What’s influencing youth today? Presented by, Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW Childhood and adolescent anxiety and depression: How do you know and what do you do when your child or student expresses feelings of depression, anxiety, peer pressure or low self-esteem? This seminar will provide tips for detecting and dealing with these concerns that youth experience at home and at school.

Signs of Disturbance Anxiety and Depression A feeling associated with fear or dread for an negatively anticipated outcome. A feeling associated with a of loss. The loss can be tangible or psychological.

Signs of Disturbance Missed school or poor school performance Changes in eating and/or sleeping habits Withdrawal from friends and/or activities once enjoyed Persistent sadness and hopelessness Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness Poor self-esteem or guilt Overreaction to criticism / Anger and rage / Problems with authority Frequent physical complaints, such as headaches and stomachaches Lack of enthusiasm, low energy or motivation Drug and/or alcohol abuse Thoughts of death or suicide / Suicidal behaviour

What’s influencing youth today? Biology Psychology FamilySociety CHILD

Influences Biology Genetics Pre-natal care Environmental toxins

Influences Psychology Temperament Personality Intelligence Cognitive activity Behaviour Mood - Affect Self-Esteem

Influences Society School Friends Extracurricular activities Synagogue / Church INTERNET Community

Influences Family Intact Blended Single parent Adopted Step Rules, routines Conflict management Emotional expression Nurturance

What’s influencing youth today? Child THE BIG FOUR Family FriendsInternet School

Protective/Prevention Strategies Effective parental communication Regular meals as a family Acknowledging feelings but limiting behaviour Expectations appropriate to age and ability Parental Monitoring Regular communication with school/teachers Problem… Counseling? – Parents always go first! Keep the computer in a public space.

Parental Monitoring Do you know who your teen’s friends are? If your teen is going to be late do they know to call? Do you know what your teen is doing after school? Does your teen tell you who s/he will be with before they go out? Do you know where your teen is when he or she goes out at night? Do you know how your teen spends his or her money? Do you know the parents of your teen’s friends? Do you talk with your teen about their plans with friends?

Final thoughts… Catch them doing something right. Remind your children of the pleasure and pride you take in them. Briefly look in on them when doing homework and show interest and affection. Spend time, not money. Find Joy in Your Children Participate in doing good deeds

What’s influencing youth today? For more information on parenting go to: