Parenting Guide : Supporting a Troubled Teenager

The many responsibilities of single parenthood can often overwhelm the most efficient multi-tasker. The time and energy needed to successfully support a depressed or troubled teenager can often devastate the delicate balance of a single parent family. In order to prevent neglect of the other aspects of your family and household, here are some tips to keep in mind to help maintain a holistic focus.

Maintain an honest and open family relationship. While your instincts may be to shelter other siblings and family members from the pain and anxieties of your troubled teenager, remember that children can sense when something is wrong. Being open and honest about what is going on can not only help any hidden thoughts of guilt, but can empower your children to help their sibling by showing support in their own way. In addition, encouraging everyone to share their thoughts and feelings can also help uncover any similar thoughts in other children.

Parenting Guide : Supporting a Troubled Teenager 

Consider the needs of healthy children. When there is a major fire, our impulse is the focus all of our efforts on putting it out. However, there are often embers smoldering in other areas that are kept at bay with proper balancing. The depression of one family member can often ignite the stress and anxiety in others so remember to keep a close eye on the siblings and maintain as much balance within the household as possible.

Seek out single parent support systems. Even in a two parent family, parents can become overwhelmed by trying to maintain a household during a crisis situation. This pressure is increased exponentially in a single parent household. Remember to seek out and maintain single parents support systems to help with stressful situations. Sometimes, simply talking with an understanding friend or family member can reduce stress and anxiety.

Parenting Guide : Supporting a Troubled Teenager 

Resist finger-pointing. Maintaining a positive outlook in an otherwise scary and tumultuous situation can often be very difficult. Resist blaming yourself or others since doing so will only cause additional stress to an already pressurized situation. The primary focus should be on restoring normalcy and moving toward a positive, healthy future.

Remember how to schedule self-care. While taking care of loved ones is the priority for the single mom, you can't forget to take care of yourself even in the face of adversity. The first order of business is making sure you maintain your good physical and mental health so that you provide the needed support for your family.