Adolescence is a time of change and transition for young people, a time which is often accompanied by new and confusing emotions and situations. Such a time is not only difficult for the adolescent, but also for the families and loved ones who accompany them during this new stage of life.
Mental health issues commonly surface during adolescence and it is important that teens have a forum to express themselves with someone who understands their psychology, and has the mental health knowledge to help them navigate successfully through the challenges they face.
The primary task of adolescent development is to transition from being a child, an entity linked to and governed by the actions of the parent, to an independent adult who is prepared to handle the realities of the world that awaits them. And while adolescents desperately seek independence, they are not fully psychologically prepared to have it yet. What results is an internal conflict, which often gets externalized in the form of conflict with parents. It is also normal for adolescents to exhibit "Parent Allergy", the tendency to want to do the opposite of what the parent wants them to do. As frustrating as this may be for parents, it is a normal and healthy part of adolescent development.
As a parent, it is sometimes difficult to understand what your teenager is going through and how to be of most help to them. Yet, it is a fundamental belief of mine that parents and adolescents want to the same things for one another, not matter how polarized their views seem. Adolescents still crave the approval, love and support of their parents, and they desperately need it in order to accomplish the developmental task they face. Often times, working with a mental health professional can help bridge the gap between parents and teens, reminding them that they do share a cohesive vision and want the same positive things for one another.
The world that adolescents face today is not the same world that parents faced growing up. It is a world of immediacy, where boundless information is available at the touch of a button, where the stakes are high, the risks are real and where a strong connection to ones family is more important than ever. If you know of an adolescent or family who is struggling with issues of adolescence, one of the best ways to help is to refer them to a professional to talk about what is going on.
From issues of family miscommunication to serious mental health conditions, your professional can guide you through this difficult time and help you reestablish the connection that is so meaningful to your family.
