Troubled teens will eventually be adults. Many adults were once trouble teens. Doesn't it seem then that more adults would be capable of handing teens who have attitude problems, behavior issues, and show little respect for others?

Troubled teens often need professional help. When parents hear this they may feel they are being told they are failures. This is not the case. As an example: If you have never worked on a diesel engine, would you know where to start if one stopped working? Probably not. Why would you be expected to 'fix' a troubled teen if you have never dealt with the issues the teen has?

Someone who is specically trained to deal with issues that must be addressed when a teen is troubled can make a difference. During our teen years we may have suffered through hormonal changes, and other issues that often could not be explained to us. However, in today's world more help is available for kids who need assistance.

How do you find help? What if you can't afford to pay someone? How will you know if your child is troubled? How will you know who to ask?

If your child has difficulty being kind to family members, or neighbors, you already know there is an issue. Have you received notices from school that your teen is not cooperating, or not completing assignments? These are clues you should not overlook. And don't shrug your shoulders if you have a teen who is a loner, and wants to stay in a dark room for days playing games. Some antisocial behavior can be chalked up to typical moodiness we all have. Teens have a right to privacy, a right to avoid people they don't like, and a right to want some alone time. But, it is obvious to most of us when it is too much.

Some churches and community groups offer professional services through their volunteer network. Your local health department will also have some information about what might be available in your area. Your health insurance may pay for a portion of such care. Don't avoid getting help because you are concerned about money.

Use caution when explaining to a teen that you are seeking help. An already rebellious youth may become outraged when you speak of your concern. Include yourself in any meeting or help session you plan. Initially, and sometimes it is only for a few minutes, a person helping the teen will want to see you as well.

Once you have taken this step, don't pry into the sessions your teen is having. Even if group sessions are part of the plan for your teen, don't ask questions that are not generic. Asking if they enjoyed their session, or liked the person in charge is a generic, innocent question. Asking what's wrong with the green haired kid in combat boots may be pushing it!

Don't wait if you think your teen has issues. Do something today.

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