Building the Foundations for Mentally Healthy Minds
Whoever said that raising teens was easy? There are so many changes during adolescence when there are significant brain developments, teens exploring their identity, seeking independence outside the family unit, all the while experiencing intense emotions. Supporting them to have a healthy mindset is fundamental to their mental health and help builds their resilience so they are able to cope with all of life's experiences and learn to flourish.
On Monday, we were joined by Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Dr Bettina Hohnen, to talk about the building blocks of a healthy mind, how to make sure teens feel psychologically safe, listened to, respected and supported.
Creating a safe space
Bettina talked about creating a secure home environment - somewhere that should serve as a stable base camp where teens can find comfort and support. As they navigate the challenges of growing up, they need to know that they can venture out into the world and return to a place of consistency and safety.
“Children need a secure base in order to feel psychologically healthy... freedom to leave and safety of knowing they can come back. Your role as base camp leader is to be consistent, predictable and to be really nurturing.”
Learning from mistakes
It's natural to want to shield your teen from hardship but, as Bettina explained, struggle is an essential part of development. Encouraging teens to take the lead, face challenges and learn from their experiences (and mistakes!) will help build their self-esteem and develop resilience, a key skill needed as they move into adulthood.
“We have to let them learn through experience. And that means that sometimes they have to fail, they have to make mistakes.”
Addressing Boundary Testing
When teens test limits, Bettina recommends the 3C's - a blend of curiosity, compassion, and courage. When they push the limits (and let's face it, your buttons), try to understand their motivations, empathise with their struggles, and maintain clear boundaries with kindness and firmness. It might not be easy, but this approach will help teens feel secure and respected.
“Parents need to be bigger, stronger, wiser and kind.”
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We’ll be back next Monday 5th February at 8pm with Dr Gemma Allison, Clinical Psychologist, to talk about Ways Parents can help build Self Esteem in Teenagers.