Finding Help for Your Struggling Teenager

Melissa HendersonBy Melissa Henderson4 Minutes

The news of a pregnancy is announced. The baby is born. Joy and happiness fill the hearts of family and friends. As the years pass by, milestones are celebrated. Birthdays, first steps, first words, elementary school achievements, and gifts such as art, music, or sports are explored. Each moment of a child’s life is a new opportunity to share the love of God with them. The words and actions of others can have a major influence on a child. What happens if the teenage years become difficult? How can we find help for a struggling teenager?

Every generation experiences growing and learning pains as children and adults seek to find the best way to help young people grow into compassionate, caring, responsible people. Parents want the best for their children. Children want and need positive examples of how to handle life situations.

Sometimes, even those teens with the best parents may struggle. In today’s world of influence by social media, bullying in and out of schools, and other concerns, teenagers need to know there is help if they are struggling.

Some teens may seek help when problems arise. An open line of communication with parents, teachers, clergy, trusted friends, and family, may be key to a young person sharing their concerns. If the teenager feels ashamed or embarrassed by something they are experiencing, they may not want to tell anyone close to them.

Finding help for teenagers is important for everyone. Emotions left bottled up inside can cause outbursts in negative ways through words and/or actions.

Some parents may be embarrassed that their teenager is struggling. Perhaps the parents don’t want anyone to know about the difficulties because they feel as if they have failed as parents. These feelings may cause more problems. Sharing with other trusted parents may help bring resolution and help others dealing with similar issues.

When deciding to find help for a struggling teenager, the first thing to do is to pray. Ask God for wisdom, discernment, and revelation. Medical professionals may be needed. Licensed therapists can often aid in solving issues. There is no shame in seeking help.

Listen before speaking to your teenager. There may be times when your words are not needed. Your teen may need to vent and not want anyone to “fix” the problem at that time.

Who are the friends of your teen? Do you know their parents? What kind of activities does your young person enjoy? How can you enjoy those things with them?

Ask your teen how you can help. Sometimes they will have an answer. Other times, there won’t be any response.

Parent or guardian, know that you are not alone. The journey you have with your teen is unique and special. Don’t give up. God loves His children. God loves the young and the not-so-young. We can find answers when we give our concerns to the Father.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)

In His Name,
Melissa Henderson