10 Books for Parents of a Teen Struggling with Mental Health
- Marissa Snider
- Jul 14, 2024
- 3 min read
Have you found yourself in a tough parenting situation? Nobody said the teen years would be easy, but you're still in unchartered territory as the parent of a teen struggling with mental health. It can be a confusing and scary time for you, your child, and your entire family.
Equipping yourself with information is one of the most effective ways that you can help your teen when they are struggling with poor mental health.
To best understand your child's mental health struggle, begin with a thorough understanding of the biological and psychological changes that teens go through. This primer in adolescent brain chemistry by Frances E. Jensen will give you a good foundation for further reading.
Raising a teen girl? Take a proactive approach with Lisa Damour's practical advice for parenting through pivotal developmental moments.
"When Life Hurts: Finding Hope and Healing from the Pain You Carry" by Jimmy Evans offers practical guidance for overcoming life's emotional and psychological wounds. The book integrates personal stories, biblical principles, and therapeutic insights to help readers navigate their pain and find lasting healing. Through its compassionate approach, it aims to provide hope and a path to recovery for those struggling with deep hurts and trauma.
"No Perfect Parents: Ditch Expectations, Embrace Reality, and Discover the One Secret That Will Change Your Parenting" by Dave and Ann Wilson, along with John Driver, encourages parents to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace their imperfections.
The authors share personal anecdotes and practical advice to help parents build stronger relationships with their children. Central to the book is the idea that the key to effective parenting is not perfection but love, grace, and a willingness to grow together as a family.
"Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself" by Melody Beattie offers guidance for individuals struggling with codependency. The book provides insights into recognizing and breaking free from unhealthy patterns of behavior where one's happiness depends on controlling others. Through practical advice, personal stories, and exercises, Beattie empowers readers to prioritize their own well-being and establish healthier relationships.
"Why Christian Kids Rebel: Trading Heartache for Hope" by Tim Kimmel explores the reasons behind the rebellion of children raised in Christian homes. The book delves into various factors, including parental behavior and church culture, that can contribute to a child's defiance. Kimmel offers practical advice and hope-filled strategies for parents to reconnect with their children and guide them back to faith.
"Helping Your Struggling Teenager: A Parenting Handbook on Thirty-Six Common Problems" by Les Parrott III and Leslie Parrott provides practical advice for parents dealing with a wide range of adolescent issues.
The book covers topics such as depression, substance abuse, and academic difficulties, offering insights and strategies to support teens through challenging times. With a compassionate and research-based approach, the Parrott's aim to equip parents with the tools they need to effectively help their teenagers navigate their struggles.
"Your Move: Four Questions to Ask When You Don’t Know What to Do" by Andy Stanley is a practical guide for making wise decisions in uncertain times. Stanley presents four key questions designed to provide clarity and direction: Am I being honest with myself? What story do I want to tell? Is there a tension that deserves my attention? What is the wise thing to do? By addressing these questions, the book helps readers navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and insight.
"How to Talk So Teens Will Listen and Listen So Teens Will Talk" by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish offers practical communication strategies for parents to improve their relationships with their teenagers. The book provides tools for addressing common conflicts, fostering mutual respect, and encouraging open dialogue. Through real-life examples and actionable advice, Faber and Mazlish help parents create a supportive environment where teens feel heard and understood.
"Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys" by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson explores the unique emotional challenges boys face and how societal expectations often suppress their emotional expression.
The authors argue that traditional notions of masculinity can hinder boys' emotional development and offer strategies for parents and educators to nurture their emotional intelligence. Through research and real-life examples, the book advocates for creating environments where boys can express their feelings openly and develop into emotionally healthy adults.
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