Adolescence is one of the most challenging stages for parents, as children undergo significant physical, psychological, and emotional changes. Statistics indicate that 60% of teenagers experience difficulties communicating with their parents. The key question becomes: how can families effectively respond to the changes their children experience during adolescence?
Dr. Hussein Al-Fayed, Professor of Child Psychiatry, explains how to navigate these changes effectively, recognize warning signs, and highlights the mother’s role through practical advice.
Adolescent Changes
Adolescence presents an opportunity for mothers to build stronger bonds with their teenagers by understanding hormonal fluctuations and physical, psychological, and emotional transformations, and providing tools for healthy development.
Physical Changes
Physical growth is one of the most noticeable aspects of adolescence, including rapid increases in height and muscle mass, as well as hormonal changes affecting activity levels. To support this:
Provide nutritional support: Ensure a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid fast food. Encourage 60 minutes of daily physical activity and regular sleep.
Varied meals: Include protein, complex carbohydrates (whole grains), healthy fats, colorful fruits and vegetables, and calcium-rich foods like dairy for bone growth.
Do not skip breakfast: Include eggs and whole grains, minimize sugary drinks, and drink enough water.
Encourage physical activity: At least 60 minutes daily, from moderate to vigorous, including sports or activities matching their interests.
Accept physical changes: Avoid negative comments about their bodies.
Psychological and Mental Changes
Teenagers may become more sensitive and seek their own identity. Parents can help by:
Listening without judgment: Allow teens to express feelings and thoughts safely.
Encouraging independence: Give them space to make decisions while providing guidance. Be patient with mood swings.
Maintaining sleep routines: Turn off screens one hour before bed. Use walks or shared hobbies to manage stress.
Healthy screen use: Apply the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Emotional Changes
Adolescents learn to handle complex emotions like love, anger, or frustration. Parents can support them by:
Talking about emotions: Teach healthy expression of feelings.
Being a positive role model: Show wise ways to handle emotional situations.
Discussing relationships: Help teens understand healthy boundaries in friendships and romantic relationships.
Warning Signs of Serious Problems
Certain behaviors may indicate issues requiring professional help:
Sudden or persistent social withdrawal
Significant changes in sleep or appetite
Excessive aggression or deep sadness
Declining academic performance or loss of interest in favorite activities
If any of these appear, consult a mental health professional promptly.
Practical Strategies for Mothers
Daily communication: Even brief conversations strengthen the bond.
Educate yourself: Learn about adolescent changes to understand your child better.
Join support groups: Sharing experiences with other mothers can offer new insights.
Effective communication: Listen actively, understand their perspective, and allow them to express themselves freely.
Set clear boundaries with flexibility: Enforce rules consistently, but allow for mistakes and learning opportunities.
Encourage positive behaviors: Use praise, recognition, or non-material rewards to reinforce good habits.
Seek professional help if needed: Some behavioral issues, such as rebellion, depression, or anxiety, may require guidance from psychologists or counselors.
Adolescence may be challenging, but with understanding, communication, and guidance, parents can help their children navigate this stage healthily, while strengthening trust, independence, and resilience.
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