For All Things Tweens and Teens in December, let’s take a look at two very common problems that pop up when your children become teenagers (or even beforehand); Acne and anger.
Acne and Anger
Battling Acne
Acne is a very normal part of adolescence that nearly all teens experience. It can appear as whiteheads, blackheads, papules and cysts. While it can be unsightly or frustrating, acne isn’t a serious health risk, but has the potential to damage self-esteem.
The exact cause of acne is unknown, but the swirling tornado of hormones teens experience during puberty can play a role. They can get worse through picking or squeezing the blemishes, harsh scrubbing, changing hormone levels and stress. While pimples go away on their own, a few home remedies might help them clear up such as apple cider vinegar, spot treatments with tea tree oil or witch hazel. Please remember what works for some may not work for others.
Teenage Anger
Adolescence can stir up a whirlwind of emotions – including anger. When your teenager is angry and screaming at you, you may feel tempted to scream louder in order to “win” the argument so you don’t let your child “walk all over you” – but this can escalate the argument. Your teen’s brain is still developing, and they are probably feeling just as distressed as you.
When your teen is angry, try not to threaten them with consequences (“if you don’t stop, I’m taking your phone away”), don’t try to control them and don’t curse or call them names. Instead, pick your battles and consider walking away, challenge your child’s thinking carefully (“I know you want to go out with your friends, but if you talk to me like that, you’re not going to get what you want”) and use a calm and neutral tone.
