therapy</span> — in some cases they do not like the stigma attached to seeing a counselor since they do not believe need help.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">A lot of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/can-a-life-coach-help-my-troubled-teen/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">teen life coaches</a></span> were formerly (or currently) <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">licensed clinical social workers</span> or have degrees and backgrounds in psychology. These people can help your teen navigate their technology and find a healthy balance, handle online cyberbullying, as well as deal with real-life issues such as peers, parents and siblings.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">The main objective of teen life coaching is to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">restore the emotional health</span> and relationships, both with others and/or with themselves. Need to find a teen life coach? A simple online search for “<em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">teen life coaches</em>” should direct you to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">local coaches</span> for your consideration.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h4 class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Therapeutic Boarding Schools</h4><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Considering <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">boarding schools for troubled teens</span> is always the last resort — it is not only an <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">emotional decision;</span> it is a major financial decision. How do you know when it is <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/when-should-i-send-my-teen-away/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="When Should I Send My Teen Away?">time to send your teen</a> </span>to a therapeutic boarding school? As a parent, you will know when you have exhausted all your local resources and you now fear for your teen’s future. You are <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">unable to keep them safe and healthy</span> as your family is constantly walking on eggshells.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Choosing the<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> right behavioral boarding school</span> for your individual teen takes time and diligence, especially while <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/searching-places-to-send-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">searching online</a>. For over two decades we have shared with parents research advice, <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-to-interview-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">ways to interview schools</a>, questions to <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/questions-to-ask-parent-references/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">ask parent references</a>, common <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/questions-for-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">questions parents ask</a>, and how to decipher fact from fiction (and <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/troubled-teen-help-industry-negative-reviews/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="The Troubled Teen Industry Negative Reviews">misinformation</a>) online.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Therapeutic boarding schools</span> and programs are not only about the teenager – it is about <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">bringing the entire family back on a healthy path again.</span> The family is broken right now. We are not here to point fingers, we’re here to help famlies heal and get on a road to recovery.</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Also read:</span></p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/are-therapeutic-boarding-schools-effective/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Are Therapeutic Boarding Schools Effective?">Are Therapeutic Boarding Schools Effective?</a></span></p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/why-does-residential-treatment-work-when-home-therapy-fails/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Residential Treatment Works When Home Therapy Fails?">Why Residential Therapy Works When Therapy Fails?</a></span></p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/what-is-the-goal-of-therapeutic-boarding-school/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="What Is the Goal Of Therapeutic Boarding School">What Are the Goals of Therapeutic Boarding Schools?</a></span></p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">###</p><p class="nitro-offscreen" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you’re considering a therapeutic boarding school for your difficult teenager, c</span><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">ontact us for a <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">free consultation.</a></span></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-21003086186727332712023-01-03T13:16:00.000-05:002023-01-03T13:16:09.675-05:00Schools for Troubled Teens<p> <span style="font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">It is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make, does your troubled teen need a therapeutic boarding school? Searching for schools for troubled teens is no small task.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Did you know one internet search for “<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">schools for troubled teens</em></span>” yields nearly <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">9 million</span> results? How do you decide what is best for your struggling teenager?</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/PexelDogTherapy2.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-36254" decoding="async" height="202" loading="lazy" src="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/PexelDogTherapy2-300x202.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; float: right; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" width="300" /></a>It is typically the first time you are considering these types of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">behavioral boarding schools</span> after <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/when-should-i-send-my-teen-away/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="When Should I Send My Teen Away?">exhausting your local resources</a></span>, and not aware of what is available. The terminology can be confusing, such as should you choose a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/difference-between-therapeutic-boarding-school-residential-treatment-center/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Therapeutic Boarding School vs Residential Treatment Center">therapeutic boarding school or a residential treatment center</a></span>?</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Does your teen need a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">same gender program</span> or would coed more beneficial for them? Maybe you are considering a ranch program or a program with a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/what-is-a-christian-therapeutic-boarding-school/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="What Is A Christian Therapeutic Boarding School">spiritual component</a></span>. Do you have a young adult — curious about what <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/help-for-struggling-young-adults/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Help For Struggling Young Adults">life-skills programs</a></span> can offer them and how they can enhance their future?</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Since 2001 we have helped parents learn about <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">places for troubled teens</span> as well as how to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/searching-for-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Searching for Schools for Troubled Teens Online">search for schools</a></span> for troubled teens online.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Cost of Schools for Troubled Teens</h3><div><br /></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">One of the first things parents need to brace themselves for is the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">sticker-shock.</span> The average tuition of therapeutic boarding schools starts at about $9000 monthly. You will notice that the majority of the websites do not list their tuition costs. Once you start your research, you will notice that $9000 is actually the lower end as most will average about $12,000 and up monthly.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Before you kill the messenger, there are ways to offset these fees. Starting with medical insurance. If you have <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">PPO insurance</span> that offers out-of-network benefits, you will likely have a portion of the tuition covered. There are some programs that will file your insurance for you — and some will deduct it from your monthly tuition. Feel free to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">contact us</a> </span>for the programs that participate in filing insurances.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you have HMO, Medicaid, or Tricare, they do require you to stay in-network. If your family doesn’t want out-of-pocket costs, we advise you to contact your insurance provider directly for a list of residential</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> treatment centers <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">in-network.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">There are also <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/paying-for-teen-help-programs-with-educational-loans/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Paying for Teen Help Programs with Educational Loans">educational loans</a> </span>available through various lenders. Our <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/financial-options/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Financial Options for Schools for Troubled Teens">financial page</a> offers a list of ways parents have offset costs for therapeutic programs.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Online Search for Troubled Youth Programs</h3><div><br /></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Be an educated parent when you jump online to search for schools for troubled teens, <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">skip over the</span> <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">sponsored listings</span> as well as <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">marketing arms</span>, they are not always in the best interest of your teenager. There are schools and programs that have been in business for <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">decades</span> that will <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">organically</em> come up since their URL has been around a long time.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">When you land on a site that is selling schools and programs take a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">moment to pause</span> — if there is a program on that site that piques your interest, write it down.<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> Open a new browser</span> and<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> contact them directly.</span> When you go through marketing arms or directory sites you risk selling your information to third parties. Again, this is not in the best interest of your child.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Another distraction can be the numerous negative websites that have created fearmongering for parents that causes them to second guess a decision to get their child the help they may need. Make no mistake about it, there are some bad apples in this industry, however when you are <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/troubled-teen-help-industry-negative-reviews/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="The Troubled Teen Industry Negative Reviews"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">equipped with knowledge</span></a> you are able to find the right therapeutic boarding school for your troubled teen.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Specialty Programs for Troubled Teens</h3><div><br /></div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">One of the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">most important elements</span> in choosing the right school for your troubled teen is the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">specialty</span><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> programs</span> or enrichment programs they offer. What is part of their program that <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">stimulates</em> your child and motivates them in a positive direction — as well as building self-worth? Let’s face it, you are placing them in a therapeutic boarding school for both emotional growth as well as<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> educational achievement</span>, but they also need ways to encourage change to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">help with teen issues.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Some examples are:</span> <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/benefits-of-animal-assisted-therapy-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Benefits of Animal Assisted Therapy for Troubled Teens"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Animal therapy</span></a> (equine, canine), <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-music-therapy-heals-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How Music Therapy Heals Troubled Teens">music therapy</a>, <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-art-therapy-benefits-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How Art Therapy Benefits Troubled Teens">art therapy</a>, <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/gardening-therapy-helps-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Gardening Therapy Helps Troubled Teens">gardening therapy</a>, culinary, and more.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Also read:</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/questions-for-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Questions Parents Ask About Schools for Troubled Teens">Frequent Questions Parents Ask About Therapeutic Schools</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/how-to-interview-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How to Interview Schools for Troubled Teens">How to Interview Schools for Troubled Teens</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/success-rate-therapeutic-boarding-schools/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="What Is the Success Rate of Therapeutic Boarding Schools">Success of Therapeutic Schools</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">###</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you are considering a therapeutic boarding school for your troubled teen, contact us for a <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">free consultation</a>.</span></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-11633332447847195652022-10-10T09:36:00.001-04:002022-10-10T09:36:49.952-04:003 Reasons Why Teens Are Depressed<p> <span style="font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Teenage sadness and depression rates have been climbing since 2020. Parents are asking this question, “</span><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Why is my teen depressed?</em><span style="font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">” </span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelSadTeen6.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-35735" height="200" loading="lazy" src="https://helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PexelSadTeen6-300x200.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; float: right; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" width="300" /></a></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">There can be many reasons for your teen to be feeling <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">sad or depressed.</span> While no one can explain exactly why, <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">many experts</em> say teens and young adults today probably face <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">more</em> pressures at home or school, worry about <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">financial issues</span> for their families, and use <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">more</em> <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">alcohol and drugs.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">This is in <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">addition</em> to keeping up with their <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">digital life.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3 Common Reasons for Teenage Depression:</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Addressing depression is crucial for your<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> teenager’s mental health and wellness.</span> Understanding some of the common reasons for <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">depression</em> can help you help your child. It does not replace getting professional help.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Bullying. </span>Never underestimate the power of words and the long-lasting effect if has on your child. Generations earlier have failed to realize the emotional damage and consequences that hurtful and harmful words have on young people — the old <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">cliché that sticks and stones will break your bones, but words could never hurt</em> is now <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">history. </span>Words hurt and can leave a trail of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">emotional scars</span> for years if not addressed.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teens that are <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">bullied by other students</span> at school are more likely to develop <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/warning-signs-of-depression/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Warning Signs Of Depression">depression</a>.</span> Some of the common signs include appetite changes, trouble sleeping, emotional disturbances, and possibly <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/teen-suicide-ideation/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">thoughts of suicide</a>.</span> You may notice they start isolating themselves from friends and even family events. They lose interest in their favorite activities and possibly drop out of their sports or other extra-curriculum that they once enjoyed.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Social Media.</span> Although social media has many positive attributes, it also has been blamed for the increase of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">depression</span> for all ages. Many teens are seeking <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">gratification and approval </span>through their social media platforms, basing their self-worth on how many “likes” or followers they garnish through their posts. Teenagers who search for <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">acceptance on social media</span> are more likely to succumb to those that are not always going to agree with them. Another words, they are at a higher risk of<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://helpyourteens.com/cyberbullying-effects/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="What Are The Effects of Cyberbullying on Teens?"> <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">cyberbullying</em> </a></span>and online hate.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">There is a vast amount of research which concurs that teens that are victims of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">online bullying and harassment</span> has consistently led to higher levels of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">depression and anxiety. </span>In addition, <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://www.dovepress.com/current-perspectives-the-impact-of-cyberbullying-on-adolescent-health-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-AHMT" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">one study</a></span> found that 93% of the teens that were victimized felt <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">sadness,</em></span> hopelessness, powerlessness and loneliness. Another <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a class="content-link css-g0xkld" href="https://eprints.gla.ac.uk/120206/7/120206.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">study</a> </span>explored the impact of teen social media use and found that those who used social media both more overall and at night had <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">higher levels</em> of <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">depression</span> and poorer sleep.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Academic Pressure.</span> Teens are feeling <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">stressed</em> to perform well in school or in some situations they experience <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">pressure</span> to play sports or other extracurricular activities they may not be motivated to participate in. Students feeling <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">academic stress</span> are over <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs13312-015-0609-y" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2 times</a></span> <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">higher risk</em> of experiencing depression compared to those that don’t feel overwhelmed with school.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">As colleges have become more <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">competitive and costly</em></span>, students and parents have concerns about how they will meet the higher education demands.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">In conclusion:</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">A <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">mental health professional</span> can help with teen issues and it is best to start as soon as possible. Therapy can help teens understand <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">why</span> </em>they are depressed and learn<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> how to cope</span> with <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">stressful</em> situations. Depending on the situation, treatment may consist of individual,<a href="https://helpyourteens.com/why-group-therapy-benefits-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Group Therapy Benefits Troubled Teens"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> group</span></a> or family counseling.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Depression is <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">serious</em> and, if left untreated, can worsen to the point of becoming life-threatening. If depressed <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">teens refuse treatment</span>, parents should seek professional advice from a therapist on how to handle this situation. It might be time to consider a<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/why-therapeutic-boarding-schools-work-for-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Therapeutic Boarding Schools Work for Teens">therapeutic boarding school.</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Read: <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/questions-to-ask-boarding-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Questions to Ask Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens">How To Interview Therapeutic Schools.</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Read:<a href="https://helpyourteens.com/5-benefits-of-boarding-schools-for-troubled-teens/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="5 Benefits of Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens"> 5 Benefits of Therapeutic Boarding Schools.</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Read: <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/are-therapeutic-boarding-schools-effective/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Are Therapeutic Boarding Schools Effective?">Are Therapeutic Boarding Schools Effective?</a></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">###</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Are you struggling with your depressed teenager and local therapy has not worked? <a href="https://helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> for a free consultation, since 2001 we have helped parents find the right residential treatment for their teen.</span></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-19306657508680386532022-06-27T10:59:00.002-04:002022-06-27T10:59:16.187-04:00Why Smart Teens Fail in School<p> <span style="font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Finding out your smart teen has failing grades and may not be passing can be extremely stressful and frustrating. Failed classes lead to a lower GPA as well as may delay them graduating from high school on time. If your teen has a first-choice college that requires a higher GPA, lagging behind in school can also effect this. Once your teen starts falling behind, catching up can be difficult — when grades begin to plummet, many teens give up.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><div class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-1" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BigstockFrustratedTEen.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="Help Your Teens BigstockFrustratedTEen-300x200 Why Do Teens Fail in School? " class="alignright size-medium wp-image-21275" height="200" loading="lazy" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BigstockFrustratedTEen-300x200.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; float: right; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" width="300" /></a></div><p class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-2" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If your teen is <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">failing a class</span>—or they’ve already failed the entire semester—<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">take action</span>. There are several things you can do to address the issue.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h4 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Why is my teen failing?</h4><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Once you realize your teen is failing a class or in <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">danger of not passing</span>, it’s time to sit down and <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/tips-to-help-start-talking-to-your-teen/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Tips to Help Start Talking to Your Teen">discuss the problem</a>. Ask your teen for help uncovering the they are not passing.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Some students who start out strong get distracted, while others just aren’t motivated to stay on track. Maybe your teen gets involved in a <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/why-is-my-teen-hanging-with-the-wrong-crowd/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Is My Teen Hanging With the Wrong Crowd">wrong peer group</a>.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-7" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Talk to your teen and examine whether or not <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">any of these issues</span> have contributed to a failing grade.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Are the classes too hard? </span> Is your teen in gifted or AP classes? Sometimes teens are places in classes that are just too difficult and they become stressed and overwhelmed.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Are they not doing their homework?</span> Many smart teens are capable of passing tests <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">yet fail to turn in their homework</span> which can result in a failing grade. Find out if the homework is being completed or not turned in on time.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Are they getting low test scores?</span> In some situations, smart teens don’t score well on tests due to <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teens-skipping-class-because-of-anxiety/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teens Skipping Class Because of Anxiety">test anxiety</a> while others <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">aren’t sure how to study</span> for tests.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">4. Is your teen under a lot of stress?</span> Especially in today’s world, <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">stress</span> has become a factor with young people. If your <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">teen is stressed out,</span> they may have difficultly concentrating and completely their work.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">5. Could a mental health issue be part of the problem? </span> Teen <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">depression and anxiety</span> has doubled since 2019. It’s a growing concern for teens and often contributes to failing grades. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/15-warning-signs-of-teen-drug-use/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="15 Warning Signs of Teen Drug Use">Substance abuse issues</a> can also be a factor in <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">declining grade</span>s. <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder</span> (ADHD) and <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">learning disabilities</span> can impact concentration, motivation, comprehension, and memory – especially if they go undiagnosed.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Work together to <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">develop a plan to address failing grades</span>. Discuss possible strategies to help them<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> improve their grade,</span> such as arranging for tutoring. If they’re not able to pass the class, talk to the school about alternative options such as<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> summer school</span> or adult education classes.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you’ve exhausted your local resources and your smart teen is struggling academically, as well as emotionally, learn more about the <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/why-does-residential-treatment-work-when-home-therapy-fails/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Does Residential Treatment Work When Home Therapy Fails?">benefits of residential treatment</a> and how it can help your teen. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> for more information.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><pre style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow: auto; padding: 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Sources: VeryWellFamily
Image provided by Bigstock.</pre>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-72984488035247883142022-05-27T09:01:00.007-04:002022-05-27T09:03:16.701-04:00How to Talk to My Teen About Tragedy<p> </p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: normal;">Talking to Teens About Tragedy</span></h2><p> </p><p><strong>Many of us remember Columbine as if it was yesterday. Since then the number of shootings, including school tragedies is overwhelming. It never gets easier to hear about, but what's more concerning is the impact that it's having on our young people. News is a 24-hour cycle these days not to mention your teen's social media feeds. </strong></p><p><strong><br /></strong></p><p><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/PixabayTeens.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-7467" height="296" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/PixabayTeens-300x296.jpg" width="300" /></a></p><p>Any news event about at tragedy will be played and replayed as details emerge. Chances are they will hear about a tragedy before their parents thanks to the internet.</p><p> </p><p>Peers talk, televisions are left on for snippets to be overheard, and social media is a <strong>constant</strong> source of news. More often than not those facts your child receives about a tragedy won’t be accurate and can fuel anxiety. <strong>Teens need hear the facts</strong>, and <strong>you</strong> are their best source.</p><p> </p><p> </p><h3>How do we talk to our teens about these tragedies?</h3><p> </p><p>It's time to turn to the experts.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Dr. Michele Borba,</strong> a leading educational psychologist shares her <a href="http://micheleborba.com/10-tips-talk-kids-tragedy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">10 Tips to Talk to Kids About Tragedy</a> including her T.A.L.K. model.</p><p> </p><h4><strong>T – Talk</strong> about the event.</h4><p> </p><p>Ensure that your child/teen has accurate information that come from you so as not to develop unfounded fears.</p><p> </p><h4><strong>A – Assess</strong> how your child is coping.</h4><p> </p><p>Every child/teen handles a tragedy differently. There is no predicting. Tune into your child’s feelings and behavior. Watch and listen how he deals with the event so you’ll know how to help him cope and build resilience.</p><p> </p><h4><strong>L – Listen</strong> to your child’s concerns and questions.</h4><p> </p><p>Use the “<strong>Talk. Stop. Listen. Talk. Stop. Listen</strong>” model as your discuss a tragedy. Listen more than your talk. Follow your child’s lead.</p><p> </p><h4><strong>K – Kindle </strong>hope that the world will go on despite the horror.</h4><p> </p><p>Help your children realize though there is tragedy, evil and horror <strong>there is also goodness, compassion and hope</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Order Dr. Michele Borba's bestselling book, <a href="https://amzn.to/3wIpqZG" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Thrivers: The Surprising Reasons Why Some Kids Shine and Others Struggle</a>.</strong></p><p> </p><hr /><p> </p><p><strong>Dr. Robyn Silverman</strong> is a child and teen development specialist wrote an informative blog post on helping direct parents in try to<em> make sense of this senseless act</em>.</p><p> </p><ul><li>Get children <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-help-during-the-mental-health-crisis/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Teen Help During the Mental Health Crisis">mental help</a> when they need it.</li><li>Do social skills training with kids who are <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/how-to-know-if-my-teen-is-narcissist/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="How to Know If My Teen Is Narcissist">lacking in empathy</a>.</li><li>Be a mentor or help find a mentor for children who can use some guidance.</li><li>See children for their strengths, not simply for what they lack.</li></ul><p> </p><p><a href="https://drrobynsilverman.com/how-to-talk-to-kids-about-traumatic-events-and-natural-disasters-with-karen-young-rerelease/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">How to Talk to Kids About Traumatic Events</a> Podcast with Dr. Robyn Silverman.</p><p> </p><hr /><p> </p><p><strong>Melissa Fenton</strong>, a former librarian, who brought us the compelling essay about parent shaming, "<a href="http://www.scarymommy.com/perfect-parents-put-down-pitchforks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Put Down Your Pitchforks</a>," nails it again, when she pens on the website Grown and Flown, "<a href="https://grownandflown.com/trying-perfect-killing-teens/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Trying to be 'Perfect' is Killing Our Teens and We're to Blame.</a>"</p><p> </p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: times;"><a href="https://grownandflown.com/college-student-anxiety-depression/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Teenagers are suffering from depression and anxiety in record-setting numbers</a>. Stumped researchers, social scientists, and psychologists have only begun to investigate the causes, many of which they have linked to smart phone and social media use, but is that really it? Could be, seeing as how they’re growing up under a selfie spotlight – with images of perfection constantly loading in their devices – perpetuating the great lie that everyone else has it more together and better than they do.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times;"> </span></p><p><strong><span style="font-family: times;">And we got here when we opened every conversation with our high schoolers about futures, goals, and achievements with the words, “I just want you to succeed,” instead of the words, “I just want you to be happy.”</span></strong></p></blockquote><p> </p><p>Take time to <strong>read this entire essay</strong>. It's a must read and share it with every parent of a teenager.</p><p> </p><hr /><p> </p><p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/how-to-help-your-teen-develop-empathy/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="How to Help Your Teen Develop Empathy">How to Help Your Teen Develop Empathy</a>.</strong></p><p> </p><p style="text-align: center;">*********************</p><p> </p><p><strong>If you are struggling with your troubled teenager and you have exhausted your local resources, learn more about how <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/why-does-residential-treatment-work-when-home-therapy-fails/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Why Does Residential Treatment Work When Home Therapy Fails?">residential treatment</a> can help you teen. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> today for a free consultation.</strong></p><p> </p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-44444628982905189652022-05-02T10:43:00.001-04:002022-05-02T10:43:33.618-04:00How to Deal With Your Teen Wanting to Quit School<p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Years ago, generations earlier, school was never an option. We were expected to finish high school without even a consideration of dropping out or quitting. We all had road bumps, rough spots, as teens do — however dropping out simply wasn’t an option. Kids that left school to get a GED were typically facing legal issues. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EkzndspAF7tzRivuUEXcl0FiA_lxWUEoosl9OP-ZqcJmD_qPzw7TrUT4Z2rvdAv-0ilbA3JcHzTNhJh418xjxzpRTYLXK2Ye1tZUjEOI1yNUosJIJz0CRilfWd05slr7u6fHuhiIbPUONhzgfOj2t8z8sCfk24hZ5ARJZ1jY4u64NXzhBdPtbUYn/s485/PexelsPTSDBoy.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="443" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EkzndspAF7tzRivuUEXcl0FiA_lxWUEoosl9OP-ZqcJmD_qPzw7TrUT4Z2rvdAv-0ilbA3JcHzTNhJh418xjxzpRTYLXK2Ye1tZUjEOI1yNUosJIJz0CRilfWd05slr7u6fHuhiIbPUONhzgfOj2t8z8sCfk24hZ5ARJZ1jY4u64NXzhBdPtbUYn/w183-h200/PexelsPTSDBoy.PNG" width="183" /></a></div><br />Today more and more young people are not only thinking about leaving high school, they are avoiding school (<a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/why-does-my-smart-teen-skip-school/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Does My Smart Teen Skip School">skipping classes</a> in higher numbers than prior generations) and don’t seem to value the importance of education.<p></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">No parent wants to hear their teen wants to drop out of high school, but it is something that about 1 in every 10 people do. This is troubling for parents because statistically speaking, kids who do not graduate from high school are limited in their job potential and make less money than those who do graduate. This is disheartening for a parent, and can cause an emotional reaction that may not be best for either of you.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">First it’s important to determine why your teen wants to leave school. </span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">5 Possible Reasons Teens Choose to Drop Out of School:</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Mental health.</span> Teens deal with <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teens-skipping-class-because-of-anxiety/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teens Skipping Class Because of Anxiety">depression and anxiety</a>, and if not addressed, this can pile up into other major <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">mental health issues</span> that force them to drop out.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Boredom.</span> Some teens are <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">simply bored and lose interest</span> in academics. In some situations, teens may want to quit their studies to pursue their passion for art or acting. The lure of fame and fortune become attractive as popular social media influencers greatly impact teenagers. Maybe rich kids don’t feel like they need to attend school.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Substance abuse.</span> There are teenagers that leave school and studies due to <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teens-and-drug-use-beyond-addiction/" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Teens and Drug Use Addiction">drug addiction</a> and substance abuse. <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Alcohol addiction</span> is also another reason that explains why teenagers drop out of school.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">4. Bullying (cyberbullying) and harassment</span> is a growing concern. Your teen might be a target (victim) of bullying at school or even online, leaving them with a sense of humiliation and embarrassment. Many young people are too ashamed to even tell their parents when they are being harassed at school. This can eventually lead to your teen begging to leave the school.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">5. Problems at home</span> can be sometimes cause your teen difficulties to focus on their studies or want to continue with school. They’re worried about their parents or siblings (maybe a <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/how-divorce-can-increase-teens-stress/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How an Impending Divorce Can Increase Your Teen’s Stress">pending divorce</a>, family violence, or other troubles in the house) that is causing them to feel withdrawn.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Preventing Your Teen From Dropping Out of School</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">There are some things to consider if your teenager wants to drop out of high school–here are some tips so you both know where to start the discussion.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/tips-for-talking-to-your-teen/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Tips for Talking to Your Teen">Communication is key</a>, let’s start with finding out <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">why they want to leave school.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">1. In reviewing the list above, it is important to discuss the reasoning behind your teenager’s decision to quite high school. Are they being bullied (do they feel threatened), or do they find their courses overwhelming and feel like there is no point to going.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If they are struggling with their classes, you can suggest a tutor or possibly changing courses. Let your teen know you are on their side. If bullying is the issue, it’s likely they won’t want you to get involved. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t on some level — such as getting your child the emotional support they need as well as making sure the school is aware of this situation. Suggest to your teen that you are open to changing schools rather than dropping out.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Keep in mind your teen believes they are almost an adult and can make wise decisions for themselves. It’s important to have a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">respectful conversation</span> with them — not to belittle them or react with anger and rage about this thought of dropping out of school. Talk to them calmly about the risk of dropping out as far as their future earnings and the doors that will close to them in the future.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Ask your teen what they want for their future, whether it’s a car, house or to take nice vacations. Talk with them about limits they will have with low paying jobs. Base the numbers factually; not scare tactics are necessary when showing your teenager how much he will have to dole out for monthly expenses.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If your teen argues he’s not college material, you can help them understand that trade schools also require high school diplomas. Trade schools should also be encouraged by all parents of teenagers that are interested in these jobs. Think about what you paid your electrician or HVAC professional the last time he came to your home?</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Reach out to your teen’s school.</span> Schedule a meeting with teachers and school administrators. Determine if any accommodations need to be made to foster your teen’s learning experience. While problems at home can be a part of the choice to drop out, more times than not there is a problem at school that is the driving cause of this choice.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">4. Getting your teen help</span>. If you realize your teen is struggling with signs of depression, withdrawn, <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/how-to-help-my-teens-social-media-addiction/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="How to Help My Teen’s Social Media Addiction">addicted to their devices</a>, becoming isolated from their friends – or other signs of mental health issues, it’s likely time to see a professional. Getting your teen help early can help prevent the thoughts of quitting school. Like with many adults, when struggling with sadness, you don’t want to get out of bed. If your teen is using drugs or drinking, it may be time to consider <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/does-my-teen-need-residential-therapy/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Does My Teen Need Residential Therapy?">residential therapy</a>.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">5. The last resort is considering alternative school settings</span>. The school environment could be contributing to your teen’s trouble. If other methods fail, you may have to look into enrolling your teen in a charter school, alternative school, magnet school, career academy, general educational development (GED) program or some other setting that is more conducive to their success. As we all know — education is key for their future.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Remember, your are your teen’s advocate.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-align: center; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">*****************************************</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you’re struggling with your teen and you’ve exhausted your local resources, learn more about how <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/why-does-residential-treatment-work-when-home-therapy-fails/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Why Does Residential Treatment Work When Home Therapy Fails?">residential treatment</a> can benefit your family. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> for more information.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-22000483355832283322022-03-30T11:11:00.004-04:002022-03-30T11:12:01.148-04:00Smartphone Contract for Your Teenager <p><span face="Open Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>Having a smartphone contract can help your teen manage their screen time.</b></span></span></p><p><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSCZusMMIUWhZhTrjWJdELhc1EhyNRdnQ_yI4dK24Ah_gG5RuRPBrGu6kg6BUk0VuGA6eiQx3i-E7B5tsCDGiVkojDtwirNPesb-kIKpSgvsgIfDEAYad9QhQ1e6C_o4xx5nGQXkSTEKGL_lLocivo03-5l8pWMgkXUnAINMqhuNG7cFe4S8a6jHv/s802/PexelOnlineTeens.PNG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="802" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSCZusMMIUWhZhTrjWJdELhc1EhyNRdnQ_yI4dK24Ah_gG5RuRPBrGu6kg6BUk0VuGA6eiQx3i-E7B5tsCDGiVkojDtwirNPesb-kIKpSgvsgIfDEAYad9QhQ1e6C_o4xx5nGQXkSTEKGL_lLocivo03-5l8pWMgkXUnAINMqhuNG7cFe4S8a6jHv/s320/PexelOnlineTeens.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Giving kids a cell phone means giving them a lot of responsibility. Having a <span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">cell phone contract</span><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"> is a good way to manage some of the challenges that can come along with a phone. This is especially important for kids who are easily distracted or who struggle with impulse control.</span><p></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">A cell phone contract can also help set limits on how much kids can spend each month on apps. If time management is a problem, you can set “phone-free” hours during class or at mealtimes or bedtime. These are some of the reasons why a cell phone contract may be especially helpful for kids with <a class="primary-link" data-utrack-click="navigation" data-vars-button-name="embedded_link" data-vars-content-id="9ee70fba4d2842e3b43d1a0864d4cee9" data-vars-content-url="/articles/en/what-is-adhd" data-vars-event-action="contextual" data-vars-event-category="articles" data-vars-event-label="/articles/en/what-is-adhd" data-vars-is-content="true" data-vars-is-external="false" data-vars-unit-name="embedded_link" href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/advice-for-teens-with-adhd/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Advice for Teens with ADHD">ADHD </a>.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Creating a smartphone contract between you and your <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">teen (tween)</span> is an excellent way to teach your child about these <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">rules and responsibilities</span>, as well as the <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">consequences</span> for not seeing them through. Be sure you go over every item in your contract, giving your child the opportunity to ask questions and even make suggestions.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Here's an example of ideas for a smartphone contract:</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-15" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Make a list of your teen’s responsibilities, such as:</span></p><ul style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 26px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 23px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will share their phone’s password with their parents and they may use it to check my phone at any time.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will not send threatening or mean texts to others.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will not be on their phone after 9pm.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will answer or respond promptly when their parents contact them.</span></li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will not bring their smartphone to the dinner table.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen is responsible for knowing where their phone is and keeping it in good condition.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will use rules of etiquette regarding cell phones in public places, such as restaurants, church or with others.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will obey rules at school regarding electronic devices, such as turning them off in class.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will tell their parents if they receive suspicious or alarming calls or texts from unknown people.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will tell their parents or a trusted adult if they are being harassed online.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will not use their cell phone to bully/cyberbully another person.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will send no more than ____ texts per day.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen not send inappropriate photos or take embarrassing photos of others.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen cannot use their phone to buy or download anything without asking permission.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen cannot create fake accounts on social media and pretend to be older than they are.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen cannot turn-off their GPS system on their smartphone.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen cannot manipulate parental controls on their smartphone.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will only have <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">3 sound notifications</span> turned on. This can reduce stress levels. Every time a bell, ring or any alert sounds, it can trigger stress and anxiety.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen will only check their phone every 15-30 minutes, depending on the day. It’s important to start developing healthy screen time early.</li></ul><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Open Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Consequences:</span></span></h1><div><span face="Open Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><p class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-21" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">The consequences for breaking smartphone usage rules that can lead to having their device removed:</span></p><div class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-22" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="comp mntl-block" id="mntl-block_21-0" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></div></div><ul class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-23" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 26px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 23px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen understands that having a <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">cell phone is a privilege, not a right;</span> if they fail to adhere to this contract, their cell phone privilege may be revoked.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If needed, they may help pay for the cost of the phone and/or for excess charges that they incur without permission from their parents, such as making purchases or downloads without a parents permission.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen understands that their cell phone may be taken away if they talk back to their parents, don’t do their chores, or <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">fail to keep their grades up</span>.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen understands if they are engaging in risky behavior, such as <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/15-warning-signs-of-teen-drug-use/" rel="noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #26aeb7; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="15 Warning Signs of Teen Drug Use">substance use</a>, sneaking out, disrespect to others, etc – it’s likely their smartphone will be removed.</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Open Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Parent responsibilities:</span></span></h3></div><div><span face="Open Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><p class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-30" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Detail the parent responsibilities:</span></p><ul class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html" id="mntl-sc-block_1-0-32" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 26px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 23px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I understand that I will make myself available to answer any questions my child might have about owning a smartphone and using it responsibly.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I will let my teen know that there is are parental controls in place for their safety. We will never invade their privacy unless we feel they are in danger.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I will <span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">support my teen</span> when they tell me to an alarming message that they have received or if they are being harassed or feel threatened online.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I will tell my child if our cell phone plan changes.</li><li style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I will give my child _______ warning(s) before I take his or her cell phone away.</li></ul><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Be sure to check in regularly with your teen to review the contract. Talk about what’s working and what you could change to make the contract more helpful.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Learn more about <a href="http://helpyourteens.com">helpyourteens.com</a>.</span></p></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-34018930175410984272022-02-24T09:24:00.005-05:002022-02-24T09:40:55.551-05:00Sue Scheff Interview with Career Thoughts<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Interview with Sue Scheff by Career Thoughts</span></h2><p><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOiGp_EsS-kiSOxrXKQP5G4-_9bkWieNleVG2GqiuaNAQfnsXCgYxbOAIzF0Yr6zpG0IUvaDQY0bCAVJmBVi4W57iFxLeuzXx1jnR78IVpPEyRC2HFtYxaMSrRnpiowi7o4VDV-Ob-T9mE_1TASt9n7BLtzECA-NJ1xlD82UpvHXxmLhcPD6R68zdT=s864" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="747" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOiGp_EsS-kiSOxrXKQP5G4-_9bkWieNleVG2GqiuaNAQfnsXCgYxbOAIzF0Yr6zpG0IUvaDQY0bCAVJmBVi4W57iFxLeuzXx1jnR78IVpPEyRC2HFtYxaMSrRnpiowi7o4VDV-Ob-T9mE_1TASt9n7BLtzECA-NJ1xlD82UpvHXxmLhcPD6R68zdT=s320" width="277" /></a></span></div><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />Sue Scheff</span><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 14px;"> has spent over 20 years (since 2001) helping parents of struggling teens. She has based her business (</span><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Parents’ Universal Resource Experts</a><span face=""Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: 14px;">) off of her own experience as a parent of an at-risk child, and is motivated by the goal of helping other parents who find themselves in the same situation she was once in.</span><p></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">By listening to the problems that their teens are facing and providing a voice of reason, she is able to help parents better understand the needs of their teens, and identify programs that they can turn to for help. Sue has also written a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0757306977/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=helpyourteens-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0757306977&linkId=657b31c0459d2e69afceef6f793eeb7e" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">book</a> on the topic, and has told her story on many programs including The Today Show, Dr. Phil, Anderson Cooper, The Early Show, Mel Robbins, The Rachel Ray Show, and CBS Nightly News with Katie Couric.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Sue was gracious enough to <a href="https://www.karikampakis.com/2020/09/when-my-daughter-drove-me-to-my-wits-end-guest-post-by-sue-scheff/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">share her story</a> with us, and we hope that it will be inspirational to you as think of ways that you could turn your own life experiences and passions into a career.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">When someone comes to you for help, what is the process you go through to help them identify the best resources available to them and their teens?</div><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parents will usually fill out an intake form or call us on the phone with information regarding their teen and what issues they are having. Depending on what they have stated we can discuss local resources versus out-patient, and their last resort being residential therapy.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If they have come to the decision they need residential therapy, we will help educate them on the different types of programs there are such as Residential Treatment Centers, Therapeutic Boarding Schools, Wilderness Programs, Military Schools, Boot Camps, etc. Many times we have to explain that Military Schools are not for troubled teens, they are a privilege and honor to attend.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">We also help parents understand that when teens are acting out negatively, placing them into a negative environment such as a boot camp, can build anger and resentment. I personally don’t believe in boot camps or recommend them. We believe in building kids up, not breaking them down.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Understanding their needs is very important and helping them to understand that their teen is in need of help can sometimes be more difficult. I have found that although a parent will call or request help online, they will also be in denial.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parents will tell me how their teen is smoking pot or using drugs, as well as drinking and other risky behaviors, failing in school and sneaking out frequently, yet in the next breath I hear is their teen is so smart and really a good kid.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I believe they are smart (academically) – but if they truly were (common sense anyway), would they be acting like this? They are folding under peer pressure, usually struggling with low self-worth and wanting to fit in.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Yes, they are hanging with the wrong crowd, but you can’t blame it on the friends – it is your child’s decision to hang with these kids. Many parents tell me that it is the friends – not their child.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">How do I know this? I as once this same parent. I always blamed the other kids. In reality it was my daughter choosing to make these bad choices. Good kids making bad choices is what most of these teens are today.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">So getting parents to understand the resources can sometimes be more difficult than giving them the resources. This is why I think my organization, Parents’ Universal Resource Experts (P.U.R.E.) has been so successful for so many years – I am a parent that has been there and I know firsthand what parents are going through.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">When they talk to me about feeling like they are being held hostage in their own home – I get it. They can tell me things that only another parent that has been here can understand.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">When it comes to asking about resources, I made it my mission, especially after what happened to us, to find out what is available to families in our country. Believe it or not, there are more good programs than there are not so good ones. I just happened to find one of the not so good ones. I believe it was all meant to be – since we have helped literally thousands of families over the past 16 years.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Your interest in this subject was fueled by your own personal experiences. Can you talk a little bit about the frustrations that you went through, and what prompted you to turn your experience into a business?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parenting teens is not easy. In reality I think parents today have a more difficult time than I did 13 years ago simply due to all latest in technology gadgets, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t struggle with my teen that had entitlement issues as many have and still do today. I did. I reached my wit’s end. I tried local therapy, I tried help from my relatives, I tried it all.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I finally got on the Internet, which was not as sophisticated as it is today, and started searching keywords such as Military Schools, Boot Camps, Troubled Teens, etc.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">What I found was the same group of programs kept coming up. I called a toll-free number and within days I was on my way to being scammed into my darkest nightmare that was the beginning of years of hell and otherwise. I can’t say it is all bad since there has been plenty of good, such as <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">my organization</a> that has come from this.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Though my story was dark, it has a bright ending because I took all the negative and decided I could create an organization so that parents like myself, who at their wit’s end and vulnerable (prey for these sales people), wouldn’t be at risk of being duped. Not only was I duped, my daughter suffered the consequences by being placed in a program that was both emotional and physically abusive to her.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parents’ Universal Resource Experts, Inc. (P.U.R.E.), my organization, is about educating parents who are researching schools and programs for their teenagers. My website has helpful hints and questions to ask schools and programs.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Many questions that parents don’t think to ask as they are in a panic mode. I also want parents to remember, their child is not for sale. I caution parents to stay clear of all these marketing arms that scammed me.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I have learned so much from our experiences. I took a few years and traveled to many schools and programs to see how healthy, quality and safe programs operate. I knew that not all programs were bad. The fact is, parents need help – and so do our teens. They are crying out for help and if we don’t give them sound options they may end up in abusive programs.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>My motto is learn from my mistakes and gain from my knowledge.</b></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">What would say is the number one most important thing that parents should consider when they’re evaluating options for their struggling teens?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I always tell parents that residential therapy is their last resort. They have to exhaust all local options first. That would be local therapy, possible out-patient programs, maybe even having the teen live with a relative (it rarely works, but again, exhaust all avenues).</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Once you have determined that residential therapy is the only option it is important to understand that it didn’t take 4-6 weeks to get to this negative behavior and it won’t take 4-6 weeks to get out of this situation. In other words, don’t get fooled into thinking these short-term programs (Boot Camps or Wilderness Programs) will either scare your child straight or punish them into appreciation for what they have at home. It simply won’t.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Wilderness Programs can also be a step that is costly and not always necessary. Many parents don’t realize that the majority of kids that attend Wilderness need to go on to a Therapeutic Boarding School. With this, they now have to start all over again with a new therapist, new schedule, new location, new enrollment and whole new set of fees!</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I always share with parents try to locate a program your teen can start and finish with. Consistency is key to recovery and healing. We rarely, if ever recommend <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/does-my-troubled-teen-need-a-wilderness-program/" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #66081f; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">wilderness programs.</a></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">This is where my organization can truly help educate a parent about the teen-help industry and the big business it is. Parents need to consider at least 6-9-12 months to have any sort of results. They need to realize that any program they select should be licensed and accredited.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I recommend parents look for an ACE Factor. A for Academics. C for Clinical and E for Enrichment programs. I list this all on my website. You can ask the school for a copy of their accreditation. Be sure their therapists are LCSW or psychologists and so many parents neglect to find programs with enrichment programs.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Enrichment programs can be music, sports, animals, fine arts, or any activity that will inspire your teen. Finding a program that will stimulate your child in a positive direction helps build their self-esteem. Many of these kids are lacking this and that is where much of this negative behavior is stemming from. Build a child back up again – not beat them down.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">You have played a big part in bringing attention to the issue of online defamation. How have you seen that impact people, and what are some of the things you do to help when that happens?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">This is something I never signed up for and would never wish on anyone. After winning the landmark case in 2006, I was soon recognized and applauded for being one of the few and first that fought back against Internet defamation.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I was on many national media airwaves and newspapers (online and off). I found I was someone that many people looked up to. I didn’t realize how many people are silently suffering from online defamation/slander. How many people had lost their jobs from it or couldn’t get a job because of it.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">How many people are emotionally paralyzed from this. From housewives to teacher to principals to lawyer to dentists to dog groomers to nurses – I literally received emails from all walks of life and all of them praising me for sharing my story. This is major problem today.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">My book still continues to be a big seller and offers tremendous tips for people for fighting Internet defamation. I think my story hit a nerve with so many people because no one was talking about it. There is a lot of shame attached to it when you are being called the most vicious and vile names.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Many were thought they were alone in their feelings until they heard my story. I couldn’t help but feel like I did when I first created P.U.R.E . – until you walk my shoes, you don’t know what this is like – to be vilified and you can’t defend yourself against the World Wide Web. It seems so hopeless at the time. Your life being destroyed one keystroke and click of a mouse at a time.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">What many people don’t realize, unless you have read my books, is that this lawsuit stems from my experiences with my daughter and the teen help program. When you can’t silence people through litigation – the next best legal lethal weapon is the Internet! It almost destroyed P.U.R.E. as it almost destroyed me. I was fortunate to be able to rise above it – fight it and win it in a jury trial.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">It sounds like there are a lot of things that you find rewarding about your job, but what is the one thing that gives you the most satisfaction?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">The calls I get from parents when they say “I” saved their child’s life. I am literally speechless. I just received another one of these calls last week. It was from a mother that was truly at her wit’s end. She had searched all over the Internet and all over the country for a program for her daughter that was seriously crying out for help. I did what I do – I gave her some resources and now her daughter is happier than ever and has a bright future.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">The mother called to thank me over and over again. She had tears of joy – asked to be a parent reference, as she wants to help other parents too. I am very proud to say I get many of these calls and emails.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Parents have often referred to my website as a Godsend when they have reached their wit’s end – that to me is very rewarding too. I feel like we have done our job. I say we since I do have a fantastic colleague that works with me. The testimonials on my site are only a fraction of what I receive.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">There are a lot of people out there who dream of doing something that will have a positive impact on the lives of others. What advice would you give to them?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">I firmly believe the success of my career is based on my firsthand experiences. People can relate to what I have been through and they know from the moment they start telling me their story that I understand – I have walked their shoes.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">If you have something unique to offer people, something that can help others from going through a difficult time, my advice would be, as hard as it may seem, you have to share this experience. There are so many people that will appreciate your unselfishness and benefit from it – you will be rewarded in so many ways you will never imagine. Initially I wasn’t sure I could do this.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">After all it meant reliving my daughter’s pain and mine. Recognizing how I was duped over and over again – how stupid could I be? That, however, gave me strength and determination to make sure that other parents didn’t go through what we did. Especially if you have a dream that will impact people in a positive way – you owe it to yourself and to the many others that are waiting for you to make it a reality.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">What is a typical day at the office like for you?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Like with many people, answering emails and phone messages is always the first priority of the day. I still speak to parents however I decided to split my time with community service functions. I sit on the Board of Directors for Communities in Schools and on the Committee for Education Foundation of St. Johns County. With these organizations I am bringing my knowledge of educating parents and students about Internet safety, online reputation, as well as speaking about at-risk teens and options. I also spend time Blogging and updating social media such as my Facebook and Twitter pages.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Depending on the day, I always try to write an article or two a week about parenting teens or teens in general. Whether it is about a latest trend or Internet safety, peer pressure, bullying or anything that I feel could benefit parents with raising today’s tweens and teens. So my days are filled with always something targeted around parenting and helping others have a easier time with raising today’s kids.</p><h3 style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?</h3><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Never give up. Don’t stop, even when you are completely burned out. Take a break but don’t let it go. When you are given something you are passionate about it is a gift, don’t take it for granted.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 1em; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">During the time when I was being slammed online and going through the litigation, as many people that have been through lawsuits would know, it is emotionally draining. I wanted to take down my website – shut off my phones and just stop. Whenever I was about to close the organization, a parent would call me and tell me about their child and how my site just gave them so much hope. I can’t count the number of times I was on the verge of closing P.U.R.E. and there will be a call from a parent it was like a nudge telling me…. not yet, there are still more families that need help.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #660505; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding: 0px 0px 10px; text-align: left; text-size-adjust: 100%; vertical-align: baseline;">Thank you so much for your time!</div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-56892216813800780472022-02-02T16:08:00.006-05:002022-02-02T16:09:55.798-05:00How to Help Teens Cope with Homework Stress<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOtmY8pWRgW5pbY1_GRln9a4HJuhFf68BUspTJ5lhsumGEESp5amPYPwmKJNQDFcHaWCfknSzteI2eTK7DfpXn34VIdVAlXQ3T5uHJQu2koVfTuFa_VAwpwVCzXtWG9jc0fnKdztqn4_Igj1oRtkTNiByX7tNkwZi1ymXCVb74Ak90Tf1Mz0zKhRrO=s670" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="559" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOtmY8pWRgW5pbY1_GRln9a4HJuhFf68BUspTJ5lhsumGEESp5amPYPwmKJNQDFcHaWCfknSzteI2eTK7DfpXn34VIdVAlXQ3T5uHJQu2koVfTuFa_VAwpwVCzXtWG9jc0fnKdztqn4_Igj1oRtkTNiByX7tNkwZi1ymXCVb74Ak90Tf1Mz0zKhRrO=s320" width="267" /></a></div><br />Homework can cause stress in many families as kids try to avoid doing it and parents have to nag them to do it. If parents take an active interest in homework, kids tend to be more successful in school.<p></p><p>This doesn’t mean hanging over them – parents can be supportive by teaching their kids study and organization skills, explaining difficult problems, or even encouraging them to take breaks.</p><p><strong>Here are some strategies that can help your family to avoid homework hassles.</strong></p><h3>Writing tasks</h3><p>Writing is a very important life skill and developing it requires practice and patience. Having a set time for homework writing tasks is always best. Some kids will work best after dinner, while others will prefer to get homework done in the afternoon after a snack and some time to relax.</p><p>Create a proper writing zone away from all distractions so your child can fully focus on the writing task at hand. The writing zone can also include a reading nook. Regular reading is a stepping stone to stronger writing skills, so read to younger children and encourage older children to read.</p><p>Teach your child how to <a href="https://writerslife.org/how-to-prioritize-your-writing/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">prioritize writing tasks</a> and break them down into manageable chunks. Long stints of writing can be tiring and it also helps to schedule regular breaks.</p><p>Many games for all ages can help to improve spelling and enhance vocabulary. This can make improving writing skills fun. Show lots of interest in what your child is writing and celebrate when they achieve well in a written school assignment. Practicing writing and playing some fun writing games will go a long way to improving a child’s writing skills and making writing tasks more enjoyable.</p><h3>Math tasks</h3><p>Keeping distractions to a minimum is important when kids are doing math tasks. This means no phone calls, no TV and no loud music. Your kids won’t learn if you do the work for them as they need to learn from their mistakes. While working out a math problem, ask your child to think out loud and don’t just come up with an explanation of how to solve a problem. Understanding your child’s thought processes can help you to nudge them in the<br />right direction.</p><p>Doing homework doesn’t just mean getting the right answers – it’s all about learning certain skills and processes. Many students struggle when they get to college to study, especially if they do subjects where math is important and they have gaps in their math knowledge. Making use of <a href="https://plainmath.net/post-secondary/statistics-and-probability/upper-level-probability" rel="noopener" target="_blank">college probability questions and answers</a> on PlainMath can help them to improve their math skills.</p><p>Clear and accessible examples in what is basically a free math encyclopedia can enrich their educational experience. The collection of unsolved math problems and solutions helps students to learn and understand. Improving their math skills with online resources can help students in many areas of further education.</p><h3>Art tasks</h3><p>You must have a space in your home where your child can do art tasks without having to worry about messing. Making messes is very often a part of the creative process. In the warm weather, doing art tasks outside is a good idea.</p><p>Collect materials kids can use in their art tasks such as old calendars, pieces of paper, old magazines, glitter etc. Talk to your child during the creative process about what they are trying to express. Look for any progress and always be encouraging.</p><p>Creating art is an important part of <a href="https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_art_of_creating_why_art_is_important_for_early_childhood_development" rel="noopener" target="_blank">early childhood development</a> so you need to allow your kid time for it. It is not just entertaining but educational too. Giving kids the freedom to use different materials in an unstructured way allows them to explore and experiment. Art tasks allow them to practice a whole range of skills that are useful for life and for learning, such as their fine motor skills and math skills.</p><p>Grasping chalks, pencils, paintbrushes and crayons helps to develop the fine motor muscles they need to write, do up buttons and other tasks. When creating art, they begin to understand concepts like shapes, sizes, counting, comparisons, and spatial reasoning.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Homework doesn’t always have to be dreaded and avoided. It can be a bonding activity for parents and children and there are various strategies that will help to reduce <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/tips-helping-teens-homework/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Tips for Helping Teens With Homework">homework </a>stress and make it more enjoyable. Having a dedicated area and a specific time for doing homework is important. Parents must not do homework for their children but encourage them to do it themselves and assist where they can or they won’t learn.</p><h3>Author’s Bio</h3><p>Joshua Robinson knows how to fascinate his audience with his outstanding essay writing and editing work. He started his career as a blogger and then slowly transitioned to academic writing and has since then impressed everyone with his absolutely great essays and research writing and also continued with blogging fabulously.</p></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-52428547689389808082021-12-20T09:43:00.000-05:002021-12-20T09:43:50.523-05:00Video Games and Students: Playing with Violence<div class="separator"><h3 style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"> The Teen Gaming Addiction and Getting Help</h3></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgs0gNdhrdBc_010eik5uwPhGLDHxcEjkBfZsrm5lQgxuSHoQhyl7QjatJNF3Nz6exsgSZmVIyFvOCsvtD46yxgfPIPfAejXRYc5TJ1QUZ9cTOxqwjd-nV8P0A7ckf8KIO1lVnnfJNMDClTRWfCOph2EV6flVM_1QC9IoH8lVAiJ6LNV6AIW6AKZnKU=s740" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="740" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgs0gNdhrdBc_010eik5uwPhGLDHxcEjkBfZsrm5lQgxuSHoQhyl7QjatJNF3Nz6exsgSZmVIyFvOCsvtD46yxgfPIPfAejXRYc5TJ1QUZ9cTOxqwjd-nV8P0A7ckf8KIO1lVnnfJNMDClTRWfCOph2EV6flVM_1QC9IoH8lVAiJ6LNV6AIW6AKZnKU=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Video games have become famous with people of all ages engaging in them. They are also a massive part of the economy. Video gaming is now a multi-billion-dollar industry churning in more money than movies and DVDs. <p></p><p>Since everyone is willing to pay for video games, the industry has seen a remarkable improvement with realistic and sophisticated features added to the games. </p><p>Players can connect to the internet while playing and interact with each other. The impact of video games has been dissected and discussed by many. But how are they affecting students – especially college students? Let’s find out.</p><h3>The Good Side of Video Games for Teens</h3><p>With all the noise about the effects of video games on children – school-going children – there are those who argue the positive side of things. It may not be great to have a student sitting on a computer playing games all day, but it is great for a student to play some games sometimes. </p><h4>Here are some advantages;</h4><p>1. <strong>More students can develop an interest in STEM</strong></p><p>The STEM workforce of the future needs enthusiastic individuals who will continue to revolutionize it. Many students often chicken out of science, technology, engineering, and math because introductory courses like calculus are so challenging. Calculus games have been developed to help students learn by gaming. Learning games are the new way of convincing students to stay in STEM.</p><p>2. <strong>Video games can help with experiential learning</strong></p><p>Learning in the 21st century is taking on a new trajectory with students encouraged to learn as they do. In order to learn creative problem-solving, games have been developed to help students with critical thinking. For example, students can learn to solve problems with games like DragonBox Algebra. </p><p>3. <strong>Video Games encourage learning from failure</strong></p><p>It’s never a good video game if it’s too easy to play. Video games are designed in such a way that it’s safe to fail. Students can easily learn from their failures while playing video games. Some games like Burnout Paradise even make failing in video games seem like fun – the more you fail, the more points you earn.</p><p>4. <strong>Students can stay engaged in the classroom</strong></p><p>The best way to make sure that students internalize everything they learn is to make the learning engaging. The more engaged they are, the more they are likely to take in. Educational games have been designed to improve engagement and motivation for students to stay more focused on tasks.</p><h3>The Negative Side of Video Games</h3><p>Some adverse effects of these games include students being exposed to violence – killing people and animals, <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/15-signs-of-teen-drug-use/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="15 Signs of Teen Drug Use">using drugs</a>, and foul language and obscene gestures. Some negative effects of video games include;</p><p>1. <strong>Students find less time to learn</strong></p><p>Studies have shown that students who play video games excessively spend less time learning. This leads to poor performance in class and poor grades eventually. Even students with the potential to become better may slack in their education when exposed to excessive video game playing.</p><p>2. <strong>Poor social skills</strong></p><p>Students who are overly involved in video games may have difficulty controlling the amount of time they spend on the screen. This reduces the amount of time they engage with teachers and other students. Poor social skills can lead to negative behavior in students. For those involved in creating <a href="https://samplius.com/free-essay-examples/behavior/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">behavior essays for students to write</a>, this is something they often encounter. Negative behavior affects the overall performance of any student and sometimes even leads to some students leaving school.</p><p>3. <strong>Less reading </strong></p><p>When students spend excessive time playing video games, it cuts into their reading time. This may lead to poor performance in class and may even encourage cheating. Some students would rather cheat than spend time reading for tests.</p><p>4. <strong>Less exercise and becoming overweight</strong></p><p>This is a typical symptom with most gamers. Since some video games can be very addictive, students will spend most time sitting and playing. Such students often consume junk food as they continue to play, sometimes late into the night.</p><p>5. <strong>Some develop aggressive thoughts and behaviors</strong></p><p>Due to the content in the video games, some students may develop cynical behavior and express them towards other students. Although there hasn’t been enough research to link bad behavior to video games, some students find it hard not to copy what they see in these video games.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Video games have become a huge part of people’s lives. With many more people becoming engaged in them, the industry will only grow further. The impact of video games on students is clear to see. While there are positive things to pick from video games, the <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/signs-of-teen-internet-addiction/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Signs of Teen Internet Addiction">negative side</a> of things has to be observed carefully as well. </p><p>Check out our featured book, <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/the-gaming-overload-workbook-a-teens-guide-to-balancing-screen-time-video-games-and-real-life/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="The Gaming Overload Workbook: A Teen’s Guide to Balancing Screen Time, Video Games, and Real Life">The Gaming Overload Workbook</a>.</p><p><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> if you feel your teen is struggling with gaming addiction and you have exhausted your local resources.</p><h6>Author Bio: <span style="font-weight: 400;">Joshua Robinson is a technology freelance writer. He has written for top tech magazines. He has also contributed to several technology books on the impact of video games on society. He loves reading and playing tennis.</span></h6><h6><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ox8sQIAy9m0" width="320" youtube-src-id="ox8sQIAy9m0"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></h6>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-13903029456973029752021-06-16T08:50:00.002-04:002021-06-16T08:50:39.663-04:00The Effect of Screen Time On Teens Mental Health <p><b> How will Screen Time Effect Your Teen's Mental Health?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFnzMiGQBARdP92NjjnBix5usE6igbXtqL9KLYugX87ZJDbJz7jXI_QJO73yN2XcpmVY0ML_TUWl80Y_0h-CQHPvzyF4BqRD6gfmSRqQgZ_WgcuAmWvLT-Q9cpGtlmDmo160rnNhZXY4/s741/UnSplashTeenScreentime.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="741" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFnzMiGQBARdP92NjjnBix5usE6igbXtqL9KLYugX87ZJDbJz7jXI_QJO73yN2XcpmVY0ML_TUWl80Y_0h-CQHPvzyF4BqRD6gfmSRqQgZ_WgcuAmWvLT-Q9cpGtlmDmo160rnNhZXY4/s320/UnSplashTeenScreentime.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Teenagers today could probably be known as the
“iPhone generation”. They never knew a world without technology at their
fingertips, and they’ve grown up with screens and digital devices at every
turn. So, smartphones, tablets, and computer screens are part of everyday life
for most teenagers. <o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>But, is that a good thing?</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>Parents and scientists alike have shown great
interest in the effects of screen time on a teenager’s health. Some studies
have argued that too much of it can cause physical health issues. On the other hand, many teens use technology
as a way to stay connected. Taking it away could impact their mental health.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>So, what’s the answer? As a parent, that’s up
to you. But, it’s important to know what screen time can really do to your teen
– especially when it comes to their mental health.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN">Common Mental Health Concerns</span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">It’s estimated that teenagers spend <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/warnings-signs-of-teen-internet-addiction/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">over seven hours looking at their phones</span></a> each
day. Whether they’re scrolling through Instagram, creating TikToks, or chatting
on WhatsApp, it’s easy for teenagers to get lost in the social aspect of being
on their phones. Of course, phones and tablets are also used for entertainment,
like watching videos and playing games. The options are endless, which makes it
easy to waste hours without really thinking about it.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">That connection can lead to things like peer
pressure, bullying, or even just the desire to “fit in” on different social
media platforms. Your teen might feel as though they have to constantly be
plugged in just to keep up with their friends.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Unfortunately, that can take a toll on their
mental health. One study found that teens who spend at least three or four
hours a day looking at a screen have <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/11/14/563767149/increased-hours-online-correlate-with-an-uptick-in-teen-depression-suicidal-thou"><span style="color: #1155cc;">an increased risk of depression</span></a>, thoughts of
self-harm, and even suicide. Another study found that young people who spend at
least seven hours in front of a screen each day are more likely to officially
be <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/is-your-struggling-with-depression-anxiety-or-sadness/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">diagnosed with depression or anxiety</span></a>. It also
found that the less screen time a teen had, the better their overall wellbeing.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>The mental health issues associated with too
much screen time can lead to bigger problems. Depression and anxiety can cause
teenagers to: </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Become fatigued<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Have trouble concentrating<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Isolating themselves<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Losing interest in things they
love<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Have lower test scores<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>It can be difficult to <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/understanding-teen-depression/"><span style="color: #1155cc;">understand teen depression</span></a>. But, paying
attention to these warning signs can alert you that something isn’t right. If
you know that your teen spends most of their time in front of a screen, it
won’t be hard to connect the dots and find out where their problems are
stemming from.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN">Don’t Overlook the Physical
Issues</span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">In addition to mental health concerns,
spending too much time in front of screens can lead to physical problems, too.
For starters, starting at a screen all day can wreak havoc on your eyes. When a
teenager spends too long looking at a screen, they can strain their eyes
because the constant movement makes it harder to focus. The light from the
screen can also cause the eyes to become tired and lead to vision issues. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN">Some
of the common signs include:</span> </b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Squinting<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Head tilting<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Poor hand-eye coordination<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Rubbing their eyes<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">●<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN">Headaches<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span>In addition to damaging the eyes, staring at a
digital device all day can cause back and neck problems. It can even lead to
poor sleep quality, which could leave your teen feeling tired and make them
more prone to getting sick or injured. While feelings of depression and anxiety
are important to recognize, don’t ignore the physical problems your teen could
have to deal with because of their phones or tablets, either.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN">How to Talk to Your Teen About
Screen Time</span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">As a parent of a teenager, you probably
already know it’s not always easy to talk to them – especially about things
they don’t want to give up. But, knowing how screen time can impact them, it’s
important to set boundaries. That’s especially true if your teen is spending
most of their time at home. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Create a schedule that works for everyone,
allowing them to use their electronic devices during certain hours of the day
and only for a set amount of time. You might get some pushback at first. But,
creating a schedule is a great way to be fair. Eventually, your teen will look
forward to those times when they have their devices and will know how to handle
it when each time is over.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To promote less screen time, <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/201808/cutting-our-device-distractions-in-the-world-screens" target="_blank">encourage yourteen to try other things</a>. What are their other interests and hobbies? Or,
what’s something you think would love if they tried it? If they have a passion
for art, encourage them to create their own art. Do they love music? Suggest
an instrument. Maybe they have gotten into running or strength training. Why
not encourage a sport? When your teen really discovers their passion, they’ll
be less enamored with their screens. As a result, they can be mentally and
physically healthier, and you can take comfort in knowing they aren’t depending
on a digital device to find contentment.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ox8sQIAy9m0" width="320" youtube-src-id="ox8sQIAy9m0"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-30120730208529668062021-03-31T09:52:00.002-04:002021-04-13T08:43:57.510-04:00Summer Camp for Teen Digital Addiction<h2>Summer Camps to Help Digital Addiction</h2>
<h3>Will a therapeutic summer camp help your teen's digital addiction?</h3>
<img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-10642" height="214" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/BigstockDefiantGirl-300x201.jpg" width="320" /><div><br /></div><div>Many teens today have been experiencing <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-depression-warning-signs/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Teen Depression Warning Signs">depression</a>, anxiety, under-performing in school if not completely failing classes -- we've even witnessed a rise in <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-truancy/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Teen Truancy">truancy</a> and youth that were once excelling that are now barely passing. </div><div><br /></div><div> <strong>Internet and cellphone addiction has been a major contributing factor to young people's mental wellness.</strong>
<strong>This can lead to extreme<em> defiance, rage and explosive behavior.</em></strong></div><div><b style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></b></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">How can summer options help:</h3><div>
There are therapeutic summer programs that are designed to give families a good foundation of what they are facing with their child’s behavior. </div><div><br /></div><div>It can offer immediate support and typically continues with a Psychiatric Evaluation with medication recommendations (if needed); an Educational Plan with specific goals and course recommendations (residents will have the option to recover essential grade credits, prepare for the SAT’s, gain organizational skills, as well); and a wellness plan, with goals for health and fitness, in addition to nutritional recommendations. </div><div><br /></div><div> This is also a time for <strong>digital detox</strong> as well as developing a <em>healthy relationship</em> with technology and building social skills with people in real life. </div><div><br /></div><div> Summer camps dealing with teen defiance help young people develop coping skills through anger and stress management classes as well as positive peer influence and in many instances - animal assisted therapy.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b style="font-size: 12pt;">Some of the benefits can be the following:</b></div><div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"></p><ul><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Grade recovery<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Learning coping skills<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Anger and stress management<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Peer relationships offline<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">SAT prep classes<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Self-esteem building (helps them make better choices)<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Overall healthy relationship with their devices</span></li></ul><p></p></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"> Why use a therapeutic summer camp?</h3>
<img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8232" height="201" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BigDogTherapy-300x201.jpg" width="300" /></div><div><br /></div><div>In some situations maybe your teen only needs a <em>summer</em> <em>boost</em>, depending on the issues they are facing.
Some parents feel more comfortable committing to a shorter version of a therapeutic program rather than jumping into a full 6-9-12 month school. It can give them an opportunity to evaluate the program, therapists and staff. </div><div><br /></div><div>They are unsure if their teen needs a full <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/does-my-teen-need-a-therapeutic-boarding-school/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Does My Teen Need A Therapeutic Boarding School">therapeutic boarding school</a> just yet.
The positive side of therapeutic summer programs are that they are part of long-term programs so your child doesn’t have to switch facilities if you determine they need longer care. </div><div><br /></div><div>This can also be helpful if your child successfully completes the summer session, however months later starts to stumble. Therapeutic schools offer open enrollment all year round so they would be able to be there to assist you.
<h3>Why are therapeutic summer camps rarely the answer but can be helpful?</h3>
<img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-11388" height="200" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/BigstockFrustratedTEen-300x200.jpg" width="300" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Again, this depends on the teenager. If your teen is only struggling academically, the summer grade recovery could be the perfect answer for you. However if you've been battling <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-rebellion-and-teen-defiance/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Teen Rebellion and Teen Defiance">defiance</a>, anger, rage, depression and other mental health concerns you might have a longer road in front of you. </div><div><br /></div><div> It didn’t take 4-6 weeks for your child to get to where they are today, it’s not going to take 4-6 weeks for them to change this behavior.
Since 2001 we have been helping and educating families from all over the country. </div><div><br /></div><div>We rarely hear from families where a summer program has been successful for <strong>long-lasting results</strong> in behavioral changes. </div><div><br /></div><div>However in some situations, a solid 60-90 day program has been exactly what a student needed to get them back on the right path academically or at least give the family a sense of direction and a balanced home life.
<h3>What do therapeutic summer camps typically cost?</h3>
<img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-6949" height="1" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/PixabayMoney.jpg" width="1" /><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-6950" height="212" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/PixabayMoney-1-300x212.jpg" width="300" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Therapeutic summer camps that have quality credential therapists, accredited educational team and enrichment programs will start at about $7000 a month and up. In some cases, <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/financial-options/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Financial Options">PPO insurance</a> may cover a portion of your clinical component of the program. </div><div><br /></div><div>This tuition is competitive if not <strong>less</strong> than wilderness programs that rarely offer an educational component or enrichment programs. </div><div><br /></div><div>In conclusion, if you’ve been struggling with your teen for over a year and have exhausted your local resources (therapy, out-patient, in-patient, maybe sent them to live with a relative) – and feel like you’re living like a hostage in your own home – or possibly fear for your child’s life, it might be time to consider residential therapy.
Each child and family is different. </div><div><br /></div><div>For many teens, in order to have long-lasting changes, it usually will take 6-9-12 months. However, we completely understand some families want to start with a summer option to ‘<em>dip their toes in the water</em>.’ </div><div><br /></div><div>Learn more about a <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/therapeutic-boarding-school/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">therapeutic boarding school</a> and <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/residential-treatment-center/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">residential treatment center</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Contact us</a> for more information. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ox8sQIAy9m0" width="320" youtube-src-id="ox8sQIAy9m0"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-65315748361411626822021-03-06T09:08:00.001-05:002021-03-06T09:08:06.152-05:00Entitled Teenagers The Spoiled Brat Generation<h2>Entitled Teenagers: The Spoiled Brat Generation</h2>
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqoqAaP1mM__pdio3uzg4O_rtVFNvgy4fRNUAK4lKEJTnN5HiIKtzzFb0z8VXV2aBLRr2fSfiruztyUcLI3xyWLVOsNQpoch87EdGLRP5Q3oP6p-wpzB6KUop9Hqy4geBuRFVUAp0gu0/s707/PixabayTeenMoney.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="430" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixqoqAaP1mM__pdio3uzg4O_rtVFNvgy4fRNUAK4lKEJTnN5HiIKtzzFb0z8VXV2aBLRr2fSfiruztyUcLI3xyWLVOsNQpoch87EdGLRP5Q3oP6p-wpzB6KUop9Hqy4geBuRFVUAp0gu0/s320/PixabayTeenMoney.JPG" /></a></div><br />The current generation of teenagers feel like the world owes them everything and parents exist to please and meet their teenagers every desire and whim. </div><div><br /></div><div>These <strong>entitled teenagers</strong> are resistant to parental authority, demanding, and often unable to manage failure or disappointment.
The very process of adolescence means teens are always prone to adopt an <strong>entitled view</strong> of the world. </div><div><br /></div><div>Are you frustrated with your teenager’s attitude? Is it all demands and no appreciation? If you’re wondering<strong> how to deal with an entitled teenager</strong>, you’re not alone! </div><div><br /></div><div>Despite the years of teaching them how to say thank you, you can still end up battling entitlement. Even so, don’t give up hope! </div><div><br /></div><div>It’s not too late to turn around an <strong>ungrateful</strong> teenager.
<h3>5 Signs Your Teen is Entitled:</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>They can’t handle being told “no.”</strong> They melt down, pout, or put a battle every time you turn down a request. An immediate “yes” is the only way to avoid a battle.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>They show no signs of sincere gratitude.</strong> Why should they be grateful for what they believe they are “<em>owed</em>”? You’re lucky to hear a forced “thanks.”</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>They have a long list of never-ending demands.</strong> If you don’t expect to walk through a store without getting barraged with demands for nearly everything you walk by, you probably have an entitled teenager.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>They’ve got a “no can do” attitude. </strong>Make their own sandwich themselves? Pick up their room? It’s asking too much.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>They’re constantly comparing. </strong> And it’s nearly always “not fair.” They’re not afraid to ask for the best and the first.</li>
</ul>
If three or more of these sound like your kid, you are dealing an <strong>entitled teenager</strong>.
Being entitled will not serve them or you well, so the next question is…
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><span id="How_Do_You_Change_Entitled_Behavior">How Do You Change Entitled Behavior?</span></h3>
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlSIePPiVA8pqkpWkDDDKsGgBcjc40456lLtr479vAfORhaAlPHbZB4H-lamWKj5AxQRkEMfuqXWTDDu4HuPNWsOSnBc3NOKFKF6uQksinVSw4KeWSyARIcn2pD0Z9E8c7Z7bA0PqONs/s1343/BigstockDefiantGirl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlSIePPiVA8pqkpWkDDDKsGgBcjc40456lLtr479vAfORhaAlPHbZB4H-lamWKj5AxQRkEMfuqXWTDDu4HuPNWsOSnBc3NOKFKF6uQksinVSw4KeWSyARIcn2pD0Z9E8c7Z7bA0PqONs/s320/BigstockDefiantGirl.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The very first step towards successfully fighting entitlement is looking into what may be driving the behavior.
Usually there is some misinformation or false beliefs driving the feelings that are feeding the entitled attitudes and behaviors. </div><div><br /></div><div> In addition, teenagers are developmentally inclined to be more wrapped up in self.
As far as false beliefs, it could be that they have bought into the message that their value is based on what they own and how they look. </div><div><br /></div><div> If your sense of personal worth is on the line, non-essentials can start to look like essentials. Those $100 jeans aren’t just expensive stuff, getting them becomes tied to how loved and lovable you believe you are. </div><div><br /></div><div>Feeling unequipped or unable to get what you want or need can drive entitled behavior. If you think that the only way you can get those jeans is to demand them, that’s what you’re going to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>Developmentally, the science shows that teenage brains begin to revolve more intensely around self as they begin preparing for independence. </div><div><br /></div><div>Consequently, teens need extra help during this time to think about others and empathize. Chances are that they are not thinking about how much work or money someone else spent to give them something.
<h3><span id="Battling_Entitlement">Battling Entitlement</span></h3>
It seems like entitlement is all around us, especially among teenagers. You can’t be complacent if you want your teen to break free from entitlement. It requires effort and intention.
<h3><span id="Teach_Your_Teen_Gratitude">Teach Your Teen Gratitude</span></h3>
The number one enemy of entitlement is gratitude. Gratitude isn’t just being thankful or appreciative, but also recognizing the effort of the giver. Explicitly teaching your self-focused teen how to be grateful will help them develop gratitude more quickly and fully.
<ol>
<li><b>Identify a gift when it comes</b>. This means being able to tell the difference between what’s owed, what’s earned, and what’s given as an act of kindness. If you didn’t earn it and no one owes you, it’s a gift.</li>
<li><b>Appreciate what you have</b>. This means considering the worth & value of what was given.</li>
<li><b>Recognize the kindness of the giver</b>. Someone had to work and pay and be thoughtful of the recipient – when giving the gift.</li>
</ol>
<h3><span id="Fight_Comparison">Fight Comparison</span></h3>
-Pay the extra $2 a month for commercial free Hulu. </div><div>-Get rid of magazines. </div><div>-Set time limits or ditch social media all together. </div><div><br /></div><div> Help them interpret what they’re seeing. Remind them that all of these things are meant to sell, even their friend on social media is selling something – “I’ve got it all together” or “You should admire me.” These are all half-stories at best, but more often outright lies. </div><div><br /></div><div> Never compare your teen to others. Conversely, do remind your teen that their value is in who they are and not in what they have or how they compare to someone else.
<h6>Source: Finally Family Homes</h6>
<h3>Are you struggling with an entitled teenager?</h3>
-At your wit's end? </div><div>-Do you feel like you're a <strong>hostage in your home</strong>? </div><div>-Is your <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/disrespectful-rebellious-and-defiant-teens/" title="Disrespectful, Rebellious and Defiant Teens">teen defiant</a> when they don't get their own way? </div><div>-Do they go into a <strong>rage</strong> when you remove their devices?
-Have you tried talking to them and they completely turn you off?
-Have you tried therapy? They shut-down, or won't engage. </div><div>-Are they refusing to go to school? Skipping classes. </div><div>-Smart teen, now failing or underachieving? </div><div>-Exhausted your local resources?</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> for more information on residential therapy. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BsBQ3Me-7yQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="BsBQ3Me-7yQ"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-20931328980883573472021-02-16T09:48:00.000-05:002021-02-16T09:48:01.154-05:00Wood Creek Academy Updated<p> <b>UPDATE - February 21, 2021</b></p><b><br /></b><b>Wood Creek Academy</b><br /><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b>Wood Creek Academy</b> sent me a Cease and Desist letter to remove this blog.... so I will edit it - since they believe it was defamatory. The letter is below.<br /><br />I can't believe it's been over <a href="http://aparentstruestory.com/" target="_blank">17 years since my nightmare</a> with WWASPS. WWWASP as officially disbanded now.<br /><br />Sadly I still receive emails (in 2021) from students struggling to overcome the emotional trauma they endured during their time at a WWASPS facility, as well as many simply looking for help in seeking academic credits.<br /><br />Neither which I can help them with, however it never ceases to amaze me that there are so many victims that have been effected by these people.<br /><br />The blessing is that many parents are doing their due diligence and learning how to educate themselves before placing their child into a residential therapy school or program. <div><br /></div><div>They are asking the right questions, and digging deeper into the past of the program. If your gut is twisting - it's time to move on to another program.</div><div><br /></div><div>What is really troubling me too, is all the "placement specialists" that are popping up, promising you they can place your child into a program. Please note, this is exactly what happened to me over two decades ago. It is about buyer beware. </div><div><br /></div><div>I believe in getting our teen's help -- but it's about being an educated parent. There are more good program than there are deceitful ones. Do your homework.<br /><br /><b>Wood Creek Academy sent a CEASE and DESIST of this blog. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Read below. Of course they're not part of any corporation such as WWASPS, they have disbanded. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>But who does run Wood Creek? For some reason I can't locate the owners - directors - staff, etc..... </b><br /><br />Once you find out who they, you can use the Internet to determine if they were ever related to former programs -- the web is full of information. </div><div><br /></div><div>Again, of course they are not WWASP or Spring Creek Lodge - are they the former owners? I don't know. Ask. Research. If you are sending your kids - just ask.<br /><br />Just a side story which doesn't have anything to do with Wood Creek but is interesting - Remember when Midwest Academy swore up and down they weren't WWASP related:</div><div><br /><strong><a href="http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/editorials/2016/02/07/who-is-behind-midwest-academy/79867582/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Midwest Academy</a>, IA - 2/13/16 <a href="http://heavy.com/news/2016/02/midwest-academy-keokuk-iowa-wwasp-robert-lichfield-world-wide-assocation-of-specialty-schools-lawsuit-student-abuse/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">News Alert</a> on Midwest Academy (<a href="http://nypost.com/2016/02/13/ex-students-say-boarding-school-tortured-them-in-isolation/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">CLOSED-Alleged torture and abuse</a>)</strong></div><div><b><br /></b>Update: <a href="http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2016/04/16/midwest-founder-helped-create-troubled-teens-industry/82992202/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Midwest Academy Founder Confirmed WWASPS</a> 4/16/16 (This is important since many of their sales representatives, as well as the program itself, allegedly will tell parents they weren't WWASPS - this seems to be a common trend - deny, deny until you're caught.) Again - this is not about Wood Creek.<br /><br /><b>So why a letter from Wood Creek Lawyers?</b><br /><br />Why are they so nervous about this? Is it the same property? <u>They say no</u>. Is the same owners? Why won't they list the owners? The marketing people? Are they the same? Just asking.... If you are leaving your child there - don't you want to know?<br /><br />In this letter (below) - dated August 17, 2017 - it says Cynthia Reichenbach called me three times. Unfortunately - I don't have any record of those calls - but I just tried calling her (August 21, 2017) - and she wasn't in so I spoke with Samantha. She confirmed Wood Creek is licensed - but no owners are listed - so strangely we can't determine who these people ARE. This is typical. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you look at Wood Creek's Website - no names are listed under "Who We Are" either.... Why?<br /><br />I won a major case for <a href="http://www.googlebombbook.com/" target="_blank">Internet Defamation</a>, believe it or not, WWASP was twisted into this one. The truth is your defense. They are telling me I am defaming them? Where?<br /><br />I'm <b>not </b>saying that Wood Creek <b>is</b> WWASP or it's associated with it. I'm saying just do your homework. Place your kid there if you're comfortable with it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Look up the former owners of <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2003/09/06/us/program-to-help-youths-has-troubles-of-its-own.html?mcubz=3" target="_blank">Spring Creek Lodge</a> (and employees - look at the <b>marketing arms</b>) see what it says to you.... you don't need me to tell you what to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>Again, if you're comfortable - place your child there. I would never tell anyone any different. Parents are free to do what they want with their children.<br /><br />Here's the letter I received from them. If they had nothing to hide - why try scare me off?<br /><br />Check out my book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/149264899X/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=helpyourteens-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=149264899X&linkId=8d9834f3d695575c9d37cb707d986706" target="_blank">Shame Nation: The Global Epidemic of Online Hate</a>. Hate and incivility is on the rise, especially online. (Yes, a shameless plug now of my own book).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpJBzfvuaJ8wJsT8UmHA_VW-aJFOLQUpwEr3QVAeH3G7RUPPI7kSM5dbyYf-_Feyt18zGiZ38xBQiIkwNYP0gjgh0DhOWOjggwF9-pnXcJe78AFSnnFyMP4bBfliszhIIuIxM7Mok5Kg/s1600/ceaseDesistWoodCreek1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpJBzfvuaJ8wJsT8UmHA_VW-aJFOLQUpwEr3QVAeH3G7RUPPI7kSM5dbyYf-_Feyt18zGiZ38xBQiIkwNYP0gjgh0DhOWOjggwF9-pnXcJe78AFSnnFyMP4bBfliszhIIuIxM7Mok5Kg/s320/ceaseDesistWoodCreek1.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDXZczcXMK8xQYieXCcmgE2nmojzAQsgxQKs0Q0pOe0sO-lUeX9W6XIADRs4fTh0VoFJ1N8QN15OWS24IlqUWitAGCoNKA7nMIdw8ZcSSj1qhOlyj8S0z8oCMHcAaUigZFjy5zoY0OCk/s1600/ceaseDesistWoodCreek2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDXZczcXMK8xQYieXCcmgE2nmojzAQsgxQKs0Q0pOe0sO-lUeX9W6XIADRs4fTh0VoFJ1N8QN15OWS24IlqUWitAGCoNKA7nMIdw8ZcSSj1qhOlyj8S0z8oCMHcAaUigZFjy5zoY0OCk/s320/ceaseDesistWoodCreek2.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-42897299658193725202021-02-09T06:07:00.002-05:002021-02-09T06:07:52.562-05:00Is My Teen Using Drugs?
<h2>Teen Drug Use</h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">How do I know if my teen is using drugs?<br />In today's society, kids have access to many different substances that can be addictive and damaging.</h4>
<strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Wh2mHAwfmJkCxk6Eb-ojAKOvMFSEsJtVi2Dg7mnqfDVQvzMk0IvQY5wz2jAmr4hMUMtCxGvFSQinw0pglmI6GJ9ehDCbaaVL2tjUSdn6quB_8CyMe_UOseM2KoEq6DVC2Z96EwhQ66M/s653/PexelPills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="653" data-original-width="417" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Wh2mHAwfmJkCxk6Eb-ojAKOvMFSEsJtVi2Dg7mnqfDVQvzMk0IvQY5wz2jAmr4hMUMtCxGvFSQinw0pglmI6GJ9ehDCbaaVL2tjUSdn6quB_8CyMe_UOseM2KoEq6DVC2Z96EwhQ66M/s320/PexelPills.jpg" /></a></div><br />Drug testing is helpful, but not always accurate.</strong> <div><br /></div><div><strong>Teen substance abuse can escalate to addiction.</strong> <div><br /></div><div>P.U.R.E.™ receives many phone calls from parents who say that their child is only smoking pot. Unfortunately in most cases, marijuana can lead to more <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/marijuana-pills-to-heroin-teen-drug-use/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">severe drugs</a> and, with the exception of a few states, it is an illegal drug. <div><br /></div><div>Smoking marijuana is damaging to the child's body, brain, and behavior.
Even though marijuana is not considered a narcotic, teens may become hooked. Many teens who are on prescribed medications such as Ritalin, <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/adhd-and-add-teens-the-abuse-of-adderall/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adderall</a>, Strattera, Concerta, Zoloft, Prozac and other prescription drugs - are more at risk when mixing these medications with street drugs. </div><div><br /></div><div> It is critical you speak with your child about this and learn all the side effects. Educating your child on potential harms may help them to understand the dangers involved in mixing prescription drugs with street drugs. Awareness is the first step to understanding. </div><div><br /></div><div> Alcohol is not any different with today's teens. Like adults, some teens use the substances to escape their problems; however, they don't realize that it is not an escape but rather a deep dark hole. Some teens use substances to "fit in" with the rest of their peers-- <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-peer-pressure/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Teen Peer Pressure">teen peer pressure</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div> This is when a child really needs to know that they don't need to "fit in" if it means hurting themselves. Using drugs and alcohol is harmful, especially when combined with prescribed medication. </div><div><br /></div><div>The combination can bring out the worse in a person.
<a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/tips-for-starting-a-conversation-with-your-teenager/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Communicating with your teen</a>, as difficult as it can be, is one of the best tools we have. Even if you think they are not listening, we hope eventually they will hear you.
If your teen is experimenting with alcohol or drugs, please step in and get proper help through local resources. </div><div><br /></div><div>If it has extended into an <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/heroin-what-parents-dont-talk-about/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">addiction</a>, it is probably time for residential placement.
If you feel your child is only experimenting, it is wise to start precautions early. An informed parent is an educated parent. </div><div><br /></div><div>This can be your life jacket when and if you need the proper intervention. Always be prepared; it can save you from rash decisions later.
For a teen who is just starting to experiment with substance use or starting to become difficult, a solid short term self growth program may be very beneficial. Keep in mind, however, that if this behavior has been escalating over a length of time, the short term program may only serve as a temporary band-aid. </div><div><br /></div><div><strong>Drugs and alcohol</strong> usage is definitely a sign that your child needs help. Teen drug addiction and teen drinking are serious problems in today's society; if you suspect your child is using substances, especially if they are on <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/teens-sharing-prescription-drugs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">prescribed medications</a>, start seeking local help. If the local resources become exhausted and you are still experiencing difficulties, it may be time for the next step; a <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/does-my-teen-need-residential-therapy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">therapeutic boarding school</a> or residential treatment center. </div><div><br /></div><div> Read more about the <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/15-warning-signs-of-teen-drug-use/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="15 Warning Signs of Teen Drug Use">15 warning signs that your teen is using drugs</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div> P.U.R.E.™ invites you to fill out a <a href="http://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">free consultation form</a> for more information on finding the appropriate help for your teen. </div></div></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-59110146444850932282021-01-07T08:14:00.008-05:002021-01-07T08:17:32.470-05:00What Are Warning Signs My Teen is Suffering with Depression?<p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiVRNYxJs-Bo1X-_o9jd_vghnkXCSAYdo7wnEq0F1WPMeTPjVZgYsqMirwlV8r3UVJLjLR_KF5utQQ1OJRgiIaq5JGdw7cLsiT1GOKdrwhyphenhyphenyug88yVxZqzDy_isgPMjqk8xgmDxyzs2A/s960/PixabaySadTeen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHiVRNYxJs-Bo1X-_o9jd_vghnkXCSAYdo7wnEq0F1WPMeTPjVZgYsqMirwlV8r3UVJLjLR_KF5utQQ1OJRgiIaq5JGdw7cLsiT1GOKdrwhyphenhyphenyug88yVxZqzDy_isgPMjqk8xgmDxyzs2A/s320/PixabaySadTeen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This has been an extremely difficult time. Since March 2020 there has been a rise in teen depression, anxiety, stress and suicide ideation. Parents are concerned and struggling for answers.</div></span></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Teen Depression</span></h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen depression</strong> is a serious mental health problem that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It affects how your teenager thinks, feels and behaves, and it can cause emotional, functional and physical problems. Although depression can occur at any time in life, symptoms may be different between teens and adults.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Issues such as <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-peer-pressure/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #008ae6; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teen Peer Pressure">peer pressure</a>, academic expectations and changing bodies can bring a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for some teens, the lows are more than just temporary feelings — they’re a symptom of depression.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen depression isn’t a weakness or something that can be overcome with willpower — it can have serious consequences and requires long-term treatment. For most teens, depression symptoms ease with treatment such as medication and psychological counseling.</p><h3 style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Symptoms </h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Teen depression signs and symptoms include a change from the teenager’s previous attitude and behavior that can cause significant distress and <strong style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">problems at school or home</strong>, in social activities, or in other areas of life.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Depression symptoms can vary in severity, but changes in your teen’s emotions and behavior may include the examples below.</p><h3 style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Emotional changes</h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Be aware of the following emotional changes:</p><ul style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 18px 1.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Feelings of sadness, which can include crying spells for no apparent reason</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Frustration or feelings of anger, even over small matters</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Feeling hopeless or empty</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Irritable or annoyed mood</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Loss of interest in, or conflict with, family and friends</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Low self-esteem</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Feelings of worthlessness or guilt</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Fixation on past failures or exaggerated self-blame or self-criticism</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure, and the need for excessive reassurance</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Ongoing sense that life and the future are grim and bleak</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Frequent thoughts of death, dying or suicide</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Behavioral changes</span></span></h3><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08XAgN7G8tuWZAhkx65-frcV0cZn3cxUsCa0aZeSWtFv4ahF8AzM2xYRS3U5us4xXVmTCvh014hMrJ7rs8o62cDtM5jehGJI3N8MciT-EhDnmfSIz8di_SMdFGS3_otOymX3kvaHGgSQ/s960/PixabaySadTeen2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08XAgN7G8tuWZAhkx65-frcV0cZn3cxUsCa0aZeSWtFv4ahF8AzM2xYRS3U5us4xXVmTCvh014hMrJ7rs8o62cDtM5jehGJI3N8MciT-EhDnmfSIz8di_SMdFGS3_otOymX3kvaHGgSQ/s320/PixabaySadTeen2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Know the warning signs of behavioral changes:</span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><ul style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 18px 1.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tiredness and loss of energy</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Insomnia or sleeping too much</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Changes in appetite — decreased appetite and weight loss, or increased cravings for food and weight gain</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Use of alcohol or drugs</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Agitation or restlessness — for example, pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit still</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Frequent complaints of unexplained body aches and headaches, which may include frequent visits to the school nurse</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Social isolation</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Poor school performance or frequent absences from school</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Less attention to personal hygiene or appearance</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Angry outbursts, disruptive or risky behavior, or other acting-out behaviors</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Self-harm — for example, cutting, burning, or excessive piercing or tattooing</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Making a suicide plan or a suicide attempt</li></ul><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b>What's normal and what's not normal</b></span></span></div></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">It can be difficult to tell the difference between ups and downs that are just part of being a teenager and teen depression. Talk with your teen. Try to determine whether he or she seems capable of managing challenging feelings, or if life seems overwhelming.</span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"><b>When it's time to see a doctor</b></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If depression signs and symptoms continue, begin to interfere in your teen’s life, or cause you to have concerns about suicide or your teen’s safety, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional trained to work with adolescents. Your teen’s family doctor or pediatrician is a good place to start. Or your teen’s school may recommend someone.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Depression symptoms likely won’t get better on their own — and they may get worse or lead to other problems if untreated. Depressed teenagers may be at risk of suicide, even if signs and symptoms don’t appear to be severe.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you’re a teen and you think you may be depressed — or you have a friend who may be depressed — don’t wait to get help. Talk to a health care provider such as your doctor or school nurse. Share your concerns with a parent, a close friend, a spiritual leader, a teacher or someone else you trust.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>When it's time for emergency help</b></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Suicide is often associated with depression. If you think your teen may hurt themselves or attempt suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Also consider these options if you’re having suicidal thoughts:</p><ul style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 18px 1.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Call your mental health professional.</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Call a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use its webchat on <a href="http://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #008ae6; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">suicidepreventionlifeline.org/</a>chat.</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Seek help from your primary care doctor or other health care provider.</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Reach out to a close friend or loved one.</li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline;">Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.</li></ul><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Never ignore comments or concerns about suicide. Always take action to get help.</p><h6 style="border: 0px; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 500; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Source: Mayo Clinic</h6><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you have exhausted your local resources and feel your teen is struggling with depression, it might be time to consider residential therapy. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #008ae6; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Contact Us">Contact us</a> for more information.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GTz_yZ25_Cg" width="320" youtube-src-id="GTz_yZ25_Cg"></iframe></div><br /><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-80616259939994039892020-12-10T09:31:00.001-05:002020-12-10T09:31:15.138-05:00Will My Teen Hate Me If I Send Them Away To Get Help?<h3>HELP! My teen needs help, but will they hate me if I send them away?</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianw1-MoFr_q7S-2XrPfwuG5GfCrnMstGQ8sepoS60RyAmoZ2_wqW1yasgnix7fT7dzB16HQnmEM_hWe3ENVo0f0YG1Wb3fOiF_-MaL5CgVTDMR_2QxjJjFRysm5o0gGh-nRnP8R-p8hE/s1215/BigTeenHand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="885" data-original-width="1215" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianw1-MoFr_q7S-2XrPfwuG5GfCrnMstGQ8sepoS60RyAmoZ2_wqW1yasgnix7fT7dzB16HQnmEM_hWe3ENVo0f0YG1Wb3fOiF_-MaL5CgVTDMR_2QxjJjFRysm5o0gGh-nRnP8R-p8hE/w200-h146/BigTeenHand.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your teen will likely be scared of the new situation and may also promise to “<strong>do better at home”</strong> if you've discussed the possibility of going to a <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/does-my-teen-need-residential-therapy/" title="Does My Teen Need Residential Therapy?">therapeutic boarding school or residential treatment center</a>.
We never recommend parents <em>threaten</em> their child with this option, since choosing residential therapy is such an amazing opportunity for your teen to develop coping skills they may be lacking, improve self-esteem to make better choices, learn anger and stress management skills and most of all - improve their <em>overall mental wellness</em>. </span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most of these programs' strengths are targeted at emotional growth and wellness - academics are typically secondary, but <u>are</u> important. Keep in mind, without emotional wellness - nothing will work in life.
In our experience, your child will likely grow from fear and anger they already have -- to love and understanding that this decision was made with their <strong>best interests in mind</strong>. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are parents, too, and we know this is a tough decision, but it is one of the most loving decisions you can make for your teen’s future.
The majority of parents have to employ a <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/transport-escort-services/" title="Transport (Escort) Services">transport service</a> to safely get their teen to a program. Although this can seem deceptive, again, you will be pleasantly surprised that your teen will not hate you. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">We encourage you to talk to other parents and <strong>teens</strong> that have used these services to better understand how they work. Don't rely on the internet and some stories that are geared towards fearmongering. Be smart, hire licensed and insured teams, talk to references and get your child the help they need. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a major financial and emotional decision, it's going to impact your teen on so many levels in their long-term life. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's why since 2001 we've been educating parents about the teen help industry and finding the best fit for your individual needs.
<a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" title="Contact Us">Contact us </a>for more information.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I4qmpizyKAc" width="320" youtube-src-id="I4qmpizyKAc"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-88065883478649813032020-11-17T14:42:00.000-05:002020-11-17T14:42:15.381-05:00Why Teen Depression, Anxiety and Stress is Climbing During COVID-19<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">If you were struggling with your teen prior March of 2020 with mental health issues, chances are your concerns have doubled if not tripled. More and more parents are worried about their teen's emotional wellbeing since COVID-19 shutdown our country.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbFAmWJKkQw1AD3evNtrsCvafX9dgIlroB9aYDglBAmYizK9rCVpUq_dzCxJFYNn5az04763M5wAFVlCDALAGW5yl44Y_KWrLuGKoEioahriqtcPCKEBImOZeNh9stBQxs-1wh5prYes/s1100/PixabaySadTeen3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbFAmWJKkQw1AD3evNtrsCvafX9dgIlroB9aYDglBAmYizK9rCVpUq_dzCxJFYNn5az04763M5wAFVlCDALAGW5yl44Y_KWrLuGKoEioahriqtcPCKEBImOZeNh9stBQxs-1wh5prYes/s320/PixabaySadTeen3.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />From remote learning to social distancing and even wearing masks -- the new normal of everyday life is taking a toll not only on young people but on adults too.</span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">New <a href="https://theharrispoll.com/the-state-of-teen-mental-health-during-covid-19-in-america-a-4%E2%80%91h-and-harris-poll-youth-mental-health-survey/" target="_blank">research</a> shares that over half, <b>55% of teens are now experiencing anxiety, 45% are struggling with excessive stress and 43% are depressed.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Key findings:</b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 26px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 26px; margin-left: 21px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">81% of teens say mental health is a significant issue for young people in the U.S., and 64% of teens believe that the experience of COVID-19 will have a lasting impact on their generation’s mental health.</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 26px; margin-left: 21px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">In this stressful climate, 7 in 10 teens have experienced struggles with mental health.</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 26px; margin-left: 21px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">61% of teens said that COVID-19 pandemic has increased their feeling of <b>loneliness</b>.</span></li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 26px; margin-left: 21px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Teens today report spending 75% of their waking hours <b>on screens</b> during COVID-19.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">T</span><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">eens are dealing with a variety of emotional challenges, such as fitting in socially, defining their identity, and dealing with the changing demands and realities of school and home life due to COVID-19. Some teens have added stressors and burdens during this time, including financial concerns, family conflicts, and trauma or violence in their home and community.</span><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"></span><br style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">It's characteristic of teens to display mood swings, distressing thoughts, anxiety and impulsive behavior, leading many parents to wonder whether what they are observing is typical teenage behavior or signifies something more concerning.</span></span><br style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></span></div><h4 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">Signs of depression or suicide ideation</span></span></h4><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">Teens can be reluctant to share their thoughts with parents, especially if they believe their parents are stressed out too. It's important to be aware that teens typically display subtle warning signs through their behavior, conversations and even social media content.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul style="border: 0px; font-family: Montserrat, Arial; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: outside none; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; vertical-align: baseline;"><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white;">Hopelessness, crying spells, persistent sadness and <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-anxiety/" target="_blank">anxiety</a></span><div class="fb-quote fb_iframe_widget" fb-iframe-plugin-query="app_id=714239018706221&container_width=880&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sharp.com%2Fhealth-news%2Fteen-isolation-and-suicide-prevention-during-a-pandemic.cfm&locale=en_US&sdk=joey" fb-xfbml-state="rendered" style="border: 0px; display: inline-block; font: inherit; left: 355px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: absolute; top: 2695px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; display: inline-block; font: inherit; height: 47px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify; vertical-align: bottom; width: 169px;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" class="" data-testid="fb:quote Facebook Social Plugin" frameborder="0" height="1000px" name="f265ad43412b0bc" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/v2.12/plugins/quote.php?app_id=714239018706221&channel=https%3A%2F%2Fstaticxx.facebook.com%2Fx%2Fconnect%2Fxd_arbiter%2F%3Fversion%3D46%23cb%3Df2230d70d50c4a4%26domain%3Dwww.sharp.com%26origin%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.sharp.com%252Ff6eda8af621c84%26relation%3Dparent.parent&container_width=880&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sharp.com%2Fhealth-news%2Fteen-isolation-and-suicide-prevention-during-a-pandemic.cfm&locale=en_US&sdk=joey" style="border-style: none; border-width: initial; font: inherit; height: 47px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: absolute; vertical-align: baseline; visibility: visible; width: 169px;" title="fb:quote Facebook Social Plugin" width="1000px"></iframe></span></div></li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white;">Disinterest in personal hygiene and appearance</span></li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white;">Engagement in high-risk behaviors, <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-self-harm-and-self-injury/" target="_blank">self-injury</a>, verbal or physical aggression, or substance use</span></li><li style="border: 0px; font: inherit; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white;">Preparatory behaviors such as writing a goodbye letter or post on social media, giving away possessions, researching methods for harming themselves or securing ways to harm themselves (e.g., collecting pills, obtaining a firearm, etc.)</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial;">If you feel your teen is<a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-depression/" target="_blank"> suffering with depression</a> contact a local adolescent therapist. It's always helpful to use your insurance policy for a referral to have the most beneficial financial coverage. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat, Arial;">Once you've exhausted your local resources and you believe your teen is still struggling, residential therapy might be an option for you. <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/is-residential-therapy-right-for-my-teen/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> for more information. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GTz_yZ25_Cg" width="320" youtube-src-id="GTz_yZ25_Cg"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><p></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-40449041475304693092020-10-22T13:20:00.000-04:002020-10-22T13:20:01.992-04:00How Do You Know If Your Teen Is Using Drugs or Alcohol?<p><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI7lqLvL4mdkMXJkZiIDA_f6yPyBJIFGv3CChIlZDT0FLHQ9HGwEjZJGiLkMIH-Jdt1QanR8-KB4PJW1V2F39NBD3aaMMwKa3wzVxCT0gbENcAD8CEeYEOJNhhhbxyGU8T3fGqy8gsrQ/s1348/BigstockTeenDrugUse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="1348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI7lqLvL4mdkMXJkZiIDA_f6yPyBJIFGv3CChIlZDT0FLHQ9HGwEjZJGiLkMIH-Jdt1QanR8-KB4PJW1V2F39NBD3aaMMwKa3wzVxCT0gbENcAD8CEeYEOJNhhhbxyGU8T3fGqy8gsrQ/s320/BigstockTeenDrugUse.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Warning signs your teen might be using drugs or drinking</span></h3><p></p><p><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">This is a difficult question that many parents have to
face on a daily basis.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Parents who spend
a great deal of time with their teenagers are often tuned into what is normal
behavior and what is not.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">However, even
parents who are actively involved in the daily activities of their teenagers
may overlook – or subconsciously deny – the earliest signs of a substance abuse
problem.</span> </p><p>Some of the clues that your teenager
may exhibit when <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/15-warning-signs-of-teen-drug-use/" target="_blank">using drugs</a> or <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/underage-drinking-warning-signs-your-teen-is-drinking/" target="_blank">alcohol</a> are fairly subtle, but others are
rather obvious: </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Many
hours spent alone, especially in their room; persistent isolation from the rest
of the family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is particular
suspicious in a youngster who had not been a loner until now. </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Resistance
to taking with or confiding in parents, secretiveness, especially in a teenager
who had previously been open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be sure
that your teenager is not being secretive because every time he tries to
confide in you, you jump on him or break his confidence. </li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There
is marked change for the worse in performance and attendance at school and/or
job or other responsibilities as well as in dress, hygiene, grooming, frequent
memory lapses, lack of concentration, and unusual sleepiness. </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A
change of friends; from acceptable to unacceptable. </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Pronounced
mood swings with irritability, hostile outbursts, and <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/defiant-disrespectful-and-rebellious-teens/" target="_blank">rebelliousness</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your teenager may seem untrustworthy,
insincere or even paranoid. </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lying
, usually in order to cover up drinking or drug using behavior as well as
sources of money and possessions; stealing, shoplifting, or encounters with the
police.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Abandonment
of wholesome activities such as sports, social service and other groups,
religious services, teen programs, hobbies, and even involvement in family
life. </li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Unusual
physical symptoms such as dilated or pinpoint pupils, bloodshot eyes, frequent
nosebleeds, changes in appetite, digestive problems, excessive yawning, and the
shakes.</li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;">These are just a few of the warning
signs that can be recognized. Be careful
not to jump to the conclusion that your teenager may be using when you see such
behavior. Evaluate the situation. Talk to your teenager. Try to spend time with her so that she feels
that she can trust you. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;">By creating a home
that is nurturing, she will understand that despite of unhealthy choices that
she will always get the love and moral support that she deserves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Building a strong relationship with your
teenager now will mean that in time of crises your love, support, wisdom, and
experience won’t be shut out of your teenager’s decision making.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;">If you have a suspicion that your teenager is
involved in the use of drugs or alcohol, don’t hesitate to bring the subject
up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sooner the problem is identified
and treated, the better the chances that your teenager’s future will be
safeguarded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;">Raising the subject will be
easier if you already have good communication in the family. Discuss the ways in which you can seek help
together. An evaluation by a substance
abuse professional may be the key to understanding what is really going on with
your teenager. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;">Continually saying,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times; font-weight: 600;"><i>not my teen</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;">, is not helping anyone. This is not a time for judgement, blame or even guilt. First and foremost, it’s about getting your child the help they need before this behavior gets worse.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -.5in;"><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;">If you have exhausted our local resources, your teen refuses to seek help, it might be time to consider residential therapy. <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; outline-color: initial; outline-width: initial; text-align: inherit;"><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.helpyourteens.com%2Fcontact-us%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0EtnHb7J1iPffVNJFWkbDqO7FaHNfqt1542PB8QeNsQaJ2TTJ01yaRIQE&h=AT0w5SqjYW-fZ2L2Z0AqKuuyDKX_wxZw7SbUj2vdKqL4D8upI6s64-HHM29iiS7TzQOZIw2jHc6boIwhkVkZsDiNJJLnFz68KtmFpg95lALU2Gsq_fynegGvsJ3Q0IHD" rel="nofollow noopener" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank"></a></span></span><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.helpyourteens.com%2Fcontact-us%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1eS6SDiIbMJtOAy0XNQkfcPoBS7pDvDb6fivV4pEfvDZzp4UuoWNNALAs&h=AT25M5kNLUwrhAitiHFeKSnut2v_hghUPVtKvC_3g7B2C4zwRRoETscu0BodaARR9Kq2-HWGOFioGEnJxpYygaEx3Edhgr21_wNgkOGhUI0-onOoGH8gatxngAccKHTodw" rel="nofollow noopener" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: times; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">Contact us</a><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: var(--primary-text); font-family: times;">for more information or call 954-260-0805 for a free consultation.</span></p><div class="pwh3vvf2 c9zspvje" style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; margin-bottom: 24px; max-width: 700px;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span class="d2edcug0 hpfvmrgz qv66sw1b c1et5uql rrkovp55 a8c37x1j keod5gw0 nxhoafnm aigsh9s9 d3f4x2em fe6kdd0r mau55g9w c8b282yb mdeji52x a5q79mjw g1cxx5fr knj5qynh oo9gr5id" dir="auto" style="color: var(--primary-text); display: block; line-height: 1.1765; max-width: 100%; min-width: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tj6ka-0eLmw" width="320" youtube-src-id="Tj6ka-0eLmw"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span><p></p></div>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-2468160591269565802020-10-02T11:21:00.000-04:002020-10-02T11:21:10.727-04:00Teen Anxiety Rising During COVID<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> Is Your Smart Teen Stuck in Anxiety?</span></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienyuza1X0LKfKSJLJHD_Ypuy6wiYd_S0TYcuOkiVJGB0Ggk3Lh2VY62_vwBiF37mq42h-Y7sbyARREs6XN56wy5ReYYSnVr7umQdAH9HfPFTRW7N45edtslHnR_M7T8mzJJzcMlYgbJg/s669/PexelsTeenAnxiety.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="451" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienyuza1X0LKfKSJLJHD_Ypuy6wiYd_S0TYcuOkiVJGB0Ggk3Lh2VY62_vwBiF37mq42h-Y7sbyARREs6XN56wy5ReYYSnVr7umQdAH9HfPFTRW7N45edtslHnR_M7T8mzJJzcMlYgbJg/s320/PexelsTeenAnxiety.JPG" /></a></div><br />It’s no secret, 2020 has been tough to get through. The pressures that the ongoing pandemic have placed on all of us have been challenging, especially for students who have had to adapt to online learning overnight. If you’re a student in this strange time, it can be extremely difficult to find the motivation to get up and tune in to class while the world is in a moment of crisis.<p></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">While the pandemic continues, it’s important to prioritize your mental health in tandem with your daily tasks. And even when school does return to an in-person setting, you want to maintain a robust practice of keeping your psychological and emotional wellbeing in check.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">So how can you stay on top of your anxiety when studies are too demanding or overwhelming? We’ve got some tips to help you get through this difficult time with a list of activities and practices to check in with yourself.</p><h3 style="border: 0px; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 500; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Here’s some ways students can mitigate the effects of anxiety:</h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1. Normalize Checking in with Yourself</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">A lot of us who suffer from <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/teen-anxiety/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #008ae6; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank" title="Teen Anxiety">anxiety</a> don’t know to recognize the telltale signs before it’s too late. The only time you seem to realize you’re in an anxious situation is when you’re in a state of panic about sending in an assignment just seconds before it’s due. Luckily, you can plan ahead to check in with yourself.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Find a regular time to formally ask yourself how you’re feeling. It could be every Friday, or it could be every time you have to study for a test. Depending on how frequently you experience the effects of anxiety, you may need to set a soothing alarm to check in with yourself every hour. That’s completely okay.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When checking in with yourself, it’s also helpful to make a list of all the symptoms you experience when you feel anxiety. Is it a headache? Stomach cramps? A fast heart rate? Whatever you feel that makes you uncomfortable or prevents you from thinking clearly, jot down the symptoms so you can recognize them early on. When you start to feel anxiety coming on and have a heightened awareness of what’s to come, you can excuse yourself from the situation until you’ve had a chance to think things through.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Let’s say you need to communicate with a teacher about your last essay grade. You did poorly and you want to know how to get better, but this particular instructor can be a bit intimidating. Having a list of your symptoms readily available can help you observe them, alerting you to take a step back. If you know one of your symptoms is a fast heart rate, you can slow it down with some deep breathing or by drinking a tall glass of water. Once you are more in control of your emotions, you can take care you’re your tasks while feeling comfortable.</p><h3 style="border: 0px; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 500; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2. Phone a Friend</h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">One of the hardest hitting aspects of quarantine is that you don’t have your friends around to talk with, hang out, or vent about what’s going on in your life. Though we’re all quarantining separately, you’re not alone in your struggle to seek out a sense of peace and calm in your life.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Anxiety has the ability to trap you in your own mind and body when you’re in a downward spiral. When you notice that you’re getting caught in your head, it can help contact a friend for guidance and to get you out of your head.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Enjoying the company of a companion will get you to think externally, helping your brain produce endorphins to relieve pain and stress and boost your happiness. After speaking to a friend or a loved one, you’ll find that you feel lighter and can tackle your work with more energy and resilience.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When it comes to receiving specific help on school issues though, developing a personal relationship with mentors can also be helpful. While teachers and your parents might be preoccupied with their own COVID-related stressors, you may want to turn to other students in your school who have already taken the classes you’ve taken or experts who can help you with what you’re going through.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Studies have shown that <a href="https://tutorportland.com/blog/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; color: #008ae6; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">the benefits of tutoring</a> extend well beyond achieving good grades! Tutors can help you with time management, relating your studies to your personal interests, and take the pressure off of speaking with a teacher or professor. Mentors can also provide you with personalized study strategies as well as good coping skills.<strong style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </strong></p><h3 style="border: 0px; color: #26aeb7; font-family: "Open Sans", Arial; font-size: 18px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 500; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">3. Live in the Moment</h3><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-12157" height="200" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-300x200.jpg" srcset="https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.helpyourteens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PixabayPencil2-250x167.jpg 250w" style="border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); display: inline; float: right; font: inherit; height: auto; margin: 5px 0px 12px 15px; max-width: 99%; padding: 6px; vertical-align: baseline;" width="300" />Anxiety is often caused by worrying about a future situation. Whether it’s the outcome of a job interview or the results of an exam, your mind is caught up in a situation that hasn’t really happened yet, and it can take away from your productivity in the moment.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When teens get trapped by the worst-case scenario, it can lead to panicked decision-making and further their anxiety about doing a good job on their assignment. This is why it’s important to plan ahead for situations that can put you in an anxious state of mind, so you be more present and level-headed.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">One way to live in the moment and stay focused on the present is, ironically, by planning ahead. You can configure your schedule to anticipate anxiety-inducing activities that will affect your well-being and your work. Simply extend the amount of time a given activity will take to include a moment of calm before and after the event.</p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;">Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/understanding-teen-depression/" target="_blank">depression</a> and other
mental health challenges.</span><span style="background: white; color: #444444; font-size: 13pt; text-indent: 0in;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;">If you suspect your child is suffering
from depression, ask your family doctor or pediatrician to provide you with a
referral to an appropriate mental health professional. </span></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;">No one knows your child
or teen better than you. If you suspect something is wrong, chances are you’re
right.</span></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;">If you've exhausted your local resources and want to consider residential therapy, contact <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/contact-us/" rel="nofollow">Parent Universal Resources</a> for more information about if this could be a good fit for your family.</span></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GTz_yZ25_Cg" width="320" youtube-src-id="GTz_yZ25_Cg"></iframe></div><br /><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background: white; color: #444444; text-indent: 0in;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4943118322528185172.post-67408412304572951312020-09-16T10:24:00.001-04:002020-09-16T10:24:41.888-04:00Paris Hilton's Experience with Residential Treatment Centers<p> <b>Why Parents Should Listen to Paris Hilton’s Story</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><span style="text-indent: 0in;">I get it, it’s
Paris Hilton, socialite, reality star and entitled child that seemed to have it
all. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="text-indent: 0in;">Why would anyone take advice from or even want to listen to her?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="text-indent: 0in;">Well, I’ll speak
for myself, as a mother – Paris is not someone I would consider a role-model or
even someone I ever thought I could learn from as a parent, but I was wrong.</span><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">In the weeks
leading up to the “<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2020/09/07/paris-hilton-details-abuse-allegations-this-is-paris-documentary/5678747002/">This
Is Paris</a>” documentary, I was initially frustrated at why anyone needed to
hear from her in the middle of a pandemic when many are struggling with
unemployment and just trying to make ends meet – not to mention back-to-school
and all the difficulties online learning brings.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Then on a Sunday
morning, there she was on a <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-real-paris-hilton/">reputable morning
show</a> I always watch, being interviewed by a respectable journalist about
“This Is Paris”. I was taken aback when I realized this wasn’t a spoiled brat
wanting more airtime (or should we say <b><i>facetime)</i></b> for
self-promotion.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"><b>Parenting at
your wit’s end</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGbZ9hVfJl-5NciZ5VYrwtvKFR64wJlszvdu819G6r_x2eIuFc-fdHcGPGn9XuxFpSapuDmq_otBcnvzQhb1MBUVby_3zgJUnqzd1mIANhi6979NqRqUO5ltF_e-7aknfOpf4O_rIZmc/s244/WitsHands_crop5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGbZ9hVfJl-5NciZ5VYrwtvKFR64wJlszvdu819G6r_x2eIuFc-fdHcGPGn9XuxFpSapuDmq_otBcnvzQhb1MBUVby_3zgJUnqzd1mIANhi6979NqRqUO5ltF_e-7aknfOpf4O_rIZmc/s0/WitsHands_crop5.JPG" /></a></div>At 15 years- of
age, Paris Hilton was out-of-control and her parents could no longer help her
at home. After placing her in a series of wilderness programs, which are
designed to break down a child, they ended up enrolling her in an intensive
residential treatment center. According to Paris, it was both emotionally and
physically abusive.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Paris Hilton’s
parents could be any one of us with a difficult teenager, especially today. I
know this firsthand.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">I was that mother.
In 1999, I struggled with <a href="https://www.karikampakis.com/2020/09/when-my-daughter-drove-me-to-my-wits-end-guest-post-by-sue-scheff/%20%20">my
daughter</a> and I believed I was doing what was best for her when I decided to
make very similar choices to the one’s Hilton’s parents did. Fortunately for
us, we didn’t buy into the wilderness shuffle, however we did place her into a
teen help program that was extremely harmful. Thankfully, that facility is
closed today.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">The rise of teen
defiance, entitlement, depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, and other
behavioral issues is rising at alarming rates today. COVID-19 has only added to
the stress and frustration that both parents and teens are experiencing.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">No doubt, the
Hilton’s had privilege on their side, but all of us also have options and
resources available in different ways. Rich or poor, what happened to Paris and
my daughter was <i>unacceptable</i>.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"><b>Sharing our
stories</b><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">When I <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/a-parents-true-story/">shared our story</a>
in 2001, the program that harmed my daughter sued me to remove it from the
Internet. I won that case since truth is always a defense, in a trial in Utah.
Since then I have continued to help educate parents about teen help schools and
programs.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">I was
exceptionally stunned to read all the hateful comments Paris received on social
media after the morning segment aired. No matter who we are, what we have or
where we come from – when someone is struggling emotionally, they don’t deserve
to be harmed.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Interestingly,
when I shared my story publicly years ago (decades now), I was faced with the
same criticism. People (especially parents) can be so judgmental, specifically
those have never been faced with these hard choices. “How can you send your
daughter away? Why didn’t you know? Why? Why?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">I’m constantly
speaking with parents today who are making these tough decisions. It’s about
giving your child a second opportunity at a bright future,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>no one intends for them to have the outcome
we did. There <b>are</b> quality schools in our country – it’s why we’re
learning from Paris’s story – and mine.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Granted, we’re not
the Hilton family, however this is about compassion and understanding for what
parents are going through when they reach their wit’s end. Money or no money,
we’re all human and want the best for our children. I don’t believe any one of
us intended for our kids to be hurt.<span style="text-indent: 0in;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">The moral of our
stories: Learn from our mistakes, gain from knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even Paris Hilton’s.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"><i><o:p> </o:p></i><i style="text-indent: 0in;">Sue Scheff is
the founder of </i><a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/" style="text-indent: 0in;"><i>Parent Universal
Resource Experts</i></a><i style="text-indent: 0in;"> and author of Shame Nation: The Global Epidemic of
Online Hate.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I4qmpizyKAc" width="320" youtube-src-id="I4qmpizyKAc"></iframe></div><br />Paris Hilton's experiences were with Provo Canyon School and a few <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEDU" target="_blank">CEDU programs</a>. Although Provo claims they are new owners now, we still hear negative feedback on this program. CEDU programs - have opened and closed - with a variety of owners and new names. It's exactly why we always encourage parents to do their due diligence.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Don't allow our stories not to get your child the help they need, on the contrary, it should encourage you to find healthy, safe and quality programs. It's likely the Hilton family used an <a href="https://www.helpyourteens.com/do-i-need-to-hire-an-educational-consultant/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Educational Consultant</a> (EC) - since they were all EC affiliated programs (in our opinion). They tend to lean towards programs that are corporately owned -and typically always encourage parents to send their child to wilderness - no matter what the issues are.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">If you read my story - they attempted to convince us of that too, thankfully we didn't buy into it. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-indent: 0in;">Read more on about this on <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shame-nation/202009/what-parents-can-learn-the-paris-hilton-documentary" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Psychology Today</a>.</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Sue Scheffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12280699369282151042noreply@blogger.com