Response for Teens

Quarantine has increased anxiety and depression in many young people across the board.  However, if you identify as LGBTQ+, being cut off from support networks, like friends and GSAs, and possibly living in non-affirming spaces, may make these intense emotions even worse.  While it may feel like it, you are not alone. 

You love your family, but you do not always get along. As you look toward spending more time with your family, are you excited or dreading arguments and annoying siblings? 

All relationships can be strained during times of fear and uncertainly – family, friendships, and romantic relationships.

Why are people playing video games while driving? A look at the science behind why video games are so hard to put down.

We are appalled – though sadly, not surprised – that the makers of the Juul e-cigarette device disregarded early evidence that it was hooking teens on its product.

Rapper T.I. is being criticized after recently revealing that he asks his daughter's doctor if her hymen is intact. His behavior, and obsession, over his daughter’s virginity is more than troubling – it also goes against what we stand for at Response for Teens.
 

Does video gaming cause violence? In this article originally published in Psychology Today, Response for Teens therapist Andrew Fishman, MSW, LSW shows that the research asks you to think again.

There’s a new teen drama on HBO that parents will want to know about. Euphoria follows "a group of high school students as they navigate drugs, sex, identity, trauma, social media, love and friendship." Euphoria will no doubt attract a teen audience. JCFS Chicago Response for Teens encourages parents and caregivers to watch Euphoria – and other teen-oriented shows – with your children. Here are some additional tips for talking with your kids about provocative media.

Congratulations to all the teen participants and adult leaders on another successful Operation Snowball 2019! At the end of February teens from across Chicagoland came together to participate in Operation Snowball, our annual winter teen retreat planned entirely by teens.

Children and teens are spending more and more time playing video games online with their friends. For most, this is a positive experience, allowing them to communicate with others even when they are unable to physically be with them. This is particularly true for people with difficulty spending time with others in-person, like those with major depressive disorder, autism spectrum disorder and social anxiety disorder.  

This unconventional method of communication is helpful in fostering connections while building the skills and confidence necessary to interact face-to-face. Although steps should be taken to ensure children’s safety online, online video games are a large part of the lives of young people and should be recognized as a source of social support.