The Perils of Pushing Kids too Hard, and How Parents Can Learn to Back Off

According to recent studies, kids raised in privileged communities are at high risk for anxiety and depression. In fact, in some places risk rates may be substantially higher than in less affluent communities. Teens may also self medicate by drinking or using drugs to handle pressure and anxiety. What should you do? Experts suggest allowing teens more down time and asking them if they feel they are being pushed too hard or overscheduled. This article is a fascinating wake up call and reinforces much of what I've learned from living in the Netherlands. Kids that have more free play, independence, and less structured schedules feel happier and less anxious. Read the Article