Statistically speaking, teenagers who consume drugs or alcohol have elevated odds of developing symptoms of major depression or some other depressive illness. However, researchers don’t fully understand why the connection between depression and substance use exists among people in this age group. In a study published in September 2014 in the journal Drug and Alcohol…
Placing a teen in alcohol or drug rehab is one of the most difficult things a parent will do. While you’re probably relieved that your child is finally getting help, you may also be worried about what the future holds. As a parent, there are actions you can take right now to give your teenager…
Childhood aggression is, to some extent, normal. Kids are still learning how to deal with their emotions, how to interact properly with others and how to use self-control. While they are learning, they might occasionally lash out or respond to people and to their own feelings with aggression or even minor acts of violence, like…
You’ve already sensed that something is not right with your teenager. Maybe she’s become touchy or defensive about her eating habits. Perhaps he’s starting to develop an obsession with maintaining his weight for the wrestling team. Parenting is always hard; however, it can be even tougher when you sense a problem, like an eating disorder,…
Being the target of bullying is a serious problem for many of today’s teens. It can lead to significant emotional pain and trauma, and isn’t something that a teen merely needs to “get over.” The emotional impact of bullying can leave lasting scars. Sadly, some teens turn to alcohol and drugs as a way to…
It behooves society and parents to do anything possible to keep kids off drugs. Preventing teens from trying drugs or from drinking means saving many of them from the disease of addiction, avoiding astronomical costs in health care and legal issues, and saving lives. Educational programs are not uncommon in schools, but their benefits seem…
Obtaining a driver’s license is a major rite of passage for America’s youth. In most states, and with consent of a parent, teens between the ages of 16 and 18 are permitted to apply for a driver’s license. States typically require the teen driver to first undergo a training period with a “learner’s permit”; however…
Often it happens by accident. You’re cleaning up the trail of debris left by your teenaged son or daughter and baggies or plastic-wrapped packages of pills fall out of coats, jackets, jeans, purses, etc. Maybe you’re dusting their bedroom, putting away fresh laundry, or rearranging photos or other items in the room. What you discover…
