Help Your Teen Choose Healthy Relationships!

Healthy relationships play a critical role in an individual’s life, and teenagers are no exception. They have a profound effect on our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. According to research, social support is critical for maintaining physical and psychological health. 

Top five benefits of healthy relationships for teenagers include:

1. Emotional Support: Healthy relationships provide a safe space where teens feel heard, empathized with, and validated.
2. Reduced Stress: By having healthy outlets for sharing experiences and venting frustrations, stress levels can be significantly decreased.
3. Confidence Boost: Being in a supportive relationship can boost a teenager’s confidence and self-esteem.
4. Develop Vital Skills: Skills such as communication, negotiation, and empathy are often learned and practiced in the context of healthy relationships.
5. Better Mental Well-Being: Healthy relationships help to lower rates of anxiety and depression in teenagers.

Unfortunately, not all relationships that teenagers engage in are healthy. Toxic relationships can be harmful and emotionally draining. ‘Think Like a STAR’ podcast host and top youth motivational speaker, Jesse LeBeau, illuminates this topic in a conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo, a renowned licensed psychologist.

So, how can parents aid their teens who are in toxic relationships?

Here are five ways:

1. Start a Conversation: Address your concerns in a non-judgmental and understanding manner. Make sure your teen knows that they can talk openly about their feelings.
2. Provide Unconditional Support: Reiterate to the teen that you are there for them no matter what, and are willing to help them through their journey.
3. Encourage Reflection: Help your teen identify the signs of a toxic relationship and the impact it can have on their life.
4. Set Boundaries: Teach your teen the importance of setting boundaries to ensure their own physical and emotional wellbeing.
5. Seek Professional Help: If discussions and personal efforts don’t seem to help, don’t hesitate to seek professional support.

A teen life coach can be an incredibly beneficial source of guidance. A teen coaching program can provide your teen with a safe space to share their experiences, fears, and aspirations. Our Teen Coaching Program at The Attitude Advantage offers this specialized guidance.

For more insights and resources, please feel free to visit our Teen Program Page. You can also get involved with our dedicated community on Facebook Group that offers resources and live events. For personalized support and strategies, consider booking a call with us. As parents and guardians, let’s help our teenagers foster healthy relationships that contribute positively to their lives.