There are times when we have choices, but we feel like we have to stick with it, deal with it, stay committed, take it, or whatever. Like we are doing the “moral,” “right,” strong, admirable, or brave thing by sticking with it.
This project of exploring and playing with gender is not new. It is not a trend that the teenagers of today are opting into because all their friends are doing it.
These have been emotional, trying, intense, confusing, and uncertain times. There is a lot to navigate right now-- individually and collectively. Thus, I wanted to offer just *some* of the resources available to teens and young adults during this global crisis.
When (not if) you make a “mistake,” you have an “opportunity to repair” the connection with your teenager.
It’s critical for teen and young adult patients to grow in their capacity to advocate for themselves and work towards handling their healthcare independently.
Limits don’t negate choices. Limits aren’t consequences or punishment. Instead, limits help young people understand boundaries-- their own and other people’s.
The truth is, dreams come from one’s internal compass, not from external sources, pressures, or societal norms and expectations. Furthermore, teenagers need space to explore, reflect, experience, and process and come to their own truths, their own path.
Spiritual practice can be a loaded topic. For some, it refers to cherished and meaningful beliefs and practices, while for others, it’s at best an empty cliché, and at worst it represents the oppression of religious extremism.
When (not if) your teen presents an undesirable behavior or seems "shut down", you have an opportunity to ASK about it, rather than telling them about (aka lecturing them).
As you consider your experience with change and prepare for continued transition and evolution, these 10 tips will help you embrace the changes in your past, present, and future!