How to Empower a Troubled Teen: 5 Proven Steps to Overcome Challenges
October 13, 2023
By Sue Bayley
The exiled teen sits staring, their mind runs WILD trying to understand why they are different.
Some days they like to stand out, other days they wish they were more like everyone else. They feel like they are missing out on opportunities because they don’t know what to say, who to say it to, and why bother, would anybody listen?
Sometimes they grab vodka* as their drug of choice, they know this isn’t an answer, but it will kill the pain for NOW.
They wished someone would understand or even take a moment to notice. They just want to dump the shame and blame game, that everyone around them keeps repeating.
Suddely they remember a chat on WhatsApp with a friend… who had told them about a lady who is like Martin Luther King, who listens to their muddles, troubles, and helps them untangle situations they find themselves in.
Maybe if they found the courage to contact this lady she would help them get their life together?
How would they get over the initial awkwardness ?
They chose to take a risk, the first chat went ok, what if they explained what was holding them back and how awkward they felt?! And how they felt so bad about themselves that they bought more shots*, to numb their bad feelings?!
What if that lady had some tips to tell them? She said she had five steps to helping them find themselves explore opportunities and learn how to make real choices based on their own values, ways of expression, natural skills and that they were not their history. They were so much more.
1. Self-Acceptance:
Embrace your uniqueness. Every person is unique, and that is your superpower. Accept and love yourself, including your imperfections, as it's the first step towards healing and growth.
2. Expression Through Art:
Engage in creative expression. Paint, write, sing, or dance – channel your emotions into art. It’s a powerful way to process feelings and gives a voice to the unspoken.
3. Connect with Like-minded Individuals:
Seek support and connection from people who resonate with your experiences. Sharing stories can make you realize you're not alone and provide comfort.
4. Explore Mindfulness and Meditation:
Practice mindfulness and meditation. It helps manage anxiety and depression, offering a path to explore inner peace and develop a clearer understanding of oneself.
5. Seek Professional Help:
Don’t be afraid to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors are trained to navigate mental and emotional struggles, offering tools and strategies to cope and thrive.
* The above story involves the mention of alcohol. It's essential for the teen to seek professional help to address alcohol or substance abuse, as it is a critical issue that requires expert intervention.
