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Noting the rise in prevalence and severity of adolescent anxiety in recent years, mental health therapist Galano maintains her guidebook is aimed at helping parents "supporting teenagers in coping with their anxiety," and preparing them for a healthy future. The book is divided into three sections. Part One examines accurate recognition of teenage anxiety. Part Two covers methods of support (including communication, self-esteem, and "leading by example"). Meanwhile, Part Three offers resources for additional support for both teenager and parent. Drawing from her clinical work case studies, Galano provides suggested exercises intended for parental insight, noting that some topics covered "may be uncomfortable" to consider. Encouraging an open-minded perspective, Galano maintains that effective support for healing and wellbeing requires honest introspection and provision of safe spaces for the anxious teenager.
Galano does an admirable job covering such material for the general adult reader seeking actionable, effective information regarding treatment for issues of teenage anxiety. By distinguishing between "normal teenage stress" and situations indicative of clinical anxiety, and by encouraging "mindful, non-judgmental" observation and active listening, a wealth of science-based tools is presented, all targeted toward helping teens navigate adolescence into healthy adulthood. Significantly, Galano zeros in on what she terms "the Gen Z Effect," where, unlike biological and psychological factors, daily dependence on and usage of connected devices and social media have completely changed the way most teenagers today connect, communicate, and express themselves. Galano provides an insightful, realistic analysis of the cons and pros that reliance upon such technology has wrought for today's average adolescent. The professional advice within these pages can serve both teens and their parents well as they embark on such a substantial voyage.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review