Navigating Parenting Challenges and Supporting Teen Mental Health

In this episode of the EZ Conversations podcast, Furkhan interviews Susan Caso, a seasoned therapist with over 20 years of experience. Susan shares her insights on the increasing rates of suicide, particularly among men, and the impact of the pandemic on mental health. She introduces her book, 'The Parenting Connection,' which aims to help families build stronger connections. They discuss the challenges of modern parenting, especially regarding screen time and social media's influence on teens. Susan also talks about her role in the 'LIV Project' and its efforts to raise awareness about suicide through a documentary and community initiatives. The conversation covers key strategies for fostering open, trusting relationships with children, the importance of emotional transparency, and proactive approaches to discussing mental health and suicidal ideation.As a mom of three with grown and middle school-aged children, Caso understands the complexities of raising kids in today’s hyper-connected world. Her book draws on her 20 years of clinical experience, sharing personal insights and proven strategies for fostering a deep emotional bond between caregivers and teenagers. The Parent-Teen Connection is more than just a guide—it's a roadmap for parents looking to cultivate what she calls "connectedness" within their families to safeguard teens in today's world.  From building trust and belonging through the “mom/dad” role vs. the” parent” role to enhancing communication with their teens utilizing what she terms "the volley,” Caso gives families straightforward advice from both the standpoint of a therapist and a mother who has seen it all.Susan holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education from the University of Colorado and undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Kansas. She studied Dr. Bruce Perry’s Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics and was trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), developed by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Les Greenberg.Learn more at SusanCaso.com.00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:00 Susan's Background and Experience02:36 Parenting Challenges in the Digital Age05:40 The LIFT Project and Suicide Awareness07:37 Proactive Approaches to Suicidal Ideation09:42 Building Connection and Trust with Teens13:14 Balancing Support and Independence31:11 Addressing Suicidal Thoughts in Therapy34:46 Supporting Friends and Family with Suicidal Thoughts40:17 The Importance of Emotional Transparency43:38 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSponsors of the Podcast: BetterHelp: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://betterhelp.com/ez10⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 10% off your first month of therapy WeShape: https://weshape.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/dcfogwyuk?a_aid=FurkhanDandia&a_bid=d7508fa8 for 35% all plans. 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Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist–client relationship. The views expressed are my own and are separate from my clinical practice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.