There’s an Igbo and Yoruba proverb many people have heard, “It takes a village to raise a child.” The proverb emphasized the need for not only parents to raise a child, but for everyone around that child to help.
If you’re a parent of a troubled teen, you’re probably wondering where the village is that is supposed to be helping you raise your child. You may feel alone in the struggle to help your child learn how to make better choices in life.
While you may not feel as though your community supports you in the way the old adage says, there are ways to seek help. The following are some of those support networks you can connect with as early as today.
Parent Support Groups
Most communities have parent support groups. Information about them can be found in a local library, community center, or government building, such as a social services office. Parent support groups bring people together to discuss ways to help their child during tumultuous adolescent years.
To find support groups in your area, visit The Support Group Project.
Churches
Churches often have faith-based programs that can help you during this difficult time in your life. While the people you meet may not be going through the same exact situation, they have usually felt the same emotions as you. Together, you can discuss life’s challenges, find hope and faith that with perseverance, life can get better for you and your troubled teen.
Speak with a church where you feel comfortable about Bible studies and other programs they have available that you can join.
Therapy
Having someone to connect with, gain insight from, and figure out what you want and need to do can help you feel as though there is someone out there that is willing to help. Check with your insurance provider to see if they have a network of therapists you can choose from, and then make an appointment. It’s important to build a good rapport with your therapist, so be sure to find someone who you can speak with comfortably; even if you need to switch therapists after a couple sessions.
Therapeutic Boarding School
Therapeutic boarding schools for troubled teens often have programs for parents. Through the process of helping teens, they help families as well. At Sundance Canyon Academy, we include family in our programs because we know they need just as much support as the teens do for a successful homecoming and future. If you need help with your troubled teen, call Sundance Canyon Academy today for information on how we can help. Our staff is experience, knowledgeable and always available to guide you and your teen back to the path of a loving, caring relationship.
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