141. Create a Mindful Teen with Stephanie Santos

In this episode, we have Stephanie Santos who is a mental health therapist that specializes in working with teenagers, who struggle with anxiety and depression brought upon by that pandemic, life, life transitions, and trauma. Today, we delve into the world of teen mental health, offering insights into empowering children and discussing concerns surrounding their medication. We stress the significance of parents demonstrating vulnerability and providing a safe haven for teens to openly express themselves. We explore tools such as journaling, mentorship, and creating mindful spaces to help teenagers navigate stress and cultivate self-awareness. Our conversation touches on the potential risks of excessive medication in children and underscores the importance of uncovering the root causes of emotional challenges. We also address the critical role of nutrition in mental well-being and the shift away from traditional farming practices, emphasizing the value of making mindful food choices for overall health.

“I think the first thing I would say is that parents are doing a good job. Like, it's okay, you don't have to have it all together, you don't have to show up and be perfect.”

• Discussion on supporting adolescents in various aspects of their mental health.

• Shifting teens from victimhood to empowerment by promoting self-awareness and confidence.

• Concerns raised about overmedicating children and the need to explore root causes of emotional issues.

• Emphasis on nutrition's crucial role in mental health and the shift away from traditional farming practices.

• Encouraging parents to model vulnerability and provide open communication spaces for teens.

• Identifying underlying causes is crucial for effective support instead of relying solely on medication.

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