At Your Wits’ End? How to Help a Teen in Crisis
“I am exhausted.”
“I’ve had enough.”
“I can’t take it anymore.”
“I don’t know what more I can do.”
As parents, we've all felt these sentiments more than once. However, for some, their child's behaviors are so extreme, so frequent, so harmful that these thoughts can’t be ignored.
So, what should parents do when a child’s behavior becomes dangerous and unsustainable? Something must be done. But what?
Seeking professional help is essential. We have been assisting families for over 30 years. Here’s the practical framework we usually recommend:
Don’t wait. Take action now. Crossing your fingers that “things will be better tomorrow” is unlikely to improve the situation and may even make things worse. There is no benefit in delaying help for a difficult teen.
Identify the root cause of the behavior. Rage, disrespect, and substance abuse are likely signs of underlying issues. Solutions come from understanding what drives these actions.
Schedule neuropsychological testing. If you haven’t done so already, we highly recommend getting private testing conducted by a neuropsychologist.
Be aware of triggers. If possible, note what you observe, such as time of day, specific situations, and particular people. If you notice a pattern, record it for your professionals.
Coordinate professionals. Prioritize accessible, immediate, and sustainable interventions, including regular therapy appointments, collaboration with school, and a meeting with a therapeutic and educational consultant. Helping a troubled teen can take a village.
Maintain vigilance. Monitor your teen’s friends, activities, and internet use. Limit their idle time and access to money.
The Aspire Group can assist you with referrals to skilled, competent, and suitable professionals. We will help you coordinate services and understand and apply what you've learned. Most importantly, we will support you in caring for yourself and gaining confidence in your decisions.