Healthy adolescent relationships

Bullies tend to pick on the people they think do not fit in. It might be because of how they look or act, race or religion, or their sexual preference. Some bullies might even be physically abusive. Often times people might be picked on for no apparent reason at all.

If you, or someone you know are being bullied, try these links for support and guidance:

• Helpguide.org
• National Bullying Prevention Center

Teens can be hard to talk with. And starting a discussion with them about sensitive topics can be even harder.

Many people feel they might ask a question wrong or react poorly when they hear an unexpected answer. Several techniques can help with lines of communication.

See these resources:

• U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services (Office of Adolescent Health)
• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• HealthyChildren.org
• Mayo Clinic

During the adolescent years kids are trying to figure out who they are and how they fit in. Part of fitting in is learning how to manage feelings of being judged and accepted by one's peers.

See more information about peer pressure:

• American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - Peer Pressure
• Raising Children Network - Peer Pressure and Influence; Teenagers

All teens deal with stress. But for some, the stress becomes significant and interferes with their life.

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry has information on how teens and adolescents can manage stress.