Taking care of your mental health is just as important as getting regular lumps and bumps checked out. But when it comes to teenagers, they sometimes need a little helping hand.
Here's how you can help:
Foster a strong relationship
Make sure you foster a good, strong relationship with your teen so that they know they can come to you if they have any problems. This is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your teen has a well
balanced mental state.
Encourage and praise them
It is normal for your teen to feel down and anxious every now and then, but offer them as much encouragement as possible. Recognise when they do well in school or make good choices and never ever put them down even if you think it’s not too bad. Commenting negatively on your teen’s clothing can leave a lasting negative impression.
Make sure they exercise
Make sure they get plenty of regular exercise. Not only will it get them out of the house, physical activity can stimulate chemicals in your brain to make you feel good and they are likely to build up a positive body image.
Encourage them to talk about their feelings
Teens by nature are going to be moody and want to keep themselves to themselves, but try to encourage them to talk about their feelings. Listen to them when they do come to you with a problem and never pass judgement – they may not come to you again.
Watch what they get up to
Alcohol and drugs can seriously damage your teen’s mental health causing depression and anxiety. Talk to your young adult about the harmful effects of these and discourage them from hanging out with peers who partake in these kinds of activities.
Make sure they eat a healthy diet
Make sure your adolescent consumes a healthy diet at all times. Eating proper food won’t just give your young adult a better self image it also helps to keep the mind and body healthy.
