Right now, so many adolescents and teens who I see in my practice are spending an enormous amount of time online and on social media. I worry about the impact on their mental health, but also know that for some it’s the best way to stay connected with their friends during COVID. This week’s blog provides some recommendations about what we can do to help our kids stay healthy online.
If your teen or young adult appears to be having an extreme and prolonged stress reaction to life changes associated with COVID-19, if their behaviors and emotions are making it difficult for them to get through the day, it may be an indication that they are struggling with an adjustment disorder. This week’s blog covers what to look for and how to get help.
Walk-and-talk therapy can be an extremely helpful treatment approach for someone who has trouble opening up in a traditional therapy session. Fresh air and exercise often lessen anxiety and facilitate open communication. But it’s not for everyone. Give me a call to discuss whether it’s a good fit for you.
Underage drinking is a slippery slope because young brains are more susceptible to addiction. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has created the perfect storm for young adults and teens who are at higher risk for alcohol use when they are bored, anxious or spending too much time online.
For the estimated 20 percent of kids with mental health issues in the United States, the start of school can be extremely difficult during a normal year. Now, add the COVID-19 pandemic, and the uncertainty we all feel, and you know that there will be a lot of kids struggling in the coming weeks. In this blog, I share recommendations for how to ease your child’s distress.
Ask me about Motivational Interviewing. It is an evidence-based counseling approach that I have found to be extremely effective with clients who need to make changes in their behaviors or life, but have struggled to move forward.
