The Power of Friendship: Nurturing Supportive Connections

Friendship is one of the most valuable sources of support, understanding, and joy in our lives. For teenagers, the power of friendship is especially profound. Adolescence is a time of self-discovery, emotional growth, and navigating a world of social, academic, and personal challenges. During such times, having supportive, positive friendships can make all the difference in mental health and overall well-being.

In this post, we’ll explore the role of friends in supporting mental health, how teens can create and maintain meaningful friendships, and why friendships are more important than ever, especially during difficult times.

The Role of Friends in Supporting Mental Health

For teens, the importance of strong, supportive friendships cannot be overstated. Friends provide a unique type of emotional support that is different from what family members or counselors can offer. Friendships, when nurtured and positive, allow for an authentic connection based on mutual trust, shared interests, and understanding.

Research has shown that strong friendships during adolescence can help reduce the effects of stress, anxiety, and depression. Friends provide a safe space to express emotions and share challenges without fear of judgment. They can help normalize difficult feelings by offering empathy, validation, and advice.

In times of personal struggle, whether dealing with school pressure, family issues, or mental health challenges, having a friend by your side makes navigating these situations easier. Friendships are a buffer against loneliness and isolation, which can be especially detrimental to mental health. When teens know they have a trusted friend to lean on, they are more resilient in the face of adversity.

The Benefits of Positive Friendships

Not all friendships are created equal. While some friendships may be built on genuine care and mutual respect, others may be toxic or draining. It’s important for teens to understand the difference between friendships that nourish their mental health and those that can harm it.

Positive friendships are based on trust, respect, and empathy. These friends encourage one another’s growth, are supportive during tough times, and celebrate each other’s successes. Here are some key benefits of positive friendships:

1. Emotional Support
   Positive friends listen to each other, offer encouragement, and help you work through difficult emotions. They can act as sounding boards for frustrations and provide advice or simply a comforting presence.
2. A Sense of Belonging
   Friendship helps teens feel connected to a community, reducing feelings of loneliness. When teens have close friends who understand them, they feel like they truly belong, which boosts self-esteem and confidence.
3. Improved Mental Health
   Studies have found that teens with close, supportive friends are less likely to experience mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Strong friendships also promote positive self-worth and better coping strategies for handling stress.
4. Increased Happiness
   Positive friendships lead to increased happiness by providing laughter, shared experiences, and moments of joy. The emotional lift from spending time with friends can significantly enhance a teen’s mood and outlook on life.
5. Healthy Social Skills
   Maintaining healthy friendships helps develop essential social skills like communication, conflict resolution, and empathy. These skills play a key role in all areas of life, including future relationships, workplaces, and community engagement. ROWI’s therapists are UCLA PEERS certified, specializing in empowering children and teens with the tools to make friends, navigate disagreements, and start conversations. PEERS® provides the foundation for success, equipping individuals from all backgrounds with the social skills they need to thrive.

How Parents Can Support Positive Friendships in Their Teens’ Lives

While teens are ultimately responsible for building and maintaining friendships, parents play a crucial role in supporting their children’s social lives. As a parent, you can help foster a positive environment that allows your teen to create and nurture healthy relationships. Here’s how:

1. Encourage Open Communication
   Make sure your teen feels comfortable talking to you about their friends, social experiences, and any struggles they might be facing in their friendships. By encouraging open communication, you’ll gain insight into their social world and be able to offer advice or support when necessary.
2. Model Healthy Relationships
   Teens learn a lot about relationships by observing their parents. Demonstrating respectful communication, empathy, and conflict resolution in your own relationships provides a strong model for how to build and maintain positive friendships.
3. Create Opportunities for Socializing
   Help your teen find opportunities to socialize in a healthy environment. This might include arranging hang out sessions, supporting extracurricular activities, or encouraging participation in community events or volunteer work. By providing these opportunities, you’re helping your teen connect with others who share similar interests.
4. Provide a Safe Space for Friendship
   Having friends over at your home can be a great way for your teen to build stronger bonds. You can create a welcoming environment for their friends, which encourages them to spend more time together in a supportive and comfortable setting.
5. Be Involved Without Overbearing
   While it’s important to stay involved in your teen’s life, it’s also essential to give them space to form their own friendships. Offer guidance when needed but respect their autonomy to make decisions about their social life. Be there to offer advice when your teen seeks it, but avoid being overly controlling.
6. Help Them Navigate Conflict
   Friendships are not always smooth sailing, and conflicts will inevitably arise. When your teen faces difficulties with a friend, help them work through the issue by discussing the situation calmly. Offer advice on how to approach the problem and encourage healthy conflict resolution strategies, such as communication and compromise.
7. Be Supportive of Positive Friendships
   Pay attention to the quality of your teen’s friendships. Encourage them to spend more time with friends who are supportive, kind, and respectful. If you notice a friend who is negatively influencing your teen or contributing to stress, have an open and honest conversation about it. Help your teen understand the importance of choosing friendships that are positive and healthy.
8. Teach Boundaries and Self-Respect
   Teaching your teen about boundaries in friendships is essential for their mental health and well-being. Encourage them to respect their friends’ boundaries and assert their own when needed. Show them that it’s okay to walk away from toxic friendships and that self-respect is key in any relationship.
9. Be a Source of Encouragement
   Remind your teen of the qualities that make them a great friend. Praise them for being empathetic, loyal, and kind. Boost their confidence by reinforcing the importance of their role in their friendships and helping them understand their value in others’ lives.

ROWI’s Summer Program: A Chance to Make Lifelong Friendships

The importance of making meaningful, supportive friendships extends beyond the school year. That’s why ROWI’s Summer Program is designed to help teens unplug, connect with new people, forge deep, lasting friendships, and gain valuable mental health tools in a supportive environment.

Through ROWI’s Summer Program, teens can meet others who share similar interests, engage in team-building activities, and learn how to build healthy relationships. Whether it’s through group workshops, fun activities, or reflective conversations, ROWI fosters an environment where teens can make genuine connections and cultivate friendships that can last long after the summer ends.

Learn More and Register

Adolescent Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): What to Know and How to Help

With shorter days, colder weather, and the absence of sunshine, winter can be a tough season for many teens and can lead to feelings of sadness, lethargy, and isolation. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “winter blues,” can sometimes escalate into a more serious condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If your teen has been feeling unusually down during the colder months, it’s important to take steps to help them navigate this challenging time. Here’s a comprehensive guide to combating the winter blues and SAD, tailored for both teens and their caregivers.

Understanding the Winter Blues and SAD

Teen Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly occurring in the late fall and winter. While anyone can experience SAD, teens may be particularly vulnerable due to hormonal changes, academic pressures, and social dynamics. Symptoms of SAD can include:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Fatigue and low energy levels
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in sleep patterns (either sleeping too much or too little)
• Cravings for carbohydrates and weight gain
• Withdrawal from social activities

If your teen is experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to approach the issue with empathy and understanding. While the winter blues may pass on their own, SAD often requires proactive intervention.

Tips for Teens to Combat the Winter Blues

1. Embrace Natural Light: Spend as much time as possible outside during daylight hours. Even on cloudy days, exposure to natural light can improve mood and energy levels. If it’s too cold to go outside, try sitting near a window to soak in some sunlight.
2. Stay Active: Regular physical activity is a proven mood booster. Try activities like yoga, dancing, or indoor workouts if it’s too chilly to exercise outside. Even a short walk can make a difference.
3. Maintain a Consistent Routine: Having a regular sleep and wake schedule helps regulate the body’s internal clock, which can alleviate symptoms of SAD. Avoid staying up too late and sleeping in excessively on weekends.
4. Focus on Nutrition: A balanced diet can have a significant impact on mood and energy. Aim for meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
5. Stay Connected with Loved Ones: Isolation can worsen feelings of sadness. Make an effort to spend time with friends and family, even if it’s just a virtual hangout. Talking to someone you trust about how you’re feeling can also be incredibly therapeutic.
6. Try a New Hobby: Winter is the perfect time to explore a new interest or skill, like painting, cooking, or learning a musical instrument. Having a creative outlet can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
7. Use a Light Therapy Box: Light therapy boxes mimic natural sunlight and can be a highly effective treatment for SAD. Use one under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe and effective for you.
8. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. Apps like Headspace or Calm can provide guided sessions tailored for teens.

How Parents Can Support Their Teens

As a parent, your role in helping your teen navigate the winter blues is crucial. Here are some strategies to provide the support they need:

1. Recognize the Signs of SAD: Pay attention to changes in your teen’s behavior, mood, and energy levels. If their symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
2. Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for your teen to share their feelings without fear of judgment. Sometimes, just knowing they’re heard and understood can make a world of difference.
3. Model Healthy Habits: Teens often mimic their parents’ behavior. Show them the importance of staying active, eating well, and maintaining a positive outlook, even during the winter months.
4. Plan Activities Together: Engage in fun, mood-boosting activities as a family, like baking, board games, or movie nights. Shared experiences can strengthen bonds and improve everyone’s spirits.
5. Encourage Social Interaction: Help your teen stay connected with their friends by facilitating get-togethers or transportation to social events. Positive peer relationships are vital for their mental health.
6. Introduce Light Therapy Safely: If you’re considering light therapy, consult with a healthcare provider first. Ensure the device is positioned correctly and used consistently to maximize its benefits.
7. Set Realistic Expectations: Winter can be a challenging time, and it’s okay for your teen to have ups and downs. Encourage progress over perfection and celebrate small victories.
8. Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your teen’s symptoms persist despite efforts to manage them, it may be time to consult a counselor, therapist, or doctor. ROWI can work with your teen to provide tailored strategies and, in some cases, medication to help alleviate severe symptoms.

When to Seek Help

While the winter blues can be managed with lifestyle changes, severe cases of SAD may require professional intervention. If your teen experiences:

• Persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• A significant drop in academic performance
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Contact a healthcare professional immediately. Resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) are available 24/7 to provide support. 

ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers is also available to support your teen and family with personalized care. We welcome you to schedule a FREE ASSESSMENT to see if ROWI’s insurance-covered programs are a good fit for your teen. 

The Hidden Struggle: High Achievers and the Pressure of Mental Burnout

In a world that celebrates winners and strives for excellence, high-achievers often become the embodiment of success. Their discipline, dedication, and relentless drive to reach the top are inspiring, yet behind the scenes, many face a silent struggle: the toll that constant pressure and the pursuit of perfection take on their mental health. From Olympic gold medalists to medical school students, the pressure to perform at the highest level can lead to mental burnout, and it’s a challenge that impacts anyone with a high-achieving mindset.

The Drive to Succeed: A Double-Edged Sword

High-achieving athletes are often defined by their unyielding commitment to their sport. They rise before the sun, push their bodies to physical extremes, and practice relentlessly to refine their skills. They make sacrifices, whether it’s missing family events, socializing with friends, or taking time off to recover. This unwavering pursuit of excellence is part of what makes them stand out, but it also comes with risks.

In many cases, the relentless drive to succeed is rooted in a combination of internal and external factors: the desire to win, to prove something to oneself or others, and the need for recognition and validation. For many athletes, success is not just about achieving personal goals—it’s about meeting or exceeding the expectations of coaches, sponsors, fans, and even their families. The fear of failure or not living up to expectations can be overwhelming.

While this drive can fuel success, it can also be a heavy burden. High-achieving individuals—whether athletes, entrepreneurs, or students—often hold themselves to standards that are impossible to meet consistently. The more they accomplish, the more they feel compelled to achieve. As a result, they end up trapped in a cycle of overwork and self-imposed pressure, all while ignoring their mental and emotional needs.

The Pressure to Perform and the Risk of Burnout

Burnout is a term we hear often, but for high-achieving athletes, it takes on a particular urgency. When an athlete is constantly pushing themselves to the limit, mentally and physically, the risk of burnout increases exponentially. It’s not just about feeling tired; burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that can leave a person feeling perpetually drained, disconnected, and even incapable of performing basic tasks.

Many high-performing athletes are under pressure to maintain peak performance year-round. They face intense competition, public scrutiny, and the constant fear of injury or falling short of their goals. In addition to the obvious physical toll of their training regimen, these stressors can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

Some athletes, like tennis star Naomi Osaka, gymnast Simone Biles, and swimmer Michael Phelps, have publicly shared their struggles with mental health. Their stories shed light on the reality that even the most successful, seemingly invincible athletes are not immune to the pressures of fame, success, and perfection. When the pressure becomes too much to bear, it can result in a crisis—where an athlete’s mental health deteriorates, and they may feel the need to step away from the sport entirely.

High Achieving Personalities and Mental Health

Burnout isn’t limited to athletes. It’s a pervasive issue for anyone with a high-achieving personality. Whether in the boardroom, the classroom, or the gym, individuals who push themselves relentlessly to succeed are at risk of burning out.

For many high achievers, there’s a constant feeling of needing to be “on” all the time. They are perfectionists who believe that their value is tied to their accomplishments. They set unrealistic expectations for themselves and work tirelessly to meet them. When setbacks occur, or when they can’t maintain the high standards they’ve set, it can trigger feelings of inadequacy, stress, and anxiety. These feelings, over time, can spiral into a mental health crisis, leading to burnout, depression, or even anxiety disorders.

Signs of Burnout and How to Recognize It

Recognizing burnout in its early stages is key to preventing it from escalating. For athletes and high achievers, common signs of burnout include:

• Chronic Fatigue: Constantly feeling drained, physically and mentally, despite rest.
• Decreased Performance: A noticeable drop in performance or motivation, even though you’re working harder.
• Emotional Numbness: Feeling disconnected or emotionally flat, as if you’re just going through the motions.
• Increased Anxiety: A sense of dread, worry, or panic about upcoming events, deadlines, or tasks.
• Loss of Passion: A complete loss of interest or excitement for the sport or activity that once brought joy.
• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomachaches, or other stress-related ailments.

If these signs are ignored, burnout can escalate into serious mental health issues like depression or anxiety disorders. However, it’s important to note that burnout isn’t inevitable—it can be prevented and managed with the right tools and strategies.

Tips for Avoiding Burnout and Maintaining Mental Health

1. Prioritize Recovery: It’s easy to overlook the importance of rest when you’re focused on success, but recovery—both physical and mental—is critical. This includes taking scheduled breaks, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that recharge you, like spending time with loved ones or enjoying hobbies outside of work or sports.
2. Set Realistic Goals: It’s important to set goals that challenge you but are also achievable. Unrealistically high expectations can set you up for failure and disappointment. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate progress along the way.
3. Practice Self-Compassion: High achievers often struggle with perfectionism and self-criticism. Developing a mindset of self-compassion—where you acknowledge your efforts and accept that failure is part of the process—can reduce feelings of inadequacy and help you maintain a healthier mental state.
4. Find Balance: It’s important to have a balance between work, rest, and personal life. Make time for things that bring joy and relaxation, whether it’s exercising in a non-competitive setting, traveling, or spending time with family and friends.
5. Mindfulness and Stress Management: Practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional well-being. These practices allow you to reconnect with your body and mind, promoting a sense of calm and presence.
6. Seek Support: Whether it’s a therapist, coach, mentor, or loved one, having a support system in place is crucial. Talking through stressors and challenges with someone who can offer guidance and perspective can alleviate pressure and prevent burnout. 

ROWI offers personalized programs to support the mental health of athletes and other high achieving teens.

The pressure to succeed can be overwhelming for high-achieving athletes and individuals in any field. While this drive often leads to impressive accomplishments, it can also result in mental burnout if not managed properly. Recognizing the signs of burnout early, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing mental and emotional well-being are key to avoiding the negative consequences of overwork. By taking proactive steps to balance ambition with self-care, high achievers can sustain their success while safeguarding their mental health, ensuring they can continue to thrive in all areas of their life.

When Parents Should Seek Help for a Teen with ADHD

As awareness of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has grown over the years, so have the misconceptions surrounding it. For teens, it’s not uncommon to hear a peer joke that their forgetfulness or distracted nature is due to ADHD. Because of these misconceptions, it’s difficult for parents of teens to know which behaviors are neurotypical and which ones require further support.

While it can present challenges, understanding ADHD and knowing when to take the steps toward treatment can empower families and set kids on a path to success. If you’re a parent wondering about ADHD, this guide will provide you with the insights you need:

Understanding ADHD: A Quick Overview

ADHD is characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. But it’s important to remember: having ADHD doesn’t define a child’s potential! With the right support and strategies, teens with ADHD can thrive and shine in their unique ways.

Recognizing the Signs of ADHD

Identifying ADHD can feel like a puzzle at times, but there are specific signs that can help you put the pieces together. Here are some behaviors that may indicate it’s time to look for professional support:

1. Inattention:
   • Frequently making careless mistakes or losing things.
   • Struggling to stay focused on tasks or conversations.
   • Having a tough time organizing schoolwork and activities.
   • Rereading pages and paragraphs because their mind drifts.
   • Losing track of time or taking longer than expected to complete tasks.
2. Hyperactivity:
   • Fidgeting or tapping during quiet activities.
   • Difficulty remaining seated when expected.
   • A tendency to talk excessively.
3. Impulsivity:
   • Blurting out answers before questions are finished.
   • Difficulty waiting for their turn in games or conversations.
   • Interrupting others, which can lead to social challenges.
   • Frequently buying unnecessary items on a whim.

If these behaviors are consistent and affect your child’s daily life—both at school or home—it might be time to explore options for support!

When to Seek Help: A Positive Perspective

Recognizing when to reach out for help can be a game-changer for your child. Here are some scenarios where seeking professional guidance is recommended:

1. Persistent Challenges: If your child constantly struggles with attention or impulse control and it’s impacting their happiness, don’t hesitate to seek help. You’re advocating for their well-being!
2. Academic Struggles: If your child is finding school overwhelming, despite their best efforts, it’s worth consulting a professional. With the right support, school can become a place of joy and achievement.
3. Behavioral Concerns: If your child exhibits disruptive behaviors that lead to conflicts or stress at home or school, seeking assistance can help you find effective strategies to ease these challenges.
4. Emotional Well-Being: If your child seems frequently anxious, sad, or withdrawn, these are important signals. Professional support can help them develop coping strategies and boost their emotional resilience.
5. Family Feedback: If family members or teachers share concerns about your child’s behavior, take those observations to heart. They can offer valuable insights that may guide your next steps.
6. Developmental Delays: If you notice any delays in speech, social skills, or other developmental milestones, it’s beneficial to seek an evaluation. Early support can make a significant difference.

The Evaluation Process: Your Roadmap to Support

Once you decide to seek help, the evaluation process might feel daunting, but knowing what to expect can turn it into a manageable and empowering experience that sets the stage for your child’s growth and success. Here’s a roadmap to guide you through:

1. Start with Your Pediatrician: Begin by discussing your concerns with your child’s pediatrician. They can provide valuable insights and refer you to specialists, like ROWI, who understand ADHD and work with teens with ADHD.
2. Behavioral Assessments: Specialists may conduct assessments that involve standardized tests and observations. This process helps paint a clear picture of your child’s strengths and challenges.
3. Gather Information: Parents often fill out questionnaires about their child’s behavior, while teachers can offer observations from school. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive understanding.
4. Diagnosis: An ADHD diagnosis may be made based on established criteria. 

Treatment Options for Teens with ADHD

If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, there are many effective treatment options available:

1. Behavioral Therapy: This approach helps children learn strategies to manage their symptoms. It can be fun and engaging, focusing on setting clear goals and rewarding positive behavior.
2. Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended to help improve focus and self-control. Always discuss options thoroughly with a healthcare provider to find the best fit for your child.
3. Educational Support: Schools can provide valuable resources, like Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), to help children with ADHD thrive academically. Teamwork between parents and educators is key!
4. Parent Training: Parents can learn effective strategies to support their child at home. This training can empower you to create a nurturing environment where your child can flourish.

The Power of Early Intervention

Early intervention is incredibly powerful. The sooner a child receives the help they need, the better their chances of thriving academically, socially, and emotionally. At ROWI, we specialize in providing tailored support for teens navigating ADHD and other mental health challenges. If you think your teen would benefit from ROWI’s programs, schedule a free assessment. Let’s work together to ensure that your child unlocks their full potential. 

What to Do If You Discover Suicidal Ideation in Your Teen

As a parent, discovering that your teen is experiencing suicidal ideation can be frightening. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and there are steps you can take to support your child during this difficult time. In honor of National Suicide Prevention Month, we’ve put together the following guide to help you navigate this complex situation with care and compassion.

Understanding Suicidal Ideation

Before diving into how to respond, it’s crucial to understand what suicidal ideation means. It refers to thoughts about wanting to end one’s life, which can range from fleeting thoughts to detailed planning. This doesn’t always mean a person will act on these thoughts, but it is a serious warning sign that should not be ignored.

1. Stay Calm and Open-Minded

The first step upon discovering that your teen is having these thoughts is to stay calm. Your immediate reaction might be one of panic or fear, but it’s vital to create a safe space for open dialogue. Approach your teen with empathy and understanding. Let them know you are there to listen and support them without judgment.

2. Ask Direct Questions

It might feel uncomfortable, but asking your teen direct questions about their feelings is essential. Use open-ended questions to encourage them to share. For example, you might say, “I’ve noticed you seem really down lately. Can you share what’s been on your mind lately or tell me how you’re feeling?” This shows your concern and provides them an opportunity to express what they’re going through.

3. Listen Actively

Once your teen starts to open up, listen actively. Avoid interrupting or offering immediate solutions. Instead, validate their feelings by acknowledging how hard things must be for them. Phrases like “That sounds really difficult” or “It’s normal to feel overwhelmed in a situation like this,” can help them feel heard and understood.

4. Take It Seriously

Always take suicidal ideation seriously. Even if your teen downplays their feelings or expresses them lightly, it’s crucial to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. Express your concern and assure them that it’s okay to talk about these feelings. Let them know that their thoughts are valid and important.

5. Encourage Professional Help

While your support is invaluable, it’s equally important to involve professionals who are trained to handle such situations. Encourage your teen to speak to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. If they are reluctant, offer to help them find someone or accompany them to their first appointment. This shows your commitment to their well-being and may ease their fears about seeking help.

6. Create a Safety Plan

Developing a safety plan can be a crucial step in preventing a crisis. Collaborate with your teen to create a plan that outlines steps to take when they feel overwhelmed. This could include identifying warning signs, coping strategies, and a list of people they can reach out to for support. Make sure the plan is easily accessible, such as on their phone or a visible spot at home.

7. Limit Access to Means

If your teen is actively expressing suicidal thoughts, it’s important to limit their access to means that could facilitate self-harm. This might involve removing items such as sharp objects, medications, or firearms from the home. It’s a difficult but necessary step to ensure their immediate safety.

8. Foster Open Communication

Maintain open lines of communication moving forward. Regularly check in with your teen about how they’re feeling. Encourage them to share their thoughts, and reassure them that it’s okay to talk about their mental health. By fostering an environment of openness, you help to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

9. Be Patient and Understanding

Recovery is often not linear, and there may be ups and downs along the way. Be patient with your teen as they navigate their feelings and healing process. Let them know that you are there for them, no matter what. Celebrate their small victories, and remind them that seeking help is a sign of strength.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Supporting a teen in crisis can be emotionally taxing. Don’t forget to prioritize your own mental health. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors for yourself. By taking care of your own emotional well-being, you will be better equipped to support your teen.

Conclusion

If your teen is experiencing suicidal ideation, it is critical that they receive the support of a mental healthcare professional. ROWI offers a Teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) to provide comprehensive care tailored to your teen’s needs, helping them navigate their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. If you’re concerned about your teen’s mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today for a free assessment and take the first step towards ensuring your teen receives the help they deserve. You are not alone on this journey, and there is hope for healing and recovery.

Remember, every child is different, so be flexible and attentive to their needs as they adjust. 

Some kids may need extra support on their way to a successful school year. If you’re concerned about your child’s meltdowns, ROWI is here to help. Sign up for a Free Assessment to see how we can work together to ensure that your child thrives.

Supporting Families in Stressful Times: The ROWI Approach

Recently, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory that confirmed what many parents have known for years: parenting is incredibly stressful. According to the report, 33% of parents have experienced high levels of stress in the past month, compared to 20% of other adults. Even more striking, 48% of parents say their stress feels overwhelming most days, compared to 26% among others.

These statistics might leave you feeling a range of emotions—overwhelmed, validated, or perhaps frustrated that this issue has taken so long to gain the attention it deserves. Whatever your reaction, it’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are completely normal.

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we understand that parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world, made even more challenging by the demands of our modern lives. This advisory is a step in the right direction, as it finally brings much-needed attention to the struggles parents face daily. But what do we do with this recognition? How can we use it to support parents better?

The key lies in connection—a core philosophy that ROWI Co-Founder and CEO Dr. Candice Feinberg explores in her book, No Parent Left Behind. Dr. Feinberg emphasizes that parenting should never be a solitary endeavor. Connection with our children, our partners, and even ourselves is essential to navigating the complex world of parenting. When we are connected, we are stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to handle the stress that inevitably comes with raising children.

At ROWI, we integrate this philosophy into our programs by prioritizing family therapy as a fundamental component of treatment. We believe that healing and growth happen most effectively within the family unit. Our programs are designed to support not just the adolescent, but the entire family, helping to build stronger, more connected relationships that can withstand the pressures of daily life.

Family therapy at ROWI is about more than just addressing conflicts or challenges. It’s about creating a space where parents and their child can reconnect, understand each other better, and build a foundation of trust and support. As Dr. Feinberg has said, “Taking care of kids and teens starts with taking care of parents. By addressing the stress and challenges parents face, we help them become more present and effective in their parenting roles, ultimately benefiting the entire family.”

As parents and caregivers, you are on the frontlines of this change. You are breaking free from old patterns and leading the way with empathy and resilience. And at ROWI, we are here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can create a new path forward—one where connection, support, and understanding are at the heart of every family.