A new website which offers practical advice to teenagers and their parents on issues such as depression, domestic abuse, parental separation and death, has gone live.
Teenhelp has been established by the children's charity Barnardos in conjunction with the Family Support Agency.
In addition to the new website, a free series of 'Parenting Positively' booklets that contain practical information for parents of children betweent the ages of 6 and 12 years old, have also been published.
“What is unique about Teenhelp is that it combines online guidance for teenagers with linked guidance for parents on the same themes,” said Fergus Finlay, chief executive of Barnardos.
“It is hoped that this will make it easier for parents and teenagers to talk to each other about such difficult issues as coping with death or separation or mental health issues. The teenage years can be very difficult for both teenagers and parents," he added.
Speaking at the launch of the site and booklets in Dublin this afternoon, Minister for Social and Family Affairs Mary Hanafin said that all families face pressures and need practical guidance to help them thorough difficulties.
“No families are immune from the stresses and strains that come with modern life, so having practical, targeted information available is vital,” said Ms Hanafin.
"Teenhelp is targeted at teenagers and will be a great support to them on a range of issues they may encounter throughout the various stages of their teenage years. The booklets will help parents cope with the challenges that may arise and provide understanding of the changes their teenager may be experiencing,” she added.
Teenhelp can be accessed at www.barnardos.ie/teenhelp. The ’Parenting Positively’ booklets are available from Barnardos Training and Resource Service on 01-4549699.
