Therapy for Teens
“It’s not about blockers. Kids will always find information if they want to. Tech is, and always will be, ubiquitous. Raising healthy kids today is about communication, understanding their world, and appropriate conversations.”
– Michelle Holleman
Is your teen under a lot of stress? Do they not seem as happy as they once did? Are they isolating and disconnected, except online? Have you found things on their devices that concern you, even with blockers?
Teens today feel a greater need to perform well academically and fit into social circles, especially with social media.
Teens have access to pornography as soon as we hand them a tablet or smartphone. Studies show the average age for kids to first view pornography 8-9 years old, and that 12-17 year-olds are its largest consumers. Gaming is a great gateway . . .
How pornography impacts our brains:
It’s not a problem, until it’s a problem
We are here to support your family without shaming, whether, “it’s a problem,” or it could become one with time.
A common problem we address:
Teens can often face some serious life challenges that impact their mental health and well-being. Today, most teens cope by connecting online.
A common problem we address:
Here are some concerns:
Preferring gaming/being online over spending time with others
In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized the severity of teenage Gaming and Tech Addiction by classifying gaming disorder as a diagnosable mental health condition. This disorder is included in the 11th edition of WHO’s International Classification of Diseases Manual. The WHO lists three main criteria for the diagnosis of gaming disorder:
- An inability to control the urge to play video games
- The feeling that gaming is more important than any other activity
- Continuing to play video games despite the negative consequences of the behavior on relationships, academic performance, and/or work.
Getting around blocker programs, uninstalling and reinstalling apps
Deleting browser histories, encountering computer viruses, deleted texts, emails, social media threads
Conflicts arising when requests to limit or change gaming/online behavior occur
Not returning texts/phone calls, especially if there have been recent discussions or restrictions placed around gaming or online use
Neglecting partners or others to make time for gaming/being online
More time spent gaming or making plans to use tech more often
Denial of problem despite others pointing it out
Attempts to reduce use often failing
Would rather game/be online than participate in other activities
Irritable and angry when restricted
Lies to self and others about use, secret keeping
Use interferes with offline activities
May be depressed, anxious, or avoidant
Uses gaming/spending time online as a way to escape problems
Multiple areas of concern exist (family, academic, employment, health, relationships)
If your teen is struggling right now and you have concerns about their social media, tech, or gaming use, please reach out to us.