Dysregulation and teens seem to go hand in hand! You may have a teenager that acts out when they are upset, or more likely you have a teenager that disappears and withdraws. Both are forms of dysregulation.

Help your teenager identify the tools that allow them to process through their feelings: journaling, art, exercise, talking with a friend, getting in nature, etc. Them help them to create a "menu" of ideas for when they are feeling out of control emotionally. Post that menu in their room so that they can reach for it when they need to.

Try texting with your teenager when you sense something is going on with them. Even if they are just in another part of the house, texting is less vulnerable than having a conversation and you may be able to get them to open up this way.

These are challenging years, but remember to use curiosity and connection to understand your teen better!