Studies show that U.S. teens spend an average of 8.5 hrs per day on their electronics. Unfortunately, developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, and risk-taking behavior. An area of the brain, called prefrontal cortex, which specializes in judgment, impulse control, and planning is still developing in adolescence. A new studyContinue reading “New Study on Teens’ Electronics Use”
Category Archives: Stress
The Problem With 13 Reasons Why
Mental health professionals have become increasingly concerned about the new hit Netflix show and its portrayal of the main character, Hannah’s, suicide. While I am very glad that the show can start conversations about bullying, sexual assaults in high schools, and teen suicides, I am also very concerned about how the show incorrectly portrays someContinue reading “The Problem With 13 Reasons Why”
Teaching Your Teen to Cope with Stress
Teens who spend a lot of time on the internet are as likely to become depressed and suicidal as teens who use drugs.
School Anxiety
Helping Your Child Cope With Anxiety In Middle School/High School Most children will have anxiety about starting Middle School or High School. They worry about being good enough for sports or other electives, being smart enough for their preAP or AP classes, and fitting in with peers who all seem taller, prettier, smarter, more sociallyContinue reading “School Anxiety”
On Bullying and Cyberbullying
My Child Is Being Bullied. What Should I Do? There are more and more stories from children and media about bullying in the schools. Finding out that your child is being bullied is frightening and you may wonder how much to worry and what to do to help your child. Here are some basic tipsContinue reading “On Bullying and Cyberbullying”
Elena Mikalsen, Ph.D. Author/Psychologist 