These kinds of shifts reflect shifts that go in the right direction of how boundaries evolve with children as they grow. John Townsend discusses these new kinds of dynamics and how to navigate them in his book, Boundaries With Teens.
Elizabeth says, “We aren’t solving their problems…We’re waiting and ready to be there: on the phone, in the stands, in the car. And sometimes…” this mother sleeps on teenage daughter’s bedroom floor.
It’s not easy for parents to make this healthy adjustment, however, especially considering the level of anxiety that teens experience today. Elizabeth knows this, and encourages parents to avoid shame when their children experience anxiety. She offers advice on her blog about this topic, as well.
As Elizabeth demonstrates, parenting a teenage with anxiety doesn’t means swooping in to fix it. Teens can most benefit from parents who encourage their teens to cope with it in positive ways and to practice ongoing self-care. Self-care includes getting exercise, eating healthy, drinking enough water, limiting caffeine and sugar, spending time outside and in nature, sleep, and so on. It can also include grounding techniques, such as the classic 4-count breathing.
But when these don’t work for teens, Elizabeth demonstrated a mother sleeps on teenage daughter’s bedroom floor, or something of the kind. For some spiritual input, parents might want to share helpful verses with their teens.
Verses About Anxiety
“say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” Isaiah 35:4
“but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God [a] ; believe also in me.” John 14:1
Are you a mother of a teenager? Share what you’ve done to care for your teen in this new stage of life!
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