Van Dyck Law Group - Q1 2025

Decode Teen Mood Swings Help Your Teen Through Their Emotional Ups and Downs

WHEN IT’S MORE THAN JUST MOOD SWINGS It’s essential to be vigilant about signs indicating a deeper issue than typical adolescent moodiness. Some red flags are persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, or changes in behavior like an increase or decrease in eating or sleeping. These symptoms could suggest underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP If you observe persistent signs of distress or disruptive mood swings that interfere with your teen’s daily functioning, it might be time to seek professional help. Mental health issues are absolutely treatable, and early intervention can make a significant difference. Share your concerns with your child’s pediatrician, or consider working with a mental health professional. Counseling and therapy can provide a safe space for your teen to process their emotions and develop effective coping strategies. When you understand the complexities of your teen’s emotions and know when to act, you can help guide them through the tumultuous years of adolescence with empathy and support.

Being a teenager comes with a roller coaster of emotions. While mood swings are generally a normal part of growing up, they can be a red flag for more serious issues. The usual causes of teen mood swings are hormonal changes, stress, and the search for self-identity. Still, it’s just as vital to recognize when these fluctuations are atypical or indicate something more in order to help you support your teen safely. SUPPORT YOUR TEEN THROUGH HIGHS AND LOWS Staying connected with your teen is essential to understanding their mindset. Always try to engage in open conversations that allow them to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. This connection can provide a stable foundation of trust, but these three strategies can help manage those tricky emotional waters: • Remain Calm: You must stay composed even when your teen’s emotions are high. Your calmness can create a more soothing environment for them. • Encourage Self-Expression: Inspire your teen to explore their feelings through creative outlets such as music, art, or writing. This expression can provide a healthy channel for their emotions. • Promote Healthy Habits: Regular physical activity and proper sleep can significantly improve mood and overall well-being.

Have You Updated Your Estate Plan Lately? Plan Today, Protect Tomorrow

As the famed investor Warren Buffett once said, “Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” That insight from one of the nation’s most forward-thinking investors is well- suited to planning for future long-term care and end-of-life needs.

Among the questions to consider: Have you prepared, at a minimum, a durable power of attorney, a medical power of attorney, and a last will and testament? These documents not only ensure your wishes will be carried out, but they also spare your loved ones from having to make difficult choices for you if you are incapacitated. Is there a family member who may need special support after your death? (If that dependent is a teen with special needs who is nearing the age of 18, planning for their needs before they reach legal independence is urgent!) In addition, might a loved one need to move into an assisted living community or skilled nursing home in the future? If so, laying the

financial groundwork through long-term care insurance or planning for Medicaid eligibility is essential. Your plans must also keep pace with life changes. If you have moved, married, or had children since your last estate plan update, or if you have gotten divorced, had a death in the family, or simply experienced a change of heart, all of these transitions should be reflected in an updated long- term care and estate plan. If you don’t define your intentions, the state of New Jersey will do it for you! Call us today to arrange an estate-plan review and consultation. We will help ensure a secure future for you and your family!

Have you planted a tree to protect yourself and your loved ones in the future?

As many of us enjoy a burst of energy with the new year, this is a great time to think about organizing, updating, and completing your long-term care and estate plans. Only 32% of Americans even have a will, let alone a comprehensive estate plan covering future health and long-term care needs, according to 2024 data from Caring.com.

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