Losing a parent changes a child’s life in unfathomable ways. Unfortunately, it usually happens more than people realize. It is estimated that about 1 in 11 children will lose a parent or sibling before their 18th birthday in the US. There is no perfect book or program that adults can use to help kids process …
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Why Can’t My Kid Have Caffeine in Treatment?
Your teen may already be upset about going into treatment. Then they hear there will be no energy drinks, no coffee runs, and maybe not even their usual caffeinated fizzy drink. As a parent, you might be tempted to think that it’s too much. But caffeine limits in treatment are about helping your teen fix …
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How to Approach Your Child’s Grief While You Are Grieving Yourself
Grief is heavy. It is even heavier if both you and your child are grieving. It is estimated that at least 6 million children in the United States experience the death of a parent before their 18th birthday. This means you may find yourself trying to anchor a child’s life when your own ship is …
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How Trauma Impacts Brain Development
A teenager who suddenly snaps or freezes may be reacting to past trauma. Adolescent trauma often affects executive functions. It can severely impact brain development if left unaddressed. Teen trauma is quite widespread. Approximately two-thirds of adults have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience in the US during adolescence. While these statistics might be …
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The Value of Routine & Structure of Residential Treatment
If your teenager is struggling to wake up for school, skips breakfast, or just can’t quite show up for appointments, it’s time to work on a routine. Routines and structure give teenagers a sense of stability, predictability, and control during a stage of life that can feel emotionally and socially overwhelming. One study found that …
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