Teen Parenting During the Pandemic
Psychotherapist Amanda Hunt specializes in helping children deal with stress and anxiety. But what happens when the parent is stressed and anxious, too?! In this talk Amanda shares practical insights on how parents can manage their own overwhelming stress during these challenging times and still create an environment in which their teenagers can flourish.
Key insights
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Consistency is key: As a parent, do not be discouraged by teenagers not being open for engagement. Giving your adolescent child the feeling that you always care and are consistently there for them is the most crucial part of the deal.
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It’s natural and human for a parent to feel stressed out in the current circumstances: Ensure you have your own support network (e.g. a partner, friend or family member) to talk with. And find an outlet for your emotions, such as exercise or a creative activity you enjoy.
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It’s all about choice: When demands overwhelm you, ask yourself what action will be most helpful in that particular moment. It may well be a self-caring activity (such as a nap or a healthy meal), even if you think you cannot allow any time for it. This well needed rest can give us the energy needed to carry on and steer the family ship.
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The best communication with adolescents happens organically: It is not something you can plan in advance or force into being. Learn to identify those spontaneous moments when your child is ready and willing to engage, then take advantage of that moment.
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Empower adolescents by showing your own fallibility: Teenagers watch their parents’ every move. Admitting openly that you are stressed, tired or anxious shows them that you are human, too; it sets a good example for them as they move into adulthood and helps them set healthy expectations for themselves.
Dive deeper
Can you do what Martin can?
To help you keep your energy levels high and stay positive throughout your day it is essential to take breaks regularly. To help you get more out of your downtime, Martin Pet, a seasoned sport and performance psychologist and physiologist, will challenge you to perform a wide range of exercises that will do just that.
About the crew member
Amanda Hunt • Psychotherapist
Amanda, LMFT, is an experienced psychotherapist living in Los Angeles, California. Her specialty is working with adolescents and their parents, serving those with learning disabilities, ADHD and other emotional challenges. Primarily using psychodynamic therapy, Amanda believes in empowering her clients by increasing their resilience, exploring their developing identity into young adulthood, and supporting their parents to create or sustain supportive environments in which their children can thrive.
Your journey until now
Teen Parenting During the Pandemic
Psychotherapist Amanda Hunt on supporting parent and teen during the pandemic
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