Teen Angst: Understanding Signs and Symptoms

teen substance abuse treatment

If you’re a parent, teacher, or someone who works closely with adolescents, you’ve probably encountered what’s often referred to as teen angst—that unique combination of moodiness, rebellion, emotional outbursts, and withdrawal that seems to come with the territory of adolescence. But how do you know when it’s just normal growing pains—and when it’s something more?…

Read More

Different Types of Parenting Styles: Which Fits You Best?

what parenting style is best

Every parent wants to raise a happy, healthy, and responsible child—but the how of parenting can vary greatly from one family to another. These differences are often rooted in what experts call parenting styles, and understanding yours can be a powerful tool for improving communication, resolving conflict, and helping your teen thrive—especially during challenging times.…

Read More

Dealing With Difficult Teenage Daughters

Dealing With Difficult Teenage Daughters

Raising a teenage daughter can sometimes feel like navigating an emotional minefield. One moment she’s sweet and smiling—then suddenly distant, angry, or in tears. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why is my daughter so difficult lately?”, you’re not alone. The teenage years are marked by rapid brain development, emotional intensity, and a deep desire for…

Read More

Is It Normal For A Teenager to Have a Stuffed Animal?

Teddy Bear

In today’s world, where teens are navigating pressures from academics, peers, and the internet, it’s easy to forget that they’re still growing emotionally. One question that often surprises parents is: Is it normal for a teenager to still have a stuffed animal? The short answer is—yes, absolutely. While it might seem unusual to some, holding…

Read More

ODD vs DMDD: What’s The Difference

lady thinking

Children and adolescents often exhibit challenging behaviors as they grow and develop. However, when these behaviors become persistent and disruptive, they may signal underlying behavioral disorders. Two such conditions are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD). While they share certain characteristics, understanding their distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective…

Read More

What Does It Mean When My Child Picks Their Skin?

what does it mean when my child picks their skin

If you’ve noticed your teen picking, scratching, or digging at their skin, you might feel worried and unsure about what this means or how to help. For many adolescents, this behavior goes beyond a simple bad habit and may develop into what mental health professionals call excoriation disorder (also known as dermatillomania or skin-picking disorder).…

Read More

The Difference Between Stress and Distress in Teenagers

Stress and Distress in Teenagers

Teenagers today navigate a world filled with academic pressure, social challenges, family expectations, and the influence of social media. It is natural for them to experience stress, which can be a healthy motivator when managed properly. However, when stress becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can turn into distress, which negatively affects their mental, emotional, and…

Read More

The Affect of Bullying on Teenagers

empty school room showing signs of teen truancy

How does bullying affect teens? Bullying is an unfortunate reality for many teenagers, with lasting effects that extend far beyond childhood. Whether it takes the form of verbal taunts, social exclusion, cyberbullying, or physical aggression, bullying can have a profound impact on a teen’s mental and emotional well-being. In today’s digital age, where social media…

Read More

Teen Truancy: The Causes, Consequences & Mental Health Impact

empty school room showing signs of teen truancy

Teen truancy is a growing concern for parents, educators, and mental health professionals. When a teenager frequently skips school without valid reasons, it can signal deeper issues that need to be addressed. While some may assume truancy is simply rebellious behavior, it is often a symptom of underlying emotional, social, or psychological struggles. Truancy can…

Read More

What Is Adolescent Egocentrism?

teen child struggling with parent sitting with their child during family therapy discussing what is adolescent egocentrism

Adolescence is a time of profound growth and self-discovery, but it’s also a period marked by intense self-focus and heightened emotions. One of the key psychological traits that emerge during this stage is adolescent egocentrism—a concept that describes how teens often see themselves as the center of attention and believe their experiences are unique or…

Read More