Happy Brains, Happy Teens: Improving Teen Mood By Changing Habits

She lists seven different habits individuals can do on a daily basis to feel happier. These seven habits can improve teen mood, as well as the moods of parents (so you can handle the stress of raising a teen with a smile!) The habits she described include:

• Focusing on what an individual has rather than what they lack.  By thinking about your own positive attributes, you can increase the levels of serotonin in your body.
• Keep constantly reminding yourself that things you may be frustrated about are merely products of electricity flowing throughout your brain. Focusing on a positive new choice every day for 45 days without fail can help the electricity flow to a new part of your brain which can improve mood.
• Laughing on a regular  basis: Laughter releases endorphins which can make you feel happy. So tell jokes to your child to boost teen mood!
• Take steps towards an expected reward: By anticipating a reward, such as a promotion or good grades in the case of teens, your body releases dopamine. Dopamine makes you happier in general.

Benefits of Optimism

Another way to feel happier is to think positively rather than negatively. Positive thinking increases serotonin in  the body, which can help your brain function at peak capacity, improving your mood and making you more alert in general.

Helping Your Struggling Teen

If your teen is struggling with teen mood issues or mental health struggles,it may be time to get them help. ViewPoint Center, a teen assessment center for young people ages 12-17, can help assess what struggles your teen is going through and find an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

For more information about ViewPoint Center, please call 801-825-5222 today.