Common Issues that Teens May Need Help Navigating

Everyone remembers the difficulties that accompany the teenage years. During teenage hood, individuals go through a lot of defining moments that determine who they become. As a parent, it is essential that you support your teenager during this defining time in life. To help your teenager become the best person they can be, as well as transform him or her into an independent adult, here is some advice regarding common teenage concerns. 

Education / Career Goals

One’s teenage years are a time to begin to think seriously about career goals. These are the years when it’s important to begin preparing for things like college and work. Choosing one’s school, degree, or job is a big decision to make, and many teenagers could benefit from guidance in selecting the right post-high school path. 

In high school, grades become more important than ever. These transcripts will go toward college admissions, so it’s critical that high schoolers stay on top of their grades. This is a lot of pressure, and teenagers can be dealing with a lot of personal problems during high school. Your teenager may need help maintaining their grades or completing school work. 

Sexuality

Another common struggle that teenagers face is determining their sexuality. Many people know from a very early age who they are attracted to. However, for others, their teenage years are a time to discover who they are and who they want to be with. This is a big journey for teenagers to go through and, depending on their sexuality, it can come with a lot of persecution and bullying from their peers. As a parent or mentor to these teens, it’s vital to provide love and support during this time. It’s important to remember that your child’s sexuality is a part of who they are. Ensure that your teen feels loved no matter how they identify.

Mental Health

Being a teenager is stressful. Between school, work, and one’s social life, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. However, many teenagers experience a level of anxiety that makes it difficult to thrive. Mental health struggles can manifest during your child’s teenage years, especially if it runs in your family. Keep an eye out for any symptoms, like a loss of motivation to participate in activities they once enjoyed or a desire to isolate themselves. Strive to provide your teen a judgment-free place to discuss their problems.

As children transition into adulthood, they deal with a lot. One’s teenage years can be an amazing, exploratory time filled with fun, but they can also be fraught with difficulty and self-doubt. To help your teenager through this time, guide them through these years with an open mind and compassion. 

New Pathways for Youth is an organization that helps teenagers in insecure areas find mentorship and healthy connections. Click here to learn more, and see how you can help their cause!