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When Your Child Opens Up: The Do’s and Don’ts

When Your Child Opens Up The Do’s and Don’ts

Several years ago, anxiety and depression are regarded as two taboo topics that should never be discussed under any circumstances. In the recent years, however, we are seeing a new kind of awareness surrounding these two issues. They’re no longer taboos but people are actually encouraging those who suffer from it to open up and share their experiences. Doing so achieves two things: a better avenue to pour out their problems and a better understanding of what constitutes these illnesses. So how should you react if someone opens up to you? As parents, this might be the last thing you want to encounter, especially if the one opening up is your child, but it is also your responsibility to be ready when it does come up. Teen Anxiety is a Teen Treatment Center in Los Angeles, and we want to remind you that there are certain things that we should and shouldn’t do. Here are some:

  • Never dismiss their feelings
    You should never say “It’s just a phase” under any circumstances. Acknowledge their feelings and tell them that you are there to support them. Your role as a parent is primarily to give support whenever they need it, not someone who tells them what they should or shouldn’t feel.
  • Ask questions
    Ask questions about why they feel that way, what makes them feel that way, and of course, how you could help. Asking questions would also encourage them to open up to you more. This also allows you to be able to understand them more. Empathize, not sympathize. Try to put yourself in their shoes. This, however, should be only up to the extent that they’re willing to share. If they feel adamant in answering your questions, pull back and respect them instead.
  • Be proactive when it comes to intervention
    Communicate with kindness, not criticism nor disappointment. Show affection and talk through the problems with them. Get to the heart of the issue. Spend as much time with them as possible, but only if your child is comfortable with that arrangement. If they like space, give them that too.
  • Give them reassurance
    Anxiety stems from the fear of the unknown. So if you have something to tell them, go ahead and communicate. But do so with kindness and understanding at all times. Re-evaluate your expectations, or hear them out more often. Listen to understand, not to answer.

Being a parent is said to be one of the toughest jobs in the world. It might not be easy to deal with this issue, but with the proper guidance, you can come out of a difficult situation with positivity and hope. Our teen anxiety treatment in Los Angeles, California includes interventions that are suited to the needs of every individual. If you know someone who could benefit from our services, don’t hesitate to call 888-248-1278.

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