Building Resilience: 5 Ways to Volunteer with Your Teen and Support Mental Health
Laurie Moser . Published October 9, 2023
Source: unsplash
I volunteered a few years ago at the Ronald McDonald House with my teen and her friends. It was such an amazing experience for us all. It felt so good to serve, help and do it together with family and friends. A great bonding experience and it was super fun also. Made me realize the importance of volunteering and how it benefits everyone involved.
Navigating the challenges of parenting a teenager dealing with mental health issues can feel like an isolating journey. You might often find yourself feeling overwhelmed, alone, helpless and exhausted, searching for ways to bridge the gap between you and your struggling teen. One powerful way to reconnect and make a difference together is through volunteering.
Here are 5 simple yet impactful ways to involve your teenager in volunteering activities, fostering not only a sense of purpose but also strengthening the bond between both of you.
1. Explore Their Interests:
Begin by exploring your teen's passions and interests. Are they drawn to animals, the environment, or helping the less fortunate? Tailor your volunteering activities to align with their preferences. If they love animals, consider volunteering at a local animal shelter together. By engaging in something they genuinely care about, you're more likely to capture their enthusiasm and commitment.
2. Lead by Example:
Teens learn best by observing. Show them the importance of giving back by leading through your actions. Whether it's dedicating time to a community kitchen, participating in neighbourhood clean-up drives, or helping out at a local nursing home, your active involvement can inspire your teenager to join you. Your sincerity and example will resonate with them, reinforcing the value of compassion and selflessness.
3. Involve Them in Decision-Making:
Empower your teen by involving them in the decision-making process. Discuss various volunteering options together and let them choose activities they find appealing. When they have a say in what they're doing, they'll feel a sense of ownership and responsibility, making the experience more meaningful. It could be organizing a charity event, getting their friends to help, fundraising for a cause, or even starting a small community project together.
4. Encourage Open Conversations:
Create a safe space for your teen to express their thoughts and feelings about volunteering. Encourage open conversations about their fears, reservations, and expectations. Address their concerns sincerely and patiently. Acknowledge their vulnerability and validate their emotions. By understanding their perspective, you can tailor volunteering experiences that address their worries, ensuring a more comfortable and enriching journey for both of you. Maybe they don’t want to commit to every Saturday to volunteer. Get them to decide what will work for their schedule and they’ll be much more likely to commit and enjoy it.
5. Celebrate Small Wins:
Acknowledge and celebrate every small achievement, no matter how insignificant it might seem. Whether it's a heartfelt smile from a person you helped or a genuine 'thank you,' these moments reinforce the positive impact of your efforts. By celebrating these victories together, you reinforce the value of kindness and empathy, making your volunteering experiences more rewarding and encouraging your teen to continue giving back.
Remember moms, the journey of supporting a teen through mental health challenges is complex, but it can be made lighter through shared experiences like volunteering. By embracing these opportunities together, you not only make a difference in your community but also nurture a stronger, more resilient bond with your teenager. This is the type of connection you want with your teen!
