by V. Z. Marcus

Created on: September 24, 2009   Last Updated: September 25, 2009

Are you a parent who has noticed that your teen is overly stressed out? It's true that adolescence can produce a variety of obstacles to overcome, stress being one of them. It's also true that stress can be potentially troublesome, especially if it is left to build up, leading to a whole host of other problems, both physically and mentally. As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure the good health and well being of your teen, and this includes making sure that stress doesn't take hold of them.

Luckily, there are three simple steps that you can take as a parent to start reducing the amount of stress that your teen is experiencing, and they are easier than you might think. Keep in mind that although some stress is a fact of life that will always be present, there are some stressors that can and should be controlled. Here are the steps that you can take to help your teen start controlling stress today:

*Observe. Take note of what your teen does from day to day. Observe their schedule and how it is affecting them, and if there might be something happening that would contribute to an increase in stress. Your teen might be experiencing a heavy load at school with sports and homework, or pressure from their peers. You might choose to have others assist you in this, talking with teachers and friends to get a better idea of what might be the cause of your teen's level of stress. It's important that you have an idea of what is causing the stress before you can begin to help your teen reduce it.

*Discuss. Talking to your teen is one of the best ways to get to the core of the problem. By talking to your teen, you not only allow them to vent any built up stress they might have incurred, but you can identify the sources of the stress which will aid you in reducing it. Ask them questions like, "Is there anything in your life that you feel is overwhelming you?" and "Is there anything that I can do to help you with these things?" In doing this, you stand a greater chance of really knowing what is happening with your teen, so that you are better equipped in assisting them.

*Intervene. Once you have identified some of the things that are causing your teen's stress and have talked with them in detail about them, you can begin to take action in reducing it. Some stressors have a relatively simple solution, while others may take time to fully address. One example is the stress that your teen might encounter with the amount of activities that they have undertaken. Your teen might be involved in one too many clubs or after school events, you can help your teen by offering assistance in managing this schedule. You can take them out to their favorite restaurant or go on little trips to help get their mind off things for awhile. Have family activities like a movie night, or let your teen invite friends over for a relaxing evening at home. Whatever it takes to get their mind in a healthier place.

Remember, it's your responsibility as a parent to make sure that your teen is happy and healthy. Stress doesn't have to play a major role in their lives and anything you can do to reduce it will help to secure them a bright future. Be proud of your role as a parent and don't be afraid to take action!

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