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Stress and Teenage Girls

April 24, 2023 Categories: stress, teen issues Tags: dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Stress is a common issue that affects many people, and teen girls are no exception. The teenage years are often marked by changes, challenges, and uncertainties that can cause stress. Teenage girls, in particular, face unique challenges that can trigger stress.

One of the primary causes of stress in teen girls is academic pressure. As teenagers move into high school, the pressure to excel academically increases. Teen girls may feel overwhelmed by the amount of coursework, exams, and assignments they have to complete. The desire to achieve good grades and the fear of failure can create anxiety and stress. They may also feel pressure from parents or teachers to perform well, which can exacerbate the situation.

Another cause of stress in teen girls is social pressure. Teenage girls are often more socially aware than boys, and they may feel pressure to fit in with their peers. This pressure can manifest in different ways, such as wanting to dress a certain way, having a particular group of friends, or participating in specific activities. If they do not feel like they are meeting these expectations, they may experience stress and anxiety.

Body image is another cause of stress in teen girls. Adolescence is a time of physical changes, and girls may feel pressure to look a certain way. They may compare themselves to their peers or to images they see on social media, which can lead to negative self-image and low self-esteem. This pressure to look a certain way can lead to eating disorders, which can be life-threatening.

Family issues can also cause stress in teen girls. Teenage girls are often trying to establish their independence, but they still rely on their families for support. Family conflicts such as divorce, financial struggles, or illness can create stress and anxiety. Girls may also feel pressure to take care of younger siblings or to help their parents with household chores, which can add to their stress.

Finally, hormonal changes can cause stress in teen girls. During puberty, girls experience hormonal fluctuations that can affect their moods and emotions. They may feel more irritable or moody, which can lead to conflicts with friends or family members.

Some indications that your daughter is having trouble managing their stress levels include:

  • Neglecting obligations: If a teenager starts procrastinating more than usual, forgets assignments, or suddenly falls behind on other commitments, stress may be to blame.
  • Food changes: Either eating too little or too much might be a response to stress.
  • Teenagers often struggle to express their emotions, and stress can sometimes boil over into irritability and rage. Teenagers who are under a lot of stress could be more irritable or argumentative than usual.
  • Behavior shifts: A normally calm teen is now acting out. A physically fit teen no longer wants to leave the house. Getting sick more frequently. Unexpected changes may indicate high levels of stress.
  • Teens who are under stress may experience difficulty falling asleep at night or complain of feeling tired all the time.

Managing Teen Stress

It could seem challenging to assist your daughter in managing the stress of daily life. Here are some daily actions you may take to assist them:

  • Try being mindful. Teens who practice mindfulness can learn to be present and monitor their thoughts rather than letting them take over. Encourage them to practice yoga, belly breathing, and other forms of muscle relaxation. Teenagers who become anxious about the “what ifs” in life may find mindfulness to be quite helpful because it helps practitioners to slow down and focus on the present moment.
  • Discuss setting reasonable expectations and goals. Why should we treat kids any differently than we would an adult, who is not expected to be the best at all they do? Help your daughter develop clear, measurable, and attainable objectives by encouraging her in her interests and strengths. Teach your daughter to divide a challenging task—like a project or studying for a test—into smaller, easier ones that may be completed over time.
  • Plan your sleep schedule and get them to routinely exercise and eat. Teens require 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night, but most of them only get about 7 to 7.25. Sleep is vital to overall teen health. They can prepare their bodies for sleep by setting a time when all electronics are switched off and they are in a calm, peaceful environment. Teens can decompress from their daily stress by getting involved in sports or another physically active activity.
  • Journaling. Teens who find it difficult to express their emotions orally may find it helpful to write them down in a notebook. Writing about oneself can help alleviate mental distress and enhance wellbeing, according to research. For instance, some studies have shown that writing about good feelings, such as what you’re grateful for or what you’re proud of, might lessen the symptoms of anxiety and sadness

In conclusion, stress in teen girls can be caused by various factors, including academic pressure, social pressure, body image issues, family conflicts, and hormonal changes. It is essential to recognize the signs of stress in teen girls and provide them with the support they need. Parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals can help teen girls cope with stress by providing them with coping mechanisms, a supportive environment, and access to mental health resources like those provided by Evangelhouse Christian Academy. By doing so, we can help teen girls navigate the challenges of adolescence and set them up for a healthy and happy future.

Structure Helps Girls Overcome Trauma

April 16, 2023 Categories: Boarding School Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Trauma can have long-lasting and detrimental effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. It can leave teen girls feeling helpless, vulnerable, and struggling to cope with their emotions. While there are many ways to address and cope with trauma, one option that has been proven to be effective is being in a structured environment like Evangelhouse. The structured Christian environment of Evangelhouse can provide girls with the support, guidance, and structure they need to overcome their trauma and thrive.

One of the key benefits of being in a structured environment like Evangelhouse is the sense of community and support that it provides. Girls who have experienced trauma may feel isolated and alone, struggling to find people who understand what they have been through. By being in a boarding school environment, they are surrounded by other girls who are going through similar experiences. This sense of community can provide a much-needed sense of connection and support, helping girls feel less alone and more understood.

In addition to the social support at Evangelhouse, the structure of the environment can also be helpful in addressing trauma. Trauma can often leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope with their emotions. In a structured environment, girls are provided with a routine and a set of expectations that can help them feel more in control of their lives. This can be especially beneficial for girls who have experienced trauma, as it can help them feel more grounded and stable.

Furthermore, Evangelhouse has a team of professionals who are dedicated to supporting the emotional and mental well-being of the students. Evangelhouse professionals include therapists, counselors, teachers, and other mental health professionals who are trained to help girls work through their trauma. By having access to this kind of support, girls are able to receive the help they need to overcome their trauma and move forward.

Another benefit of being in an all-girls boarding school is the opportunity for girls to develop their independence and self-reliance. Trauma can often leave individuals feeling like they have no control over their lives. By being in a boarding school environment, girls are given the opportunity to develop their independence and take charge of their own lives. This can help them feel more empowered and capable of overcoming their trauma.

Finally, being in a boarding school environment like Evangelhouse can provide girls with a sense of stability and consistency that may be lacking in their home lives. Trauma can often disrupt a person’s sense of stability and security, leaving them feeling uncertain and anxious. By being in a boarding school, girls are provided with a stable and consistent environment that can help them feel more secure and grounded.

In conclusion, being in a structured environment like Evangelhouse can be incredibly beneficial for girls who have experienced trauma. By providing social support, structure, access to mental health professionals, opportunities for independence and self-reliance, and a stable environment, girls can work through their trauma and build a brighter future. While boarding school is not the right choice for everyone, it can be a powerful tool for those who are struggling to overcome trauma and build a better life for themselves.

Social Media and Depression

April 10, 2023 Categories: depression Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, especially among teenagers. While it has its benefits, such as connecting with others and sharing experiences, social media can also have negative effects on mental health, particularly in teenage girls.

Social media can create unrealistic standards for beauty and body image. Teenage girls are bombarded with images of airbrushed, edited, and filtered pictures of celebrities, models, and influencers. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, causing them to constantly compare themselves to others, leading to negative thoughts and feelings. Moreover, they may feel the need to conform to these unattainable beauty standards, which can lead to unhealthy dieting and eating disorders.

Social media can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. Teenagers spend a lot of time on social media, and this means they are more susceptible to online harassment. Cyberbullying can have a significant impact on their mental health and well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and even suicide ideation. Additionally, the anonymity of social media can make it easier for bullies to target and harass others without being held accountable.

Apps like TikTok and Instagram can be addictive, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Teenagers spend a lot of time on social media, and this can take away from their face-to-face social interactions, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Moreover, the constant need to check their accounts and notifications can lead to anxiety and restlessness.

Viewing idealized photos of influencers on social media can create a distorted sense of reality, leading to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. Teenagers are constantly exposed to the highlight reels of other people’s lives, which can create unrealistic expectations for their own lives. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety, as they feel they are not living up to what they see on social media.

Social media can have a negative impact on teenage girls’ mental health, particularly their susceptibility to depression. By creating unrealistic beauty standards, promoting cyberbullying, creating feelings of loneliness, and distorting reality, social media can contribute to the development of depression and other mental health issues. It is important for parents and educators to understand the potential negative impacts of social media on teenage girls and take steps to mitigate these risks. This can include limiting social media usage, promoting healthy body image and self-esteem, and providing support and resources for those who are struggling.

Social media can also reduce the amount of time children spend engaging in enjoyable activities like hobbies and exercise. It can also divert attention from critical things like homework. Children may experience more stress due to having to balance these obligations. Additionally, studies indicate that accessing social media at night prevents many teenagers from getting a good night’s sleep.

Parents should monitor their children’s social media usage and assist them in forming positive routines. Kids should be encouraged to disable notifications, spend a lot of time engaging in satisfying offline activities, and put their phones aside before night. Additionally, you can lead by example by using social media responsibly.

Finally, remember to watch out for indications of depression and get professional assistance if you are concerned. It’s crucial to keep an eye on children who are experiencing a lot of stress. If you are in need of professional assistance to deal with your daughter’s social media habits and more, give us a call today at (800) 924-4012.

Why Are Values Important?

March 14, 2023 Categories: Boarding School, teen issues Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

As teenage girls navigate the complexities of growing up, they often face challenges related to setting and maintaining boundaries. Boundaries can be thought of as the limits that individuals set for themselves in terms of what is acceptable or not acceptable in their interactions with others. Values, on the other hand, refer to the principles and beliefs that guide a person’s behavior and decision-making. In this essay, we will explore the relationship between boundaries and values for teenage girls and why it is important for them to have a healthy balance between the two.

One of the primary reasons why boundaries are important for teenage girls is that they help to protect their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. For example, a teenage girl might set boundaries around how much time she spends on social media or with certain friends to ensure that she is not sacrificing her schoolwork or other important activities. Similarly, she might set boundaries around physical touch or sexual activity to ensure that she is not engaging in behaviors that make her feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

At the same time, values are also critical for teenage girls as they navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood. Values provide a sense of direction and purpose, helping teenagers to make decisions that are in line with their beliefs and priorities. For example, a teenage girl might value honesty, integrity, and respect and use these values to guide her behavior in her relationships with others.

It is important to note that boundaries and values are interconnected. In order to set and maintain healthy boundaries, teenage girls must have a clear understanding of their values and priorities. This means that they must be able to identify what is important to them and what they are willing to tolerate in their interactions with others. For example, a teenage girl who values her privacy might set boundaries around sharing personal information with others.

On the other hand, having strong values can also help teenage girls to set and maintain healthy boundaries. If a teenage girl values her self-worth and self-respect, she is more likely to set boundaries around how she is treated by others. For example, she might not tolerate being spoken to disrespectfully or being pressured into doing something she is not comfortable with.

It is also important for teenage girls to strike a healthy balance between boundaries and values. While setting boundaries is important for protecting one’s well-being, it is also important to remain open to new experiences and relationships. For example, a teenage girl who values kindness and compassion might set a boundary around being treated with respect but also remain open to making new friends and being kind to others.

Evangelhouse can be a transformative environment for teen girls, as we provide a unique opportunity for them to build values that will shape the rest of their lives. Adolescence is a time of significant growth and development, and Evangelhouse provides the necessary guidance, support, and resources that teenage girls need to build a strong foundation for their future.

Evangelhouse provides a safe and nurturing environment that is grounded in Christian principles. We offer a supportive community that is centered on faith, with staff and faculty members who model Christian values and encourage students to develop their own relationship with God. This can help girls to develop a sense of purpose and meaning, and to understand their place in the world.

Another way Evangelhouse builds values in our girls is by emphasizing the importance of service and giving back. Christian values are rooted in the idea of serving others, and Evangelhouse provides opportunities for girls to engage in service projects and other forms of outreach. This can help them to develop a sense of compassion and empathy, and to understand the importance of making a positive difference in the lives of others.

In addition, the faith-based program at Evangelhouse helps girls to develop strong moral character and a sense of responsibility. By encouraging them to take ownership of their actions and decisions, and by holding them accountable for their behavior, Evangelhouse can help girls to develop a strong sense of integrity and honesty. Evangelhouse provides a structured and supportive environment that helps students to stay focused and motivated. By offering rigorous academic programs, extracurricular activities, and other opportunities for growth and development, Evangelhouse can help girls to build a strong sense of self-discipline and work ethic. This can be invaluable as they move on to college and other pursuits, as it prepares them to succeed in all aspects of life.

Finally, Evangelhouse can help your daughter to build lasting friendships and connections that will support them throughout their life. By fostering a sense of community and belonging, and by encouraging girls to support and care for one another, we help to create a positive and supportive culture that will last long after graduation.

Boundaries and values are crucial for teenage girls as they navigate the complexities of growing up. By setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, teenage girls can protect their well-being and ensure that they are not sacrificing their priorities and beliefs. At the same time, having strong values can help teenage girls to set boundaries that are in line with their priorities and beliefs. By striking a healthy balance between boundaries and values, teenage girls can navigate the challenges of adolescence with confidence and purpose.

Don’t Delay Seeking Trauma Treatment For Your Daughter

March 6, 2023 Categories: trauma Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health and well-being, especially for teenage girls. While many people may assume that teenage girls are resilient and can bounce back from difficult experiences, this is not always the case. Trauma can affect a teenager’s mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life, and delaying mental health treatment can exacerbate these negative effects. In this essay, we will explore why parents should not delay seeking mental health treatment for teen girls with trauma.

First and foremost, trauma can have a long-term impact on a teenager’s mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, traumatic experiences can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These symptoms can persist for months or even years after the traumatic event, and can significantly impair a teenager’s ability to function in daily life. For example, a teenager with PTSD may experience nightmares or flashbacks that interfere with their ability to sleep or concentrate in school. Delaying mental health treatment for these symptoms can exacerbate them and make them more difficult to treat in the long run.

Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being, and it is essential to address any mental health concerns promptly. Teen girls who have experienced trauma are particularly vulnerable to developing mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unfortunately, many parents delay seeking mental health treatment for their teen girls with trauma, which can have devastating consequences. In this essay, we will discuss the reasons why parents should not delay seeking mental health treatment for their teen girls with trauma.

Mental health issues can worsen over time if left untreated. Trauma can cause severe and long-lasting psychological damage, which can lead to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. If left untreated, these conditions can worsen, making it increasingly difficult for the teen girl to function in her daily life. Delaying mental health treatment can also lead to a vicious cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors, which can become ingrained and harder to treat over time. At Evangelhouse, trauma is addressed in individual and group therapy, as well as in Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Seeking mental health treatment early can prevent the development of more severe mental health issues. Early intervention is essential to prevent mental health problems from spiraling out of control. By seeking help early, parents can prevent the development of more severe mental health issues that may require more extensive treatment and a more extended recovery period. Mental health issues can affect all aspects of a teen girl’s life, including her academic performance, social relationships, and physical health. By delaying mental health treatment, parents may inadvertently be setting their teen girl up for a more challenging and less fulfilling life.

Seeking mental health treatment at a high-quality program like Evangelhouse can provide your daughter with the tools and resources she needs to cope with her trauma. Mental health treatment can help your teen girl develop healthy coping mechanisms and teach her how to manage her emotions and thoughts effectively. This can be particularly important for teen girls who have experienced trauma, as they may not have the skills and resources necessary to deal with their experiences effectively.

In conclusion, seeking mental health treatment early is crucial for teen girls who have experienced trauma. Delaying mental health treatment can lead to a worsening of mental health issues, the development of more severe mental health problems, long-lasting consequences for the teen girl’s overall well-being, and a lack of access to tools and resources needed to cope with trauma. As such, it is essential for parents to prioritize their teen girl’s mental health and seek out the necessary resources and support as soon as possible.

Why An All-Girls Boarding School Might Be The Best Fit For Your Daughter

February 28, 2023 Categories: Boarding School Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

All-girls boarding schools have been a staple of education for young women for centuries, and there are many reasons why they continue to be the best place for academic and character development. All-girls schools like Evangelhouse provide a unique environment that fosters growth and development in young women, helping them to become confident, independent, and successful individuals.  An all-girls boarding school can be a transformative environment for young women looking to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. There are several reasons why an all-girls boarding school is the best place for academic and character development.

First, an all-girls setting like Evangelhouse can provide a highly focused and supportive academic environment. Because the school is all-girls, there is a greater sense of camaraderie and sisterhood, which can be highly motivating for students. Additionally, an all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can offer tailored academic programs and resources designed specifically for girls, such as single-sex classes, which have been shown to help girls feel more confident and perform better academically. By offering a highly focused and supportive academic environment, an all-girls boarding school can help students achieve academic excellence and reach their full potential.

Second, Evangelhouse offers a nurturing and empowering community for young women. In an all-girls environment, students can develop strong relationships with their peers and mentors, which can be essential for building self-confidence and a sense of belonging. Additionally, an all-girls boarding school can provide a safe and supportive environment for young women to explore their interests, develop their talents, and pursue their goals without the distractions and pressures of a coeducational environment. By fostering a nurturing and empowering community, an all-girls boarding school can help students develop strong character traits such as resilience, empathy, and leadership.

Third, an all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can offer a range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities that can help students develop their skills and passions outside of the classroom schedule. With a range of clubs, sports teams, and cultural activities, an all-girls boarding school can provide a diverse and enriching experience for students. Additionally, an all-girls boarding school can offer leadership opportunities that can help students develop their leadership skills and prepare for future success. By offering a range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities, an all-girls boarding school can help students develop a strong sense of purpose and direction.

Finally, an all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can prepare young women for success in college and beyond. By offering a challenging academic curriculum, a supportive community, and a range of extracurricular opportunities, an all-girls boarding school can help students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in college and beyond. Additionally, an all-girls boarding school can provide young women with the mentorship and guidance they need to pursue their career goals and make a positive impact on the world.

In conclusion, an all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can be a transformative environment for young women looking to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. By providing a highly focused and supportive academic environment, a nurturing and empowering community, a range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities, and preparation for success in college and beyond, an all-girls boarding school can help students develop strong character traits and achieve their full potential.

Why Attend A Christian All Girls Boarding School

February 19, 2023 Categories: teen issues Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Attending a boarding school like Evangelhouse can be a life-changing experience for many young women, and it can have a significant impact on their mental health. For girls who attend a Christian all-girls boarding school like Evanelhouse, the benefits can be even greater. In this article, we will explore the mental health benefits of attending a Christian all-girls boarding school, and how this type of environment can help girls develop the tools and resources they need to achieve success in all areas of their lives.

First, it is important to understand that mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental health, and the impact it can have on every aspect of a person’s life. Mental health affects how we think, feel, and behave, and it can impact our relationships, our work, and our ability to enjoy life.

For young girls, the pressures of adolescence can be particularly challenging. As they navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood, they may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The stresses of school, peer pressure, and social media can all contribute to these issues, and many girls struggle to find the support and resources they need to cope.

This is where attending a Christian all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can make a difference. In this type of environment, girls are surrounded by a community of like-minded peers and supportive adults who can help them develop the tools and resources they need to manage their mental health.

One of the primary benefits of attending a Christian all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse is the sense of community and belonging that it provides. Girls who attend these schools are part of a close-knit community, and they have the opportunity to develop strong relationships with their peers and with adult mentors.

This sense of community is particularly important for girls who may be struggling with mental health issues. Feeling isolated or disconnected can exacerbate these issues, and being part of a supportive community can help girls feel more connected and less alone.

In addition to the social benefits of attending a Christian all-girls boarding school, there are also a number of academic benefits. Girls who attend these schools have access to high-quality academic programs, and they are often challenged to reach their full potential.

This can be particularly beneficial for girls who may struggle in traditional school environments. In a Christian all-girls boarding school, they may receive more individualized attention and support, and they may be encouraged to develop their own unique strengths and interests.

Another benefit of attending a Christian all-girls boarding school is the focus on character development. At Evangelhouse, we place a strong emphasis on developing ethical and moral values, and we provide students with opportunities to engage in community service and other activities that promote social responsibility.

This focus on character development can be particularly beneficial for girls who may be struggling with mental health issues. By emphasizing the importance of character and values, Evangelhouse helps girls develop a strong sense of self-worth and purpose, which can be critical for maintaining good mental health.

Finally, attending a Christian all-girls boarding school like Evangelhouse can provide girls with a sense of independence and empowerment. Living away from home and taking responsibility for their own lives can be a transformative experience for many girls, and it can help them develop the confidence and self-assurance they need to succeed in all areas of their lives.

How to Combat Bullying on Social Media

February 13, 2023 Categories: bullying Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

At Evangelhouse, we help girls in grades 6-12 that have been the victim of cyberbullying. Bullying that occurs online, such as on computers, tablets, and mobile phones, is referred to as cyberbullying. Cyberbullying can happen online through social media, forums, or gaming where users can read, interact with, or exchange content. It can also happen through SMS, Text, and applications. Sending, posting, or disseminating unfavorable, hurtful, or malicious content about someone else is considered cyberbullying. It can also involve disclosing sensitive or private information about another individual in a way that causes embarrassment or humiliation. Cyberbullying occasionally veers into illegal or criminal action.

The following places are where cyberbullying is most frequent:

  • Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Tik Tok are examples of social media.
  • Message-sending software for tablets and mobile phones
  • Online chatting, direct messaging, and instant messaging all use the internet.
  • Online message boards, chat rooms, and forums like Reddit
  • Emailing online gaming forums

Effects/Signs of Cyberbullying

Abusers transmit harmful words when they can remain hidden behind a screen because they can avoid confrontations of being face-to-face. However, because cyberbullying can conceal itself behind a screen, it may be challenging for you to recognize when it is happening. The following are some typical red flags that your daughter is a victim of cyberbullying:

  • After utilizing their phone or the internet, your daughter experiences sadness, anger, or she gets upset.
  • Your daughter has withdrawn from friends or family
  • She has a reduction in grades without apparent cause or is reluctant to participate in routine activities or attend school.
  • She displays signs of depression

One of the most frequent causes of a teen girl withdrawing from activities or reluctance to attend school is bullying. Because it can be difficult to escape from and sometimes even follows you home from school, cyberbullying can be especially deadly. If your daughter is a victim of cyberbullying, it is crucial that this situation be handled appropriately and that they receive the assistance they require. Over time, victims of cyberbullying may have a range of psychological issues.

The majority of cyberbullying attacks happen on social networking sites. Social media platforms make it simple for cyberbullying assaults to spread to many others in addition to the target. Because of this, cyberbullying incidents may be more destructive, and social media may have a significant impact on the increased occurrence of cyberbullying among teenagers.

In fact, using social media excessively can cause a variety of mental health issues on its own. Social media was created as a tool for connecting people and for exchanging concepts, ideas, and knowledge across a virtual network. Ironically, though, using social media excessively can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This occurs because we often only show the finest aspects of ourselves and our life on social media, making others feel unworthy.

How to Combat Online Bullying

It’s critical to get help if you think that your daughter may be a victim of cyberbullying. Here are some advice and strategies to support you or a loved one who is dealing with cyberbullying.

Make an effort to help: If your daughter is a victim of cyberbullying, it’s critical that they get the support they need to stop the behavior and lessen the likelihood that it may have negative impacts or cause problems with their mental health. As a parent, listening and providing support are two of the best things you can do.

Refrain from responding or retaliating: When one person bullies another, they frequently search for a response to give them a sense of power. Additionally, taking offense can start a domino effect of negative reactions that prolongs and worsens the cyberbullying attack.

Remember that cyberbullying is not the victim’s fault: Conflicts between two or more people can occasionally lead to disagreements. A person is not handling the disagreement effectively and is actually bullying you if they are being cruel to you on a regular basis, whether it be in person or online. Never put the responsibility on yourself if someone mistreats you.

Use tech tools or remove your social media accounts: Deleting your social media accounts may seem hasty and “not an option” for some, but doing so could be the quickest approach to stop cyberbullying because social media can have many negative consequences on your welfare. However, you can block or report the harasser(s) if you don’t want to completely erase your social network account. Blocking the person might not be the best course of action if you are receiving significant threats, such as bodily harm, and it may be necessary to contact your local authorities.

Discuss online-related issues: Make sure your daughter knows they may turn to you if they receive any improper, perilous, or disturbing messages online. Talk to your daughter about the value of refraining from posting offensive or aggressive content online as well as acceptable conflict resolution techniques.

Next Steps

If your daughter has been victimized by cyberbullying on social media, the highly trained staff at Evangelhouse can help. Whether it’s through individual or group therapy, or as part of our therapeutic milieu, our girls at Evangelhouse receive the therapeutic support and positive peer interaction necessary to heal and grow. Please give us a call today at 1-800-924-4012 to discuss your daughter’s needs.

Teenage Substance Abuse and Depression

February 6, 2023 Categories: depression, substance abuse Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Teenage substance use, especially alcohol consumption, is becoming more widespread as peer pressure, environmental pressures, a desire for independence, and attempting to deal with emotional problems all encourage youngsters to drink. According to a 2017 poll on teenage risk behavior, 14% of high school students binge drank, 30% of them drank moderately, 6% of them drove after drinking, and 17% of them traveled with a driver who had been drinking.

While research has shown that drinking in teens can be an indication of underlying mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, it is not uncommon for people to mistake it for just being a sign of adolescent experimentation. The National Institute on Drug Abuse revealed that 6 out of 10 substance abusers also have a mental condition. Because these co-occurring disorders are so common, learning about the connection between depression and substance addiction and its effects will help you figure out the best way to support your daughter if she is going through these difficulties.

Because drinking or using drugs might help some teenagers with mental health issues feel more at ease in social circumstances and inside their own brains, they may do so more frequently. Teenagers may feel more at ease using alcohol as a form of self-medication than using prescribed medications like antidepressants because drinking is considered acceptable. Others use alcohol or other drugs to feel better or to lessen the irritation they experience from depression. It can appear to be a useful coping method if they are offered what appears to be an escape from the depression symptoms and bad thoughts they are experiencing.

Because alcohol and other drugs activate the same brain regions as mental health illnesses do, they temporarily seem to lessen the undesirable negative mental health symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, over time, youth experience worse symptoms than they did before using the medications, which can have serious consequences like suicidal ideation, substance abuse, or addiction. Adolescents are especially at risk because they are more likely than adults to have the rapid onset of a serious substance use disorder. Addiction can develop even more quickly in teenagers who already have a mental health condition than it does in other children. If not treated, at least half of all adolescents who have been diagnosed with a mental health illness will also develop a substance abuse issue.

How Teenage Brains Are Affected by Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that slows down the central nervous system’s activity. Due to how alcohol affects the developing teenage brain, this can be especially risky for those who are underage drinkers. Alcohol usually has less of a detrimental impact on teenagers than it does on adults. This might increase teen binge drinking (four to five or more drinks at a time).

Additional mental repercussions of teen drinking include:

  • Alcohol slows down brain function, and its harmful effects can last up to two weeks longer in a teenager’s brain than in an adult’s.
  • The area of the teenage brain that regulates judgment, conduct, and impulse control can be impacted by alcohol even at modest doses.
  • There is a 40% risk that children who start drinking before age 15 will have their brains “programmed” for alcoholism.
  • Learning and memory can be impacted by some of the most severe brain damage brought on by alcohol. According to tests, persons who start drinking alcohol as teenagers struggle as adults to perform basic activities like reading a map or putting together projects. Teens who drink alcohol may experience changes in their psychological health in addition to physical ones.

Alcohol’s Mental and Emotional Effects on Teens

Teenagers who experiment with alcohol may use alcohol to mask their concern over a challenging situation in their life. However, regular drinking can be dangerous. Alcohol might momentarily lessen anxiety, but it can also make it worse within a few hours of drinking. Even moderate alcohol consumption might have an anxiety-inducing effect that lingers throughout the next day.

Psychological Perils of Minor Alcohol Use:

  • Alcohol usage in teenagers increases the likelihood of adult mental health issues such as depression, suicide, and psychosis.
  • 39 percent of 12- to 17-year-old current drinkers had severe behavioral issues, and 31% showed extremely high levels of psychological distress.
  • Teenagers who consume alcohol are more prone to have poor impulse control, which may result in dangerous sexual conduct or violent outbursts.
  • Teenage drinking’s physical repercussions might result in other types of substance abuse as well. Cannabis usage is 22 times more likely in underage drinkers, while cocaine use is 50 times more likely in them.

With all of the potentially harmful effects of having depression and substance use disorders together, it’s critical to get adolescent patients the care they require as soon as possible to avoid lasting effects.

How to Help Your Teen Who Does Drugs and Suffers From Depression

Treatment for an addiction and depression co-occurring diagnosis can take a variety of forms, from the more conventional approach of treating the addiction first and then the depression to more cutting-edge approaches that simultaneously treat both conditions to lower the risk of relapse in either condition.

Finding treatment that prioritizes treating both diseases simultaneously is crucial for youth in particular to prevent either disorder from sliding between the cracks. Additionally, because the stress they experience during standard addiction treatment programs like the 12-step recovery model can be detrimental to recovery, kids who have been diagnosed with co-occurring disorders often don’t succeed in them.

When treating both problems concurrently, practitioners frequently use cognitive behavioral therapy or DBT with medication to help manage both depression and substance withdrawal symptoms. Teens have been found to respond particularly well to programs that foster healthy social bonds. This can include interpersonal therapy, which can play a significant role in emotional support and skill-building that aids teens in coping with the unpleasant emotions connected to mental illness and substance abuse.

The care your teen needs to be successful on her healing path can be obtained from Evangelhouse if she is dealing with the co-occurring diseases of depression and substance misuse.

Evangelhoue Is Here To Help

We specialize in assisting young women on their road toward healing by combining a distinctive combination of therapeutic procedures with a healthy peer community founded on Christian values. Evangelhouse is one of the top behavioral healthcare facilities for girls in grades 6 through 12. We work to give adolescent girls the confidence to believe in themselves by giving them the resources and inspiration needed to implant these beliefs for life.

We provide treatment for teenagers who are struggling with a range of issues including previous trauma, loss, mental disorders, and addictive behaviors. Evangelhouse is a committed group of therapeutic professionals with specialized training and experience working with trauma, grief, and addiction. We have a track record of helping young women who are dealing with a range of issues successfully. Please call for further details on how Evangelhouse may assist.

Self-Esteem and Bullying

February 1, 2023 Categories: bullying, Self-Esteem Tags: , dr.michael.bishop@gmail.com

Parents often contact us at Evangelhouse with concerns that their daughter has been bullied at their school of origin back home. However, many parents are unaware of any preventative steps they can take now to mitigate the negative effects of bullying, either online or face-to-face. Asking open-ended questions and interacting with your teen daughter can help parents establish and sustain a connection that can make her feel more secure. Your daughter likely finds significant support in your relationship with her. If you have a safe and honest relationship with your daughter, they are more likely to come to you if they are the victim of bullying.

A decline in social and communication skills is a primary way bullying affects one’s sense of self. It’s crucial for parents to support these actions by complimenting children directly on their behavior, such as by saying, “Wow, you did a really excellent job advocating for yourself today,” or “I really admire how nice of a friend you are.” Positive attributes that you notice in your child can be expressed aloud to help them fight negative self-talk when they’re feeling sad and hard on themselves. Even if your daughter doesn’t show you any love in return, it can still be beneficial to maintain a positive attitude about how much they mean to you. Even if they don’t acknowledge it, they are always hearing you.

Parents often struggle to explain to their daughters why some teens behave in a bullying manner to them. People frequently assume that children who bully do so because they have low self-esteem—that is, because they don’t think highly of themselves. But is this actually the case? If you’ve ever dealt with a bully in your life, you might be curious as to why they look so confident in themselves given that bullies are often thought of as having low self-esteem. In actuality, experts have discovered that a bully’s hurtful behavior has less to do with their self-esteem and more to do with the sensation of shame.

Shame is related to how you view yourself and is brought on by failing to meet your own expectations. Shame is distinct from guilt, another feeling you could experience if you don’t live up to social expectations. If your actions have caused someone else harm, you could feel guilty, but you can also choose to ignore your guilt. But shame makes you believe that your entire being is flawed. If a child feels that particular aspects of himself—her looks, friendships, performance, socioeconomic standing, or the behavior of family members—don’t measure up to what he perceives as “good enough” or ideal traits, she may feel ashamed about herself.

The bottom line is that bullies are adept at making other people feel ashamed. There is no connection between children who act aggressively against other children and low self-esteem, according to research. In fact, psychologists have discovered that although bullies tend to have high self-esteem, they are also extremely “shame-prone.”

This finding indicates that bullies are concerned that their weaknesses or failures may be revealed. Having strong self-esteem despite having shame-related issues is what causes someone to behave aggressively. Because it diverts attention away from the aspects of themselves that they are embarrassed of, their harsh behavior against others maintains their sense of self-worth.

Here are some simple solutions we suggest to your child that might mitigate the negative effects of being bullied:

  • Speak to someone; it can make you feel less alone to have someone listen to you. You could consult a friend, relative, or other responsible adult. You can, of course, always speak with one of our counselors or mentors.
  • Remind yourself that you are sufficient. When we’re down, we never seem to remember all the wonderful things we’ve accomplished. Start a Gratitude Journal to serve as a constant reminder that you are enough.
  • Make a list of all your strongest traits: Self-love is crucial and can significantly boost our self-esteem and confidence.
  • Get rid of all the unpleasant pages and users on your social media accounts by unfollowing or blocking them. While receiving “likes” and other good feedback can lift your spirits and give you more self-assurance, it’s vital to remember that you should never depend on them to make you feel better.
  • Spend time with happy individuals since being in a toxic friendship group may significantly affect your confidence and self-esteem and sap your vitality. Our mental health depends on having supportive friends. They keep us resilient, boost our self-esteem, and assist us in managing stress.
  • No matter how big or small, it’s crucial to recognize and appreciate your accomplishments. Setting goals is one of the most crucial things a person can do, and accomplishing them (no matter how long it takes) is another.

Finally, if your teen daughter is not able to function in school or with peers due to bullying, it may be time for a change. At Evangelhouse, we provide a healthy campus culture that can create corrective experiences to undo the negative effects of bullying by fostering healthy peer relationships.  Contact us at Evangelhouse to discuss how we may help your daughter get back on track.

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