Author name: Felicia Catching

Your teen’s silence might be louder than any words. Watch for shifts like trouble sleeping, mood swings, isolation, and changes in grades or friends. These are not “just phases”; they’re signs. Teens may not say “I’m not okay,” but their behavior will show you. Create safe space. Ask, “How are you, really?” Then stay. Listen without judgment. Sometimes, showing up is more powerful than having the perfect words. Get support from school counselors or mental health pros if needed. You don’t need all the answers; you just need to be present. And that presence might be their first step toward healing.

Raising a teen of purpose isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about helping them discover who they are and what they’re here to do. It shows up in everyday moments: shared meals, late-night car rides, even in conflict. Teens crave meaning, even when they push you away. Purpose gives them direction, resilience, and a reason to keep going. When they know their “why,” their choices shift. They lead with intention. As parents, mentors, and caregivers, we’re not just surviving the teen years, we’re shaping leaders. Let’s guide them toward purpose, one honest, connected moment at a time.