Teens face immense pressure to succeed, often feeling defined by their achievements. A recent study from the Center for Digital Thriving at Harvard, Indiana University, and Common Sense Media reveals that 1 in 4 American teens struggles with burnout. On Mental Health Day, I reflected on the importance of reducing this pressure, sharing insights from my work and parenting experience to encourage a healthier, balanced approach for teens.
Building trust with your child starts at birth and becomes more challenging as they grow. Open communication is essential, but many parents worry about sharing too much or having tough conversations too soon. The key is to be honest, stick to the facts, and tailor discussions to your child’s age. Consistency is crucial in fostering trust and open dialogue over time.
When addressing substance use, early intervention is critical. Author Matthias Jung emphasizes discussing topics like smoking, vaping, drugs, and addiction before age 13 for greater impact. If you’re unsure how to approach these conversations, seek help from an expert.
