Counselling teenage girls
Girls love to talk!
A recent Stony Brook University study has found that too much talk about their problems may lead middle school-aged girls into more depressive symptoms (Scientific America Mind, July/August 2009).
Girls tend to co-ruminate about their problems – they spend their time dwelling on problems. This often leads them to feel sad and hopeless about situations and these problems remain the centre of their attention. While talking and sharing with others may promote healthy relationships with peers, it can also lead to more depressive symptoms.
Girls tend to analyse and discuss their problems. This often leads to a negative thought cycle. Often their peers are uncertain of what advice to give to their friends and they simply talk about an issue, rather than find constructive solutions.
Skilled psychologist and counsellors play an important part, especially with teenage girls as they can help these young people develop coping strategies, look at different options and perspectives, and help re-frame dysfunctional thing patterns and styles. It is important for young people to talk about their problems, but talking with a skilled professional is essential.
School Psychology Services provides expert counselling to help young people manage their problems and develop positive coping skills to manage everyday life. Navigating through the teenage years is difficult, however with support and counselling you can have wind in your sails to make the journey a little easier!