ECHO MALIBU Teen Treatment Center Offers Support for Father’s Day Related Depression, Anxiety and Substance Abuse

Malibu, CA (PRWEB) June 15, 2006

Both anecdotal evidence and informal studies support the idea that Father’s Day represents a time in which many Americans experience a rise in depression, anxiety and substance abuse. The data that supports such a belief suggests that the risk is highest in families in which one or more members is an adolescent.

According to Cole Rucker, M.A., co-founder of Echo Malibu Youth Treatment Center, http://www.echomalibu.com ,there are many likely reasons. “We see Father’s Day, as with all holidays as potentially a very difficult time for adolescents and their families. When you are in the midst of the individuation process, any family oriented event can be stressful. Youth tend to be more focused on peers than family, even on Father’s Day. This can be difficult for parents whose primary focus is appropriately, the family. “

Dr. Jeffrey Nalin, Executive Director of Echo Malibu adds, “As with adults, adolescents may experience great disappointment around any holiday if they’re expecting a holiday that is a direct reflection of what the media has told them is ideal. Most families fall short.” He goes on to state, “Teens may also pick up on the anxiety of adults, the disappointment that they are not emerging into what their parent’s had hoped they would be, or simply be impacted by the collective stress a holiday can bring. This is also a time that unresolved Father issues my come to a head.”

Rucker adds, “The bottom line is that if you are talking about at-risk youth, any added stressor can serve as a trigger for substance abuse or other problem behaviors. Parents should watch for signs that indicate that their child might be in trouble.” According to Dr. Nalin, “Some of the signs parents should look for include: changes in sleeping habits or appetite, social isolation or retreat, changes in dress or appearance, a change in friends, or loss of interest in pursuits that have been of importance. It isn’t always easy for parents to determine the nature or severity of an emerging problem.”

In an effort to assist parents, Echo Malibu Teen treatment Center, http://www.echomalibu.com , is offering free parenting classes throughout the summer. Echo Malibu also has extra counselors on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance to families who may be in crisis. Parents or youth may call 800 780 ECHO to speak with a counselor, or set up an appointment to participate in the parenting classes, free of charge. Echo Malibu is a leader in the field of treatment for youth struggling with chemical dependency, emotional and behavioral issues.

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