Adolescents

Many people think about seeking therapy for a long time.  They may be unsure about what the process will be like, concerned about others’ judgements, or just apprehensive of the unknown.  Making the decision to seek therapy is a big one!  Congratulations on taking that step.

Once that decision has been made, the next question is, How do I find a therapist?

“Back to School” has always been met with a bit of ambivalence, especially from our young people. This fall “back to school” has a whole new meaning.  And for many families, that meaning is, as yet, unknown.

While we feel the stress as parents, employees, and people, we cannot compare anything we have experienced in our past to what our teens and tweens are going through now. Here are some tips to maintain your own equilibrium.

We have been inside for a month.  The honeymoon is over. Here are some ways that you can provide structure to your days and continue to be social even when you’re home alone.

All relationships can be strained during times of fear and uncertainly – family, friendships, and romantic relationships.

Why are people playing video games while driving? A look at the science behind why video games are so hard to put down.

We are appalled – though sadly, not surprised – that the makers of the Juul e-cigarette device disregarded early evidence that it was hooking teens on its product.

Rapper T.I. is being criticized after recently revealing that he asks his daughter's doctor if her hymen is intact. His behavior, and obsession, over his daughter’s virginity is more than troubling – it also goes against what we stand for at Response for Teens.
 

Congratulations to all the teen participants and adult leaders on another successful Operation Snowball 2019! At the end of February teens from across Chicagoland came together to participate in Operation Snowball, our annual winter teen retreat planned entirely by teens.

Children and teens are spending more and more time playing video games online with their friends. For most, this is a positive experience, allowing them to communicate with others even when they are unable to physically be with them. This is particularly true for people with difficulty spending time with others in-person, like those with major depressive disorder, autism spectrum disorder and social anxiety disorder.  

This unconventional method of communication is helpful in fostering connections while building the skills and confidence necessary to interact face-to-face. Although steps should be taken to ensure children’s safety online, online video games are a large part of the lives of young people and should be recognized as a source of social support.