What belongs in a teenager’s mental health toolbox
Skills for dealing with stress and conflict resolution are key
Transitioning to high school or college can be a challenging time for everyone involved. The teenager or young adult in transition will need to learn how to deal with new stress and develop new communication skills as they find themselves in uncharted territory. The family, in turn, needs to be prepared for the additional stressors that may be entering their child’s life. As your teenager or young adult is preparing to enter high school or college, consider talking with them about the importance of dealing with stress and developing strong conflict resolution skills.
When coping with stress remember that it is possible to be overscheduled. None of us are super heroes and as much as we would like to think we can, we can’t do it all alone – including your teen or young adult. Think of being involved with activities on a spectrum; on one end of the scale are individuals who do absolutely nothing to be involved and on the other end of the scale are individuals who want to do it all. You want your teen or young adult to find a balance somewhere pleasantly in the middle. Remind your teen/young adult to have realistic expectations and to treat their body well. These four healthy habits go a long way and always will no matter your age: nutrition, physical activity, cleanliness, and rest.
In terms of communication, the keyword is assertiveness: the ability to speak up for yourself while remaining honest and respectful. In other words, say what you mean, mean what you say, without being mean. This is not always the easiest concept to master for a teen/young adult. For example, giving your opinion, saying how you feel, asking for what you need, disagreeing respectfully, offering ideas and suggestions, saying no without feeling guilty, and speaking up for someone else. However, remember this too falls on a continuum. Most of us naturally are either passive at one end of the scale or aggressive at the other. By being passive one might be compliant, submissive, vague, and more focused on the needs of others than on their own needs. Those who are aggressive tend to act and speak in ways that are harsh, interruptive, critical and solely focused on personal needs than the needs of others. Being assertive is the balance in the middle, and it is not always easy. Assertiveness is a skill that has to be consciously chosen, diligently learned, and continually practiced.
Your teen or young adult should enjoy their time in high school or college, and when things seem “impossible”, remind them that things don’t last forever. Time goes by quickly, and you want to make the most of every moment. Smile, laugh, and appreciate the little things.
Nikole E. Tome, MPH, CHES is an assistant director/program evaluation at the Byrnes Health Education Center. She graduated in 2013 from West Chester University with a Master’s Degree in Public Health. She has also obtained her Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credentials from the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.
