Dealing with a teenager’s mood swings can be exhausting and challenging. It’s not unusual for teens’ moods to shift quickly and for their emotional responses to be strong. A common question for parents is, “How to deal with a moody teenager?”
Mood swings are a natural part of growing up and there are ways to help your teen work through them. As a parent, we are all too familiar with these feelings of ups and downs — we have been there. It’s important to realize this can be normal for your teenager too.
Stay calm, and talk about it
It may seem difficult at the time, however calmly encourage your teen to try to identify what is causing them to have these negative feelings. Point out that if they don’t know why they’re sad or angry, it’s okay and the feeling will pass. Let them know that they are not alone, and that this happens to most people.
Learning coping skills
Learning coping skills to deal with emotions is imperative as we all get older. Over the years, we learn what triggers our anger or sadness and figure out ways to control it that so we can function. Teens don’t know how to do that yet. It is something they need to learn.
When the situation is calm, role play through a few scenarios. Show them how to count back from 10 until they calm down or the positive effects that going for a walk or listening to music can have. Model these healthy behaviors when you are in a bad mood. It is not only good for your own health but sets an example for your teen.
Give them space
It’s okay to give your teen a little space to cool down. If they need a good cry or to pace around their room with the door closed, give them the privacy to do it. Offer comfort and let your teen know you are there if they need to talk.
Find healthy interests or hobbies
By encouraging your teen to get involved in hobbies or activities that interest them, it can help them take their mind of their stress and sadness. Hobbies can help your teen’s mood stay on an even keel and teach them coping skills and resilience and channel negative energy into something positive.
Anything can become a hobby and it may be something they enjoy for a lifetime.
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