Is your child the definition of a troubled teen? The term “troubled teen” means different things to different people. A parent with strict rules might think that a child who rebels by dressing differently or getting a B on a report card is troubled. Another who sees their child get into trouble at school may begin to realize that their teen is troubled in ways they didn’t previously think about.
If you have a child and believe that they are showing signs of becoming a troubled teen, it’s best to be proactive. Even if you’ve tried many methods to get your teen to straighten up, there are other support systems available to help, such as the team at Venture Academy.
What Are Some Signs of a Troubled Teen?
There are many signs that a teen is going through problems that are causing negative and unwanted behaviours. Some of the common warning signs that parents should watch out for include:
- Grades that are dropping
- Secretive behaviour
- Experimenting with drugs and alcohol
- Lying
- Attempting not to fit in at school or with peers
- Losing interest in activities
- Extreme mood swings
- Failing to comply with limits and rules
- Finding humor in witnessing or causing pain to others
- Openly displaying rebellious tendencies
- Sleeping often
- Spending time alone often
- Intense sadness
- A volatile temper
- A sudden change in friendships
How Can Parents Connect with a Troubled Teen?
Though your child may be struggling now, it is possible to connect with them and get them the support and assistance they need. A few tips are to be aware of your stress level, find common ground, and be ready to support your teen.
Handle Your Stress Level
The first thing you can do as a parent to support your teen is to make sure you’re handling your own stress level. If you’re stressed out, there is more of a chance that you’ll react to the things they do without thinking through how you want to handle the situation. No one is going to be perfect, but do your best to reduce your own stress and approach any issues your child has with grace.
Find Common Ground
Another helpful tip is to find common ground. Your teen might be pulling away for any number of reasons, but if you can find common ground, they’ll be more likely to talk to you. Consider taking up a video game they like, participating in a sport they love, or just making yourself available when they might need you to take them shopping or help them with homework.
At first, you may be rejected, but if your teen sees that you’re not walking away, they’re going to come around eventually. Be persistent and patient to help them get through their problems.
Be Supportive
Finally, and most importantly, be supportive. Everyone was a teen at one time or another, which means everyone knows what it’s like. Hormones are changing, peer pressure is constant, and teens are bombarded with media and influences from all kinds of sources. Let your child know that you’re going to be there for them no matter what so that they feel confident speaking with you.
Contact Venture Academy Today for Support for Your Troubled Teen
At Venture Academy, we’re here to help parents get their children the support they need. We know that growing up can be tough, but when substance use disorders, teen mental health concerns, unusual behaviour issues, and other problems rear their head, it’s time to get professional help with teen treatment options. Call us today at 866.762.2211 to learn more about how our services can help your teen get back on track.
