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The transition period between childhood and adulthood is extremely important and one has to tread gingerly. This is also a stage that has to be handled with extreme caution by parents as this is the time that kids seem to grow apart from parents and family causing deep hurt and misunderstanding. As a teen you are suddenly struggling to establish your own identity. You feel you are old enough to take all important decisions and while this feeling gives you a great high, it is also the cause for loneliness because in the process, you are alienating yourself from your parents. It could lead to depression as you combat moods that you never knew existed. The biological changes in you body are also a root cause for the mood swings. So how do you handle these changes and the havoc they cause?

• It will do you good to remember that you are not alone in your feelings. Most teens go through this though the degree may vary.
• Whenever you are emotionally disturbed or angry, try to cool down a bit, catch your breath and then tackle the situation.
• Talking about your problem, discussing with close friends and even talking about it with your parents instead of closing the door in their faces may help to a great extent. Should you feel totally overwhelmed, you may find it helpful if you talk to a doctor or counselor. Never internalize your problems they will only get compounded.
• Joining a gym or an exercise class may help you get rid of stress. Take up some game that will take your mind off your problems and calm you down considerably.
• Are you getting enough sleep? Discos and parties are a fine way of celebrating your new-found independence, but keep it within limits. Adequate sleep is important if you want to feel fresh and healthy.
• Take up an interesting project. Be creative and explore your talents. Bring the writer, musician or artist in you to the fore and pour your heart into your hobby.
• Sometimes, you may just feel like bursting into tears. Even a small thing can make you turn on the waterworks. Dont hold back. It may help make you feel better and shake off the blues. Should the negative mood persist and lead you to depression, see a counselor without wasting time.

Always remember that this is but a passing phase which will vanish once you are sure of yourself and take full control of your life. The transition period is an emotional seesaw for most teens and affects the parents too.