Welcome
Adolescence is a period of time marking the transition between childhood and adulthood. It is a process that involves biological, physiological, psychological, and emotional changes. Adolescents and their families often find this time a stressful one.
Adolescents are like chameleons. They are constantly changing to adapt to their world around them. They try on different clothes, they try on different personalities, and their social group takes on a much bigger and more important role in their lives. They must endure many stressful situations during this transition, in order to figure out who they are and where they fit in the world.
Adolescents with Developmental and/or Learning Disabilities are not immune to this transition time. Parents may notice that behaviors or mannerisms that were manageable in childhood are not so manageable anymore. Their child may not be tolerating those changes in themselves, or the world around them. New behaviors may emerge that causes the family concern. School issues often arise during this time and that creates more stress for the adolescent and their family. Adolescents with Developmental and Learning Disabilities are at higher risk for depression and anxiety disorders and other psychiatric disorders.
Many parents wonder if the behavior they are seeing in their teen or young adult is “normal adolescence” or is it a problem. If parents have to question this, they are usually concerned and need guidance. Adolescence is often a time that places stress on families. Sometimes this stress needs to be addressed by professionals.