We all remember our first love and how it felt to be with that special someone. We also remember how it felt as if the world was coming to an end when we lost that relationship. Teens are still developing not just physically but also emotionally. As awkward and gangly as they are on the outside there is just as much changing on the inside.
They feel these new emotions at a higher intensity than we as adults. Just as we are concerned about their physical health during these formative years we must not neglect their emotional health.
The heartbreak associated with a breakup will usually be remedied by lots of hugs and a supportive reassuring sit down. It's a scary time for parents who may fear their child is having an emotional breakdown. But this is actually a healthy response in teens as they are expelling that pain rather than internalizing it.
Cause for concern may result when the teen becomes withdrawn and quiet and remains in this despondent state for months. This can no longer be taken lightly and without attention could advance into clinical depression. In the short term, the teen could begin to have thoughts of suicide. Worst case scenario is when they act upon these thoughts. Even an attempted suicide is devastating to the teen's feelings of self worth. The long term effects of depression can extend into the teen's adulthood affecting future relationships. As parents, you need to know the signs and step in to break the cycle.
As mentioned, if the teen becomes quiet and withdrawn and remains in this state without change for a solid month after the breakup, this is a sign you need to step in and possibly consider counseling. Considering the teen may attempt to conceal the depression, the first signs a parent may see are dropping grades, loss of interest in activities, loss of appetite and increased aggression. Drug and alcohol use may become an issue as the teen attempts to self medicate the emotional pain.
As parents you can prevent this cycle very easily before it even starts and even before the potential breakup. Once you notice the teen has been in the relationship exclusively for an extended period of time such as a year or more is the proper time for a discussion. By simply having a discussion with the teen, the parent plays devil's advocate and asks the teen to consider what would happen if the relationship ended.
It may seem simplistic but you have to realize the teen may not have even considered a breakup as a possibility. By talking to your teen about the possibility you have planted a seed that will reduce the shock of the breakup later as the teen begins to mentally prepare for the worst case scenario on a subconscious level.
Love and support is always the best remedy to heartbreak. The pain our children feel should never be ignored or taken lightly. Pure gold is more valuable than that which has been diluted and our children's emotions will never be purer than when they are in their teens.
Sources/Resources
Previously Posted on FullofKnowlege.com
No comments:
Post a Comment