Loneliness among young people has reached epidemic levels, with significant implications for their mental health and well-being.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Milena Batanova, Director of Research and Evaluation at Making Caring Common at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Batanova sheds light on the disconnect between parents and teens regarding emotional support and the overwhelming achievement pressure that exacerbates feelings of isolation. Drawing on recent surveys, she reveals that many adolescents prefer confiding in friends rather than their parents, citing a lack of understanding and empathy from adults.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of fostering genuine connections and empathy in parenting, as well as the need for society to prioritize social infrastructure and public education to combat loneliness. Batanova encourages parents to model healthy relationships and engage in meaningful conversations with their children to help them navigate their emotional landscapes more effectively.

Takeaways:

The Making Caring Common project highlights the disconnect between parents' values and teens' priorities regarding caring and achievement.

Loneliness among young people is a growing epidemic, exacerbated by societal pressures and achievement culture.

Empathy is a crucial skill for parents to develop in order to effectively support their children.

Social media contributes to loneliness, as teens feel pressured to present perfect lives online.

Parents should model caring behaviors and prioritize genuine relationships over achievement to foster connection.

Understanding different types of loneliness can help parents identify and address their child's emotional needs.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Paul Sunseri, a child and family clinical psychologist, researcher, author and father of four.

Dr. Sunseri's latest book is called Gentle Parenting Reimagined, which offers a transformative approach to parenting, especially for those struggling with challenging behaviours in their children.

He discusses how traditional gentle parenting techniques often fall short when dealing with oppositional or defiant kids. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional states of children and suggests a shift from engaging during moments of dysregulation to allowing space for them to calm down before re-engaging.

The conversation highlights the critical role of family dynamics in navigating the complexities of modern parenting, especially in the context of technology and external influences.

With practical strategies rooted in evidence-based practices, Dr. Sunseri aims to equip parents with the tools they need to foster better relationships and effective communication with their children.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. David Rosmarin, clinical psychologist, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, founder of the Center for Anxiety, author and father of six .

Anxiety is not an enemy to be eliminated but rather a natural part of life that can be embraced and harnessed for growth, according to Dr. Rosemarin, who distills the alarming rise of anxiety in society, particularly among youth, and challenges the unrealistic expectation of living an anxiety-free life.

He shares insights from his own experiences during the pandemic, highlighting how vulnerability and open communication can strengthen relationships and resilience. With practical advice from his latest book, "Thriving with Nine Tools to Make Your Anxiety Work for You," Dr. Rosemarin emphasizes the importance of recognizing the difference between clinical anxiety and normal emotional responses.

This conversation explores how parents can better support their children through anxiety and also encourages a shift in perspective toward viewing anxiety as a tool for personal development.

Takeaways:

• The expectation of an anxiety-free life contributes significantly to the anxiety epidemic today.
• Normal anxiety can be beneficial, helping us to grow and develop resilience in life.
• Parents should recognize that children's anxiety often reflects normal emotional development and stress responses.
• Open communication about anxiety within the family fosters closeness and acceptance of feelings.
• Integrating spirituality can help individuals and families navigate stress by promoting acceptance.
• Embracing anxiety instead of trying to eliminate it can lead to healthier coping strategies.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com