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Communicating with Your Teen: When to Be Concerned and How to Get Help

Talking to your teen might sometimes feel like chatting with someone from a different planet.

You ask simple questions and get one-word answers. Or worse, you get that all-too-familiar eye roll… But it’s super important to keep trying. Good talks with your teen can help them grow, understand themselves better, and feel loved.

Let’s explore how to break down those communication walls.

The Importance of Effective Communication with Your Teen

Why is it so important to talk with your teen? It’s all about connection. When you chat openly, you show your teen they’re valued and understood.

It’s like building a bridge between your hearts. This connection makes your teen feel safe to share their worries and dreams with you. It also sets the stage for guiding them through tough times and decisions.

A strong bond now paves the way for a close relationship in the future.

The Negative Impact of Communication

On the flip side, it can really hurt when the conversations get negative and even hostile. Negative words, yelling, or simply not talking at all can make your teen feel alone or misunderstood.

They might start keeping secrets or making not-so-great choices because they think you won’t understand or care. This distance can grow, making it harder for you to connect and solve problems together.

It’s crucial to keep things positive and open, even when it’s tough.

Best Ways to Communicate with Your Teen

Listen More, Talk Less

Give your teen your full attention. Show you’re listening by nodding and acknowledging what they have to say.

Avoid Judgement

Keep an open mind. Ask questions that encourage your teen to share more about their feelings and thoughts. Keep yourself from judging their actions and focus on their good deeds instead.

Choose the Right Moment

Find times when your teen seems more open to chatting, like during a car ride or while helping out with dinner.

Stay Calm

Even if the conversation gets intense, keep your cool. This shows your teen it’s okay to talk about hard stuff with a level head.

Be Genuine

Show real interest in what they have to say. It’s not just about the words but showing you care about their world and what’s happening in it.

Use Encouragement

Praise their efforts to communicate. Let them know you’re proud when they share with you.

Teen Slang and Communication

Ever heard your teen talk and felt like they were speaking another language? That’s teen slang for you.

It’s how some teens bond with their friends. But it can also make us feel left out as parents and guardians. While it’s cool to know what they’re saying, don’t try too hard to use their words. It can come off as trying too hard.

Instead, ask them what certain words mean. It shows you’re interested without stepping into their space. This way, slang becomes a bridge, not a barrier.

View Our Guide to Teen Slang

When to Be Concerned About Your Teen’s Communication
and How to Get Help

It’s normal for teens to want more privacy but there are signs that something more serious might be going on. If your teen stops talking about their day, seems down, or gets super secretive, it’s time to pay attention.

Other red flags include big changes in their friend group or not wanting to do things they used to love. These could be signs they’re dealing with something big and don’t know how to tell you.

If you’re worried about your teen, it’s okay to ask for help. Starting a deep conversation can feel difficult. That’s where professionals come in.

School counselors, therapists, or family doctors can offer support. They can help your teen open up about what’s bothering them. Reaching out for help shows you care. It’s about giving your teen the support they need to feel better.

Together Towards a Brighter Tomorrow

Communicating with your teen isn’t always easy but it’s worth the effort. Understanding their world keeps that important connection strong. And if you ever feel like something’s off, don’t wait to get help.

There are lots of resources and professionals ready to support you and your teen. At Aurora Behavioral Healthcare – Charter Oak, we’re here to guide you through these challenging but rewarding years. Get in touch with us today!