The stereotypical scenes on family sitcoms where the teen has a rebellious attitude, rolls their eyes, may abuse substances, and slams the door, are done for the laughs of those watching the show. Although this is an accurate depiction, parents who experience these things with their teenagers are not laughing. Bitter outbursts, unpredictable mood swings, and frequent battles about everything from school to friends to clothes to who will set the table can leave parents feeling like they’re walking on eggshells.
As humans, we experience a multitude of emotions for many reasons.
As adults, we have learned through different situations how to communicate our needs and sift through those emotions. However, children are still developing the specific skills needed to help them regulate their emotions. It can be challenging for teenagers to understand and effectively express their feelings to others, especially their parents. With all of the physical and mental changes they are undergoing during this stage in life, the emotional aspect of the journey becomes much more challenging.
Why is my teen angry?
This stage of their lives is already difficult to navigate, and once you throw in everything that has happened in the world recently, honestly, they have many reasons to be angry. The pandemic disrupted many things for teenagers. They could not socialize in schools, hang out, attend events, or even date. Instead, they spent countless hours in front of a screen and cooped up with their family. Most of them have not had a typical teenage experience since then. Add to that the stress and anxiety they are filled with while considering their futures and coming into adulthood.
Understanding the development of the teenage brain is also essential. The parts of their brain that connect to their emotions develop first, but the part of the brain related to logical thinking develops last. The brain’s rational part grows rapidly during adolescence but will fully develop in their mid-late 20s. This concept is crucial to consider because it explains the erratic behavior of teenagers.
How can I help my teen with anger management?
We all understand that anger is a powerful emotion. When anger management issues are not under control it causes one to act entirely out of character. We may do or say regrettable things in the heat of the moment, and upon reflection, we realize that those things were wrong.
It is easy for parents to forget that they have experienced many of the same things as their teens, but navigating through such tricky territory can still feel overwhelming. When addressing your angry teenager, you should first try to understand why they are upset. The most compelling way to do that is to listen to them. Please provide them with a space to express what is happening. I know it is instinctive to want to give advice or save them from their anguish, but being a listener allows them to navigate through their emotions and aids in working to solve their problems.
The benefits of seeking therapy for your teen
Another way you could help is to look for a therapist specializing in counseling teens. Teen counseling is considered a therapeutic approach. A licensed therapist allows your teen to openly communicate their feelings, identify and solve problems, and develop healthy coping techniques. Remember that teens are often more open to receiving assistance from others when they have a space to work through their issues. In addition, therapy for teenagers offers different opportunities to release teenagers frustration and anger. The counselors tailor their therapy sessions to your teen’s needs and what will successfully help them. The sessions would either be one-on-one or group counseling.
Things to consider
Being a teenager is hard, and this is a pivotal point in their lives. Remember that teens will continue to grow, change, mature, and even understand how to communicate their frustrations. It may seem overwhelming, and that’s because it can be, but you should continue to provide a space for them to shift.
Keep an open mind when thinking of alternative ways to provide support, and don’t feel like you are a terrible parent because you decided to seek a counselor or therapist for your teen.
Begin Therapy for Teenagers in Huntsville, AL
If you decide that you are interested in finding an experienced counselor to assist you and your teen as you navigate through this part of their lives, Aspire Counseling & Consulting Services is a great place to start. It takes a village and our team of therapists would be happy to offer support from our Huntsville, AL-based practice. Start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
- Contact Aspire Counseling
- Meet with a caring counselor for teens
- Start addressing your teen’s behavioral concerns.
Other Services Offered With Aspire Counseling
Therapy for teenagers isn’t the only service offered at our Huntsville, AL-based practice. Our team is happy to offer multiple services in support of your mental health. Other services offered include marriage and couples counseling, individual counseling, anger management therapy, anger management classes, and depression therapy. We also offer support with continuing education, overcoming eating disorders, and offer online clinical supervision for social workers. Please feel free to visit our blog or FAQ for more helpful info! If you need more information about our rates, accepted insurance, and services or are ready to begin counseling services, please do not hesitate to call or visit our blog for more information.
