TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – While summer time brings freedom and a chance for teens to wind down, it also can bring unpredictability that creates a season of struggle.
“They go from a structured, predictable day, routine every day and one of the most challenging things for human beings is that unknown, unpredictability. What do I do with all this extra time?” said Brad Chapin, clinical services director at Topeka’s Stormont Vail Behavioral Health.
Chapin said the unpredictability can turn up the heat for teens already struggling with anxiety, loneliness and depression.
“That predictability adds safety to us,” he said. “When I as a human being know what’s coming next or I have some structure around that, it feels more safe and more comfortable to me.”
Chapin suggests keeping some routine year-round, like a typical bedtime or meal times. Also, don’t sit in the house all day, and schedule face-to-face interactions.
“Fundamentally, human beings need connection,” he said. “We don’t do very well in isolation.”
Teens filling their extra time with increased social media surfing also need to avoid our natural tendency to compare ourselves to others.
“(We need to be) instructing them and teaching them that people often just put their best self out for others to see,” Chapin said.
Chapin says teens often will show signs they’re struggling.
“Watching for changes in our children, watching for changes in mood, appetite, sleep – is a signal,” he said. “But we want to make sure that with our kids that they feel they can talk to us about anything. Summer is a great time to make those connections. Get outside, practice some mindfulness, be present in the moment.”
Chapin also cautions against overscheduling our kids in summer. He said too much activing also can add to stress.
Instead, prioritize self-care and use the extra free time to get professional support, if needed.
You can find a list of mental health resources for people of all ages at wibw.com/HearMeSeeMe.
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