Will My Teen Hate Me If I Send Them Away To Get Help?
HELP! My teen needs help, but will they hate me if I send them away?
Your teen will likely be scared of the new situation and may also promise to “do better at home” if you've discussed the possibility of going to a therapeutic boarding school or residential treatment center. We never recommend parents threaten 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 overall mental wellness.
Most of these programs' strengths are targeted at emotional growth and wellness - academics are typically secondary, but are 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 best interests in mind.
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 transport service 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.
We encourage you to talk to other parents and teens 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.
This is a major financial and emotional decision, it's going to impact your teen on so many levels in their long-term life.
It's why since 2001 we've been educating parents about the teen help industry and finding the best fit for your individual needs.
Contact us for more information.