Ask for Help
MEDICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH UPDATE
Without school or readily available summer jobs, kids are on the LOOSE more than ever these days (and perhaps for a lot longer). And while some freedom is of course healthy (and overdue for many typically overscheduled adolescents), too much choice can be overwhelming, stressful, and emotionally challenging for teens. Like adults, youngsters need structure, routine, calm, and safe spaces to help regulate emotions, even if they don’t know it.
If you are anything like me as a parent, it’s a delicate balance between protecting your kids and setting them free. Intellectually you know that failure is the birthplace of self-awareness, growth, and grit, but it’s still painful to watch your child struggle—particularly when it comes to emotional challenges. But I take comfort in knowing that there are people like Paula Anderson in the world. Paula reminds us in her guest post today that it takes a village to raise a child, that outside help is available (and necessary) for many kids struggling with stress or other emotional issues, and that parenting is not for wimps!!! If I teach my kids one lesson about facing mental health challenges it’s this: ask for help; it’s a sign of strength. Here is Paula’s important insight on college students and their mental health during the pandemic: