Want to bring relief to a stressed out teen? Let them know that it’s fine to not know their purpose in life. Teens become overwhelmed when they think they have to have everything figured out from the start, such as knowing their college major while they’re still in high school or their career plans on the first day of college. Slow down. Instead of rushing teens along, support and guide them as they figure out their next steps. Let them know their key strengths so they can use them as they plan and give them space to explore.

Read more from the Center for Parent & Teen Communication here.

Tip: It is the healthy teams that have a better chance for success

Be a leader and make your own choices. Set an example to your peers and choose to surround yourself with those making healthy choices. Show your leadership by choosing not to use drugs or alcohol.

SAMHSA encourages parents to talk with their college-bound young adults about alcohol use. If you are a parent, a high school or college administrator, or an organization serving parents and teens, please download these free materials and share them with other caring adults.

Tip: Train your mind like you train your body. Visualize the outcome you want.

Clear your mind and visualize your goal, breathe and refocus. Do this often and your brain will recall your goal faster and in more detail.

What are synthetic cannabinoids? Have you ever heard your child refer to K2 or Spice? This video was created to share with younger students to exhibit the impact of synthetic cannabinoids.

Tip: Choose not to use marijuana as it impacts your health, safety and potential for academic and athletic success.

THC (the chemical in marijuana) builds up in the brain and affects the skill recall area of the brain and delays reaction time. Marijuana compromises judgment and affects many other skills necessary to be a proficient athlete. These skills include alertness, concentration, coordination and reaction time.

Resilience is about bouncing back from challenges and recovering from setbacks. Although we’d like to protect our children from what might hurt them, we don’t always have that option. The best we can do is prepare them to handle life even when it gets tough. How to help your teens with resilience, learn more in the article from the Center for Parent and Teen Communication in the article below!

– Actions and Words Work Together

– Words Express How We Think

– What to Say (and Avoid) to Build Teen Resilience

Click here to read the full article.