Suzanne Jarvis

Courtesy photo Wellness — having one’s physical and emotional needs for safety, connection and confidence met — is the beginning of overcoming anxiety, depression and many of the other difficulties so many of our children are going through. You may have noticed something unusual recently in the news and among your friends and family. Anxiety and depression, especially among teenagers, is rising drastically.

Stock photo Chronic school absenteeism results in students falling behind in fundamental skills. Have you ever tried to “cram” before a dentist appointment? After neglecting to floss for several weeks, you spend 20 minutes going around each tooth thoroughly, then brushing until your teeth bleed. You may even unearth the oral rinse from the dark recesses of your cabinet. All of this in an effort to hide the fact that you haven’t been taking very good care of your teeth. Does it work?

Stock photo Daily set routines can be beneficial through providing structure to our lives, which reduces stress and strengthens our self-discipline. Creating emotional safety for teens can be done in many ways. Assuring them it’s OK to fail is one way. Celebrating their unique personalities by withholding judgment is another. I recently came across the statement, “There is safety in routines.” I believe this to be true for children and adults.