How to unlock the world of teenagers

In this interview, Jessica Peck, DNP APRN CPNP-PC CNE CNL FAANP FAAN, pediatric nurse practitioner, discusses the key takeaways from her book, "Behind Closed Doors: A Guide to Help Parents and Teens Navigate Through Life's Toughest Issues." Peck outlines the mental health struggles teenagers often face, and how her book discusses these issues.

Having seen the rise of mental health issues in teenagers, along with personal experience with her kids, Peck has seen how kids are struggling. She understands the pain parents are feeling when not knowing how to help their teenagers. Her hope is to see "happy parents and healthy kids."

There are 12 topics discussed in the book, and Peck has described it as a year-long journey for parents to improve their relationships with their teenagers. Topics include mental health, substance abuse, sexting, disordered eating, social justice, and more.

"Today's teens do desire connection with their parents," Peck said, "and most parents want to connect with their teens, but they don't know how to do that in a way that feels authentic."

Social media, sexting, vaping, and cyberbullying are just a few new challenges kids today face. Peck wants to give parents and grandparents a fresh perspective to help them communicate with their kids. She encourages parents and healthcare providers to continue supporting kids as they grow older.

Find out more about, "Behind Closed Doors: A Guide to Help Parents and Teens Navigate Through Life's Toughest Issues" at https://www.drnursemama.com/