- 1). Teach by example. The UCSF study group aimed to reduce stress in teenage students by celebrating and amplyfing postiive events. Do this both for yourself and for your teens, Develop the habit of gratitude, being thankful openly for the good things in life and avoiding gloom and cynicism around teenagers.
- 2). Practice mindfulness and teach your teen to do this. Reappraise negative patterns of thought. Teeagers tend to experience heightened extremes of mood. If your teen makes statements such as "Nobody likes me," do not laugh at her, dismiss her statement or accuse her of being melodramatic. Listen supportively and challenge that thought, reminding her of good times with friends.
- 3). Remind the teen of personal strengths. If he is a thoughtful person, for instance, tell him this. This enhances his self-esteem and sets a positive train of thought in motion. If he perceives himself in this way, he is more likely to be even more thoughtful in the future.
- 4). Help the teen to set attainable and realistic goals. She will enjoy achieving the goals, and this forms a good habit for the future. Encourage her to perform acts of kindness. This is not only altruistic but it also enhances self-esteem and produces positive energy.