Gloomy global news, restricted budgets, and a long way to go until summer; it’s no wonder parents are feeling stressed. But teens are feeling the strain, too, and have additional stressors to face each day, including the burdens of achieving academic success, the rush of hormones, and the pressure to fit in.
It is important to talk to your teens and provide proper guidance to help them avoid the pitfalls of stress which may, in some cases, lead to drug and/or alcohol abuse as a way to escape. Monitor your teen’s behavior and become familiar with issues like depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other harmful changes that might indicate your teen is unable to deal with stress in a healthy way.
Get expert advice on helping your teen cope with stress.
"But mom, you don’t understand!"
Teens sometimes feel that no one understands what they are going through. Although the pressures teens face today are very different from those faced 20 years ago, parents can still be instrumental in the solution. Demonstrate your interest in communicating with your kids, respect their point-of-view, and provide tips on how to manage everyday pressures.
Take an active role and learn more about "What Parents Can Do." | 
