When Teens Run Away: Understanding the Causes and Taking Action

Although adolescence has always been a difficult time in life, today's teens are under more pressure than ever before. Teenagers are negotiating a complicated web of expectations and influences, from social media comparisons to academic pressure. Unfortunately, this can lead to some teens running away from home because the load becomes too great for them. In this blog, we'll examine the fundamental causes of this upsetting phenomenon and provide parents with advice on what to do when teens run away. We'll also stress how important it is for parents and teens alike to have a solid support network, such as our team at Liahona Academy, during these trying times.

The Dilemma of the Modern Teen

While each teen is different, there are common pressures that influence them during their teen years. Making things even more difficult is the common distance parents feel from many teens as they strive for independence and control. This normal behavior, coupled with today’s pressures, can make it difficult to pinpoint when parents should be alarmed. This is why many parents are surprised when their teens run away. On the other hand, the choice to run away might be the final straw in a long line of defiant behavior. Either way, parents need a strong support system to help them navigate clearly. We will talk about this more later, but for now, let’s investigate the issues that teens struggle with most today.

• Academic Pressure: The rivalry for admission to prestigious schools and universities is fiercer than ever, and today's youth must meet high academic standards. The obsession with getting good grades and the fear of failing might get to be too much.
• Peer Pressure and Social Media: As social media has grown, so too has the level of pressure. Teens frequently feel inadequate and pressured to live up to false expectations because they contrast their real lives with well-manicured online personas.
• Mental Health Difficulties: An increasing proportion of adolescents are battling mental health conditions like despair and anxiety. The stigma associated with discussing these issues may make getting help more challenging for them. At Liahona, our staff recognizes this stigma and offers a well-rounded and peer-positive approach to teaching teens to be empowered.
• Family Disputes: Disagreements with parents or guardians can cause a great deal of anguish. Teens may consider running away due to disagreements, misunderstandings, or strained relationships.

Why Do Teens Choose to Run Away?

Teens reasons for running away can be as varied as the struggles they face today. Beyond what was mentioned above, the following might also trigger the decision:

• Escaping Stress: Teens may consider running away as a means of escaping the extreme stress they experience in their social lives, in school, or at home.
• Seeking Independence: Teenagers frequently yearn for self-reliance and self-governance. One's longing for independence may cause one to act impulsively and decide to run away.
• Attention-seeking: Sometimes fleeing could be a signal for assistance. Teens who feel mistreated or misinterpreted could take drastic measures to win over their loved ones.

What Can Parents Do?

One of the best things parents can do for their teens is to nurture the parent-teen relationship long before they hit the teen years. This way, a foundation has already been laid, giving their teen a place to land when they struggle. In addition, parents can focus on the following tips:

• Open Communication: Keep lines of communication open and judgment-free with your adolescent. Invite them to share their thoughts and worries. Making them feel heard and appreciated can be achieved in large part through active listening.
• Mental Health Support: Recognize the warning symptoms of mental health problems and, if necessary, seek professional assistance. Your teen should understand that you will support them in getting treatment and that it's acceptable to ask for assistance.
• Have Reasonable Expectations: Recognize that your child might have unique talents and goals. Allow them to follow their interests and passions rather than placing unreasonably high standards on their academic performance or job.
• Establish Trust: A strong parent-child connection is built on trust. Demonstrate to your teen that you are here to guide, not to control, and that you have faith in their ability to make wise decisions.

Understanding the Importance of a Support Network

Parenting teens can be a bumpy ride, so it's important for parents and kids to have a solid support network in place. Significant changes in a person's physical, emotional, and cognitive functioning occur during adolescence. It is also the time when young people begin to investigate their independence and sense of self. As mentioned, teens may struggle with a variety of problems throughout this stage, including mood swings, dangerous behaviors, and scholastic stress, in addition to peer pressure. Parents who have a support system, which can consist of friends, family, counselors, and teachers, can receive much-needed direction, assurance, and a platform to discuss their worries and experiences. A support system can also provide guidance and understanding, assisting parents in navigating the challenges of adolescence and making well-informed decisions for the welfare of their teenagers. In addition, a robust support system can act as a safety net for teenagers, giving them access to a variety of viewpoints, emotional stability, and dependable adults they can confide in or turn to when they have issues. A support system also improves communication and fortifies the bond between parents and teenagers. Adolescents frequently struggle with ambivalence, and having a support network can help close the gap between generations and promote honest communication between parents and their teenagers. By doing this, you can make sure that teenagers feel supported, heard, and understood, which promotes stronger bonds and more trust. Furthermore, the support system can help parents spot early indicators of possible problems like substance misuse, mental health disorders, or difficulties in school, allowing them to take appropriate action and get the help they need. In general, it is impossible to exaggerate the value of having a support system when raising teenagers. It helps parents and teenagers navigate the turbulent adolescent years more smoothly by offering a safety net, emotional support, and priceless guidance. Additionally, there are times, such as when teenage behavior becomes dangerous or illegal, that the support system parents built needs to expand to include experienced professionals. That’s where we come in, helping both parents and teens find a clear path to finding their way back to each other.

Contact Our Team For Support Today

Teenagers nowadays face a great deal of strain, and some may consider running away to get away from their problems. It is imperative that parents comprehend the intricate dynamics of this age group and offer the assistance and direction required to overcome the obstacles they encounter. Through encouraging candid communication, raising awareness of mental health issues, and creating a solid support network, parents may assist their kids in overcoming these challenges and coming out of this trying time with resilience and a strong sense of self-worth. If you’re concerned about your teen’s behavior and need support, contact our team today.