Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Preventing Teen Burnout

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By Dr Bill Maier

Just looking at a secondary school student's schedule book makes me tired. Secondary school students today are busier than ever. Not only does school start early, but after school there's soccer, tuition, piano lessons, gymnastics, events and homework that never seems to end. I don't know how some of them do it.

It's good for teens to stay busy and productive. Not only are they less likely to get into trouble, they're learning valuable work habits for their future careers. But there are dangers we need to watch out for. Teens who try to do too much face the risk of burnout and exhaustion. They can get so busy that nothing gets done very well. Their grades may suffer, leading to worry and depression, even physical or emotional sickness.

If your teen is too busy, it may be time to put the brakes on certain activities. Teach them to say no and to pace themselves. It's better for them to do a few things well than to exhaust themselves trying to do everything.

From TODAY, Voices – Tuesday, 06-Oct-2009


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