When an emergency occurs mid-air, conventional advice states that we should put on our oxygen masks first before we try to help others. But when a crisis hits, the chances are high that you’ll forget this guideline because you can’t afford to find that lifeline for yourself, especially if you have a minor looking to you for help.
As a parent, it can be difficult to set aside your feelings and navigate through the chaos to provide the support your teen needs. But by staying grounded, you can help your teen find their way through a traumatic event, mental health struggles, or personal loss.
Here are five ways parents can support their teens in crisis recovery.
Acknowledge the Crisis
Acknowledge the gravity of the crisis and let them know their feelings are valid. You might not understand them right now, but this isn’t the time to scold them or demand a particular reaction.
Teens may withdraw, become angry, or act out because of their emotions. Being a safe space for them lays the foundation for healing and makes it easier for the teen to come to you for reassurance anytime they need to. Actively listen without judgment to make them feel supported. In times of crisis, validation can be incredibly powerful.
Consult Mental Health Professionals
There is a reason why doctors aren’t allowed to treat their family members. This guideline also applies to parents.
Sometimes, you need professional help, a fresh pair of eyes, and an unbiased opinion can be what you need to help your teen. For example, a mental health professional can offer expertise in trauma recovery and provide your teen with coping mechanisms tailored to their needs.
“How do I know when to get my teen professional help?” You know your child best, and when they start displaying signs of emotional instability, such as persistent sadness, irritability, or withdrawal from daily activities, then it might just be time to call in the professionals.
Getting professional help for your teen could be what the doctor ordered because it can help them constructively navigate their emotions, thus leading to quicker recovery.
Create a Routine and Encourage Healthy Habits
During a crisis, the structure and routine a teen once relied on might break down. Parents can help by restoring some sense of normalcy through routine. Establishing a healthy daily structure helps teens regain a modicum of control over their lives.
Encourage regular sleeping patterns, balanced meals, and physical activity. Push them to focus on hobbies or activities that bring them joy. Returning to something they enjoy can provide a sense of purpose and a temporary distraction from their emotional struggles.
Know When to Seek Specialized Help for Trauma
Even though we’ve emphasized the importance of seeking professional help, some parents may have reservations about having their teen open up to strangers. This is understandable because such conversations are deeply personal. However, crises are not always the same; some may require specialized support.
If your teen has experienced a severe traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one, bullying, or abuse, it’s vital to seek trauma-informed care.
For example, what do you do when dealing with a suicide or a suicide attempt at home? Who deals with the aftermath of such a gruesome event? That could be an unfamiliar territory that most parents don’t know how to handle.
That is why it is important to seek help from professionals like suicide cleanup or trauma scene management experts. These professionals help parents navigate the cleanup process to ensure the home environment is conducive to healing after a traumatic event.
Be Patient and Avoid Setting Unrealistic Expectations
Recovering from an emotional or psychological trauma takes time. It’s easy to expect quick progress, especially when you want your teen to return to their old self as soon as possible. However, the journey to recovery can be long and full of ups and downs.
Be patient and understanding of their pace. Avoid pressuring your teen to “move on” too quickly or to return to their pre-crisis state. The healing process varies for everyone, and it’s important that your teen feels supported no matter how long the process takes.
Conclusion
Having the right strategies can help your teen navigate their emotional recovery. And remember, seeking professional help when necessary ensures your teen gets guidance in a safe, supportive environment throughout their journey.
Also read:
How to Find Help for Teen Mental Health
How Bullying Impacts Teenage Mental Health
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