Peer Group

Friendships and peer relationships are really important to all teenagers. For teenagers who experience depression or who have engaged in suicidal behavior, a solid support group is essential. As a parent, you may worry about whether your teen is spending time with peers who will support safe, healthy choices. One of the best ways to learn more about who your teen is spending time with is to spend time with them yourself! Get to know your teen’s friends and their parents. Make sure that you exchange contact information with the parents of your teen’s close friends so you can reach them in case of an emergency. If a joint activity/sleepover is planned, check in with the parents of your teenager’s friends to make sure you are all on the same page. It is also a good idea to have the phone number for your teen’s close friends.  If you are concerned that your teen and his/her friends are engaging in risky behaviors such as substance use, make sure they are supervised. When your teen spends time outside your home, set the expectation that you need to know where they are going, who they will be with, what they will be doing, and when they will be home. Click here for more info on supporting healthy peer relationships.