Surviving the Storm: A Guide for Parents of Struggling Teens
Struggling with a sense of inadequacy
Embark on a journey of understanding, support, and solutions with Valérie Guibbaud and Kaira Rodrigue, authors of "When My Teen is Struggling." This book serves as a beacon for parents grappling with the trials of drug abuse, mental health issues, violence, or delinquency in their teenagers.
De-stigmatizing Parental Struggles
Olivia Levy, our website: Was writing this book necessary to challenge societal norms?
Valérie Guibbaud: The burden of shame and guilt that parents of troubled teens carry is overwhelming. In our professional and personal lives, we rarely discuss the challenges we face raising children who are lost, hurting, or in crisis. This silence stems from our fear of appearing to have failed as parents and the judgments that follow. "When My Teen is Struggling" aims to break this taboo and provide a platform for conversation, empathy, and mutual support.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Kaira Rodrigue: Paying attention to subtle changes in behavior can help identify potential issues. Persistent boredom, lack of interest, isolation, and excessive reliance on substances or devices can all signal trouble. It's important to address these concerns when they surface, as they may point towards deeper issues and help lay the groundwork for intervention.
Fostering a Supportive Network
A strong bond with at least one parent or a trusted adult is essential. Whether it's a family member, friend, coach, or teacher, this individual can offer the emotional support and guidance necessary for a teen to regain their footing.
Valérie Guibbaud: My relationship with my parents was distant, but my aunt stepped in and provided the emotional support I needed when I was at my lowest. I strive to be that support system for my son, even when his choices leave me feeling hurt or confused.
Emergency Resources for Parents and Teens
Discovering resources during a crisis can be daunting. However, help is available. Calling the emergency services, reaching out to social workers, or accessing support programs can provide temporary respite and a chance to begin the healing process.
Navigating Boundaries
Setting clear boundaries is essential in supporting a struggling teenager, but striking the balance between providing support and maintaining control can be challenging.
Kaira Rodrigue: Maintaining open communication, consistency, and a sense of mutual respect are key. Encourage your teen to share their thoughts and feelings, and be willing to listen without judgment. Together, you can create a supportive environment that fosters growth and healing.
Remember, you're not alone in this storm. Seek support from resources like helplines, support groups, and online communities. Be open to seeking guidance from professionals to ensure you have the tools necessary to support your child and help them weather the storm.
When My Teen is Struggling
Valérie Guibbaud, Kaira Rodrigue
Les Éditions de l'Homme
208 pages
Resources for Parents of Struggling Teens in Crisis
Reach out to these resources for guidance and support:
- National Parent & Youth Helpline™. (855-427-2736, nationalparentyouthhelpline.org).
- Other Parents Like Me (oplm.com).
- Parents Anonymous (parentsanonymous.org).
- CDC’s Essentials for Parenting Teens (cdc.gov/mental-health).
- McLean Hospital’s Teen Mental Health Playbook (mcleanhospital.org).
Establishing Effective Boundaries for Support
Implementing and communicating boundaries effectively will help you provide the support your teenager needs:
- Clear Communication: Clearly express your expectations and consequences in a calm and consistent manner, explaining your rationale.
- Consistency: Maintain consistency in your rules and consequences to provide a sense of stability and security for your teenager.
- Respect Privacy: Foster an environment where your teenager feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings while keeping their safety your top priority.
- Model Healthy Boundaries: Demonstrate respectful and healthy relationship boundaries for your teenager to emulate.
- Involve Your Teen: Include your teenager in setting boundaries that are fair and workable for both parties.
- Seek Support: Leverage the resources mentioned above for advice and perspective on setting boundaries tailored to your family.
"3" "Our compassionate and trained Helpline counselors provide evidence-based support for any parent, caregiver, child or youth up to age 25... We provide resources and referrals and encourage those reaching out to call or connect with us as often as they need to get their issue resolved."
The book "When My Teen is Struggling" aims to break the taboo of silent struggles experienced by parents with teens facing drug abuse, mental health issues, violence, or delinquency, offering a platform for conversation and mutual support (Valérie Guibbaud). The immediate recognition of warning signs like persistent boredom, lack of interest, isolation, and excessive reliance on substances or devices can help parents address concerns and potentially avert deeper issues (Kaira Rodrigue). Establishing a supportive network, whether it be a family member, friend, coach, or teacher, can provide the emotional support and guidance a struggling teenager needs (Valérie Guibbaud). Resources like the National Parent & Youth Helpline™, Other Parents Like Me, Parents Anonymous, CDC’s Essentials for Parenting Teens, and McLean Hospital’s Teen Mental Health Playbook can offer guidance, support, and help parents establish effective boundaries for their struggling teen (various authors).
