Give your teen time and space while keeping a watchful eye. It is normal for your teen to be sad for a time. But a prolonged time or complete depression is something a parent will have to be on the lookout for and deal with by bringing in some professional help.
Use your active listening skills. When your teen wants to talk, be open to what he has to say without interrupting. He may not want to hear how your first break up went at this time. If there is a lull in the conversation, ask. But keep this time about your teen.
Model appropriate break up behavior. You will need to be a mentor of sorts and not bash the guy/girl your teen was dating. Do not suggestion inappropriate behavior, even in jest to lighten your teen’s mood.
Look for ways to patch your teen’s confidence. Helping him enjoy activities with his social group and finding a hobby will help – eventually. Don’t harp on your teen about getting over the break up, just allow him to do so in time.
Sooner or later your teen is going to want to date again. These ups and downs in our teen’s lives cause stress in ours and we may feel like putting a stop to it by not allowing our teens to date or trying to control their relationship. Don’t do that. Allow your teen to make his choices and be there when he needs you. That is what parenting a teenager is all about.
