Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Why are so many kids hurting themselves?


10 things… You Should Know About Teens & Tweens
Harmful Behaviors
The Big behaviors I see or hear about often…
-       Self-Mutilation: Cutting, burning, etc.
o   Cutting & Burning were the highest Harmful Behavior in Teens in Youth Group in Washington County in 2009 (right at 30% of “churched” teens)
-       Disorders: Eating, OCD, Bipolar, Depression, etc.
o   Don’t over react but get professional help… See Resources: Phone Numbers
-       Suicide
o   QPR Training (Don’t be afraid to ask… You’re not bringing it into their mind)
§  Question… the person about suicide
§  Persuade… the person to get help
§  Refer… the person to the appropriate resource
*Also Drugs & Sex are very harmful behaviors used to cope…covered previously

The Big questions Teens & Tweens ask…
-       Who am I??
-       I don’t like who I am…I need to fit in!!
-       What does this all mean…where can I get answers??

What can we do… www.parenting.org
-       Don’t…
o   React with anger. 
o   Go into denial about the problem. 
o   Assume this is a "phase" your teen will outgrow. 
o   Say "What did I do wrong as a mother (father) for you to do this to yourself." 
o   Ask "Why are you doing this to yourself?" 
-       Do…
o   Admit you and your child needs help. 
o   LISTEN!!!
o   Take problems very seriously. (Cutting: is not just attention-seeking behavior)
o   Be completely supportive. 
o   Discuss and seek out treatment for you and your child

Here's a couple websites that are helpful for Teens:
-       www.twloha.com
-       www.fox.com/pause
-       www.teenshealth.org

Feeling crazy!?  Here's a couple movies that will give you a glimpse into their world:
    



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