Parents and teens, one of the best things you can do to alleviate depression, anxiety, and a struggle with identity and purpose is get a job. I know it adds stress in a certain way, but in my observations, teens who work have several things:
1. Increased confidence.
2. A better understanding of money.
3. Can talk to people with good eye contact.
4. Lower anxiety.
5. More friends.
6. A place where they belong outside school and home.
7. Discipline that isn’t coming from parents or teachers.
8. More realistic ambitions and goals.
9. A better sense of marketable skills when they choose a college major.
10. More purpose, which leads to lower anxiety and depression overall.

I know this isn’t a foolproof solution to every problem. However, it has made a huge positive difference in the lives of many of my clients. I think it’s worth a try.

Helping teens grow and families improve connection,
Lauren Goodman, MS, MFT