Each new school year brings new adventures as well as new relationships for teens. These new relationships can be tricky and present challenges that are difficult to navigate. For most school aged students, friendships are what keeps them excited and motivated about going to school in general. Keeping this in mind, we can see teenage friendships as beneficial for mental health wellness rather than problematic. Helping a teen choose the right friend can feel like climbing Mount Everest at times. The goal is not to take away their autonomy at this stage, but to help them improve their decision-making skills.
Friendships can be a great support system for teens if they know their values and approach situations with courage. Here are four tips to give your teen as they navigate their old and new friendships this school year.
Tip #1 - Surround yourself with friends that keep you accountable and remind you of your own goals.
Tip #2 - Remove yourself from groups that aim to hurt others and engage in harmful behavior.
Tip #3 - Surround yourself with people that you can trust and be vulnerable with.
Tip #4 - Remove yourself from groups whose values do not align with yours.
Remember the goal is to guide as they lean into their morals and values. Sometimes the best school year starts with one decision that ends with lifelong friendships. We choose to believe that this school year will be one of those for your teen. Be a nonjudgemental, listening ear for them as best you can. If you find they are continuing to have problems with friends, counseling  or additional support may be the next step for them. And as always, lead with love.
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