Teen Angst: What should be there in the teenage

Teenagers sometimes get upset and show it by arguing, being very emotional, walking away angrily, looking unhappy, and creating dramatic situations. This can make parents feel tired, annoyed, and sad.

How can parents deal with these feelings from their teens, since it is a normal part of being a teenager? And how can they tell if this behaviour is just regular teenage moodiness or if it is a more serious problem?

Is it usual for teenagers to have strong mood swings

We talked to Alex Hamilton, who helps teenage girls at a special school. Alex says, “When teens are figuring out who they are, feeling moody is normal. They ask questions like, ‘Why do my parents do this? Why are there rules?’ This might make them seem rebellious, but it is just them learning about themselves.”

How should a parent deal with their teenager’s difficult feelings

First, understand that it is normal for teens to feel this way when they are growing up. And know that you can support your teen during this time.

“Try to use it in a good way and have meaningful talks,” said Alex.

Here are some ways to help your teen when they are going through tough times:

Make sure your teenager gets enough sleep

It is not just little kids who need good sleep. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that, on average, teens should sleep for 8-10 hours each night. Their bodies are changing a lot, and their brains are growing fast.

Help them make a routine for going to bed that helps them sleep well

• Choose a time to start getting ready for bed and stick to it every night.
• Turn off social media, stop notifications, and keep gadgets out of the bedroom.
• Help your teen relax by stretching, having a cup of herbal tea, spending time together, or reading together.
• We all have fewer mood swings when we get enough sleep.

Spend time with your teenager

To talk and have important conversations with your teenager, you need to be there for them. Make time for these talks to happen.

Plan to spend time with your teenager, create good memories together, and be available for when they want to talk. Share chores, work on projects, go out for meals, and enjoy each other’s company.

Give your teenager some alone time if they want it

We all need time by ourselves. Your teenager needs time to think about things, and it is hard to do that when they are always with others or constantly busy with activities.

Show your teenager how to be thankful

Remember, your teenager looks up to you. When you show gratitude in your own life, you are also teaching them a healthier way to approach life.

If your teenager is going through a tough time, can therapy still be useful

Therapy is when you talk to someone who listens to your feelings and thoughts, and they are not part of your daily life. You do not have to be really sick to benefit from this kind of help. It is important to think about what you need when looking for a therapist, and teenagers dealing with difficult feelings are the same:

“Find a therapist who does not try to stop the strong emotions but can create a welcoming atmosphere during therapy,” says Alex. “When working with teenagers, it is important to accept their thoughts, opinions, and comments without judging them, and also teach them how to manage their emotions. Being curious and asking questions is important.”

Sometimes, it is tough for teenagers to talk to their parents about their feelings, and it can be hard for parents to listen. In such cases, a therapist can be really helpful. A therapist can also help figure out if your teen is going through a normal part of growing up or if they might need help with a mental health problem.

What is the Difference Between Teenage Stress and Teen Depression or Anxiety

Sometimes, teen stress can seem a lot like mental health problems, like being really sad or anxious and being quick to argue. However, according to Psychology Today, there are important differences to watch for.

How long the stress lasts: If a teenager has a fight with a friend, that is normal, and they might be emotional or go to their room to be alone. However, how long do they stay upset? Is it causing problems in their other relationships? Are they holding onto the bad feelings, or can they get over it, do their homework, and have dinner with the family?

How often they are stressed: Teens can get upset about things and need time to think about it, but is it happening so much that they seem to be struggling with everyday life?

How serious the stress is: A teenager with regular stress can still do well in school, stay active in their hobbies, and have good relationships. However, if their life is falling apart, and they are having a hard time coping, that might be a sign that it is more than just “normal teenage stress,” and they might need help.

It is good to know that when teenagers are depressed, they might not always seem sad. Sometimes, they might get really angry, like arguing or yelling. Other times, they might become very quiet and keep to themselves.

As a parent, you should think about whether your teenager is having a hard time in important parts of their life, like their hobbies, how they are doing in school, their friendships, and how they get along with you and the rest of the family.

If they are dealing with depression or anxiety, you will notice that they have more problems with their daily activities, and it takes them longer to feel better after something upsets them.

Teenage Stress Is a Natural Part of Growing Up

Most likely, your teenager’s mood swings are a normal part of becoming an adult. They need time to question their own thoughts and yours to discover who they are. It might be frustrating for both you and them, but this experience helps them develop.

When you see stress as a regular part of growing up and deal with it together, it can actually make your relationship stronger.

This does not mean your teenager will not benefit from seeing a therapist who knows about teenage stress and can guide them through this time.

If your teenager is having a tough time

If you believe your teenager’s mood changes are making it hard for them in important areas of their life, like school, hobbies, or friendships, it is a good idea to get them professional help sooner rather than later. This will assist your teenager in learning how to deal with these difficulties and getting the help they require.

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