Free Program to Help Families Deal with Teen Stress

It's no surprise that many teens suffer from stress, and that can sometimes lead to dealing with it in unhealthy ways.

That's why Council Rock's North and South PTOs have once again partnered with the Coalition for Healthy Youth to present a health and wellness program next week.

"Under Pressure" will help parents learn more about mental health issues, drug and alcohol abuse and their signs, depression, bullying and other related issues.

The program will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, at the in Newtown.

"This year we felt that it was important to raise awareness about the behaviors our kids demonstrate when coping with all the stresses in their lives," said South PTO President Denise Brooks. "The pressure kids are under often leads to binge drinking, prescription drug abuse, anxiety, depression and more."

The program's intent is to put the issues into context so that parents can learn the signs then how to approach them. They will have health professionals on hand to answer questions and several first-hand testimonies from young adults who have experienced some of the issues. 

"It should be a really powerful evening," Brooks said.

What's important to remember, Brooks said, is that parents play a huge role in their child's development and they can help prevent these types of problems. There are also effective strategies to deal with them and many programs in place to provide support as well.

The event is free and open to the public. Contact CRCHY@crsd.org for more information.