What to Do When Your Teen is Overwhelmed

Ivy League Prep Academy Podcast

If you’ve ever felt helpless watching your teen struggle with stress, you’re not alone. Many parents want to help but don’t know how to do it in a way that actually works. In this episode, we dive into why today’s teens feel more overwhelmed than ever, the common mistakes even well-meaning parents make, and how to shift your parenting approach to truly support your child. Learn how to move from "boss" to "coach" so your teen can build resilience, confidence, and the skills to manage stress in a healthy way.

💡 Key Takeaways:
🔹 Why today’s teens are more stressed than ever:
✔️ Tougher academics and college admissions pressure
✔️ Social media’s endless comparison trap
✔️ Lack of downtime and play leading to burnout

🔹 The Parenting Shift: Move from being an enforcer to a coach
✔️ Instead of controlling, guide your teen to problem-solve and take ownership
✔️ Teens need trust and independence in small decisions so they can handle big ones
✔️ Support their growth without micromanaging

🔹 Common Mistakes Parents Make & What to Do Instead:
✔️ Comparing them to others → Instead, acknowledge their unique challenges
✔️ Trying to fix everything → Instead, guide them to their own solutions
✔️ Doubling down on control → Instead, pick your battles and give them autonomy where possible

🔹 Actionable Steps to Help Your Teen Manage Stress:
✅ Shift from "boss" to "coach"—ask questions that help them find their own solutions
✅ Regulate yourself first—your calm creates their calm
✅ Create a safe space for conversations—use observations, not accusations
✅ Help them prioritize and reframe negative thinking
✅ Encourage healthy coping habits—sleep, movement, and self-advocacy matter
✅ Build long-term resilience—teach them to see stress as a sign of growth

-----
To register for the Ivy League Challenge, visit our website
To follow on Instagram: @TheIvyLeagueChallenge
To join us on our Facebook group for parents