SETTLEMENT
T
he social issues and challenges that our teens and youth face today are very different than what previous generations have ever experienced, according to a recent survey of Canadian teenagers, aged 13 to 18 years old, by Kids Help Phone. Positive development during the teen years is crucial for longterm wellbeing. It is a time when they go through many physical and emotional changes, which are often out of their control. Canadian teenagers are facing challenges such as bullying, body image issues, academic challenges, relationship woes, stress and anxiety, drug use and screen time addictions. From cyberbullying to school and extracurricular pressures, today’s teens’ lives can be much more stressful, overwhelming and confusing than ever before. In fact, 42 per cent of teens say they are stressed out, according to the survey, and many are not particularly optimistic about the future. Combine this with cultural, language and generational differences, and there are additional
teens who did not have anyone to confide in were 200 per cent more likely to experience emotional difficulties. So spend quality time with your teenagers and find some common interests and values. Find out what excites or motivates them — their fears, interests, dreams, goals, talents and beliefs.
| PA R E N T I N G |
The teen years
Finding support
Youth are facing more challenges and stress in today’s world than ever before challenges for immigrant teenagers and their parents as they navigate these difficult years.
How parents can help
As teenagers face this critical period in their development, it is essential for parents to find ways to help and support the teenager in the family. With a lack of parental support, the consequences could be everything from poor school grades or dropping out of school, to depression and anxiety, to to-
bacco and other substance abuse. With proper support and encouragement, children are more likely to be confident and well-adjusted. Staying connected with your teen and maintaining open communication to foster a healthy relationship is perhaps the most important strategy. The Kids Help Phone survey revealed that
As we all know, it takes a village to raise happy and healthy children. If you as a parent feel like you need support with your teenager, look for help from other parents, extended family, sport coaches, school teachers and counsellors, and even community or immigrant services agencies. And, if you feel like your teens need some additional support, tell them about Kids Help Phone (kidshelpphone. ca or toll free at 1-800-668-6868), a free and confidential counselling service for teens via phone or web chat.
Cheryl Song,, an immigrant from Malaysia, has more than 10 years’ experience of working in childhood education and family programs.
A Life of SucceSS…in one YeAr or LeSS
Since 1979
20 canadianimmigrant.ca
November 2015
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