This week is International Women's Day (IWD) and is celebrated on 8 March. The theme is “Give to Gain”: when we support each other, we gain from this support.
On IWD we can focus on the achievements and hurdles faced by women in our world today. Some of these hurdles, for example mental health challenges, start in adolescence.
Adolescence is a time of huge development when young girls struggle with pressures, body image concerns, teenage relationships, online issues.
If you notice any concerning behaviors such as:
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Excessive concern about weight and appearance,
seek support for your daughter by:
- Providing education about the changes that come with puberty.
- Fostering an environment where girls feel comfortable discussing their feelings.
- Engage in activities to boost self-esteem,
- Watch, read about, research positive female role models and mentors to
- Nurture a healthy self-perception and confidence. Remember you will be different to your friend.
- Promote the use of counselling services and mental health resources to talk about yourself.
Here are some links that may be helpful:
- Puberty for Girls
- How to Be a Role Model for Girls
- Inspiring Role Models for Teenage Girls
- Teens Mental Health Support