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  • Writer's pictureAmy Galpin, LPC-S

Understanding Teen Emotions: Insights from Lisa Damour

Updated: Mar 31


A white woman with a blue blouse smiles.

Hello everyone! Today, we're diving into a super interesting topic: teenagers and all those feelings they experience. If you've ever felt like a rollercoaster of emotions, or if you know someone who has, then you're in the right place. We're exploring the ideas of Lisa Damour, an expert who knows a lot about teenagers and how they feel. Be sure to check out Lisa's latest book, The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents.


The Rollercoaster of Teen Emotions


First off, Lisa Damour tells us that being a teenager is like being on a rollercoaster. One minute, you're at the top of the world, feeling great, and the next minute, you might feel like you're at the very bottom. And guess what? That's totally normal! Teenage years are full of changes — not just with your body, but in your brain too. That's why emotions can feel so strong and unpredictable.



People riding a rollercoaster.

Why Are Teens So Emotional?


You might wonder, "Why am I feeling all these emotions?" Lisa has some cool answers for us. As teenagers grow, their brains are developing in ways that make them super sensitive to what's happening around them. It's like their emotions are turned up to max volume. This helps them learn about the world, but it can also make things feel a bit overwhelming.


Talking Helps... A Lot!


One of Lisa Damour's biggest tips is to talk about what you're feeling. It might seem a bit scary at first, but sharing your thoughts and emotions can make a big difference. When you talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or teacher, it's like letting some of the air out of a too-full balloon. You'll feel lighter and less stressed.


It's OK Not to Be OK


Sometimes, you might feel like you're supposed to be happy or calm all the time. But Lisa reminds us that it's totally okay to feel upset, angry, or sad sometimes. The important thing is to recognize these feelings and know that they won't last forever. Feeling a wide range of emotions is part of being human, and it's definitely part of being a teenager.



Two teenager girls laugh.

Learning from Emotions


Believe it or not, all these wild emotions aren't just there to make life complicated. They can actually teach us a lot! Feeling nervous can push us to prepare better for a test. Feeling excited can inspire us to chase our dreams. By paying attention to our emotions, we can learn more about ourselves and what matters to us.


Wrap-Up


So, there you have it — a quick tour of what Lisa Damour teaches us about teenagers and their emotions. Remember, being a teenager is an adventure full of ups and downs. And it's perfectly normal to feel all the feelings on this journey. Talking about emotions and understanding them can make the ride a lot smoother.


Thanks for reading, and here's to navigating the teenage years with a bit more understanding and a lot more kindness!


Teen Therapy Can Help


Here at the Neurodiversity Center of Katy, we help teenage boys and teenage girls better understand their emotions. Our team of therapists has a proven track record of being effective with teens. They specialize in helping teens navigate their various emotions. Teen therapy can also help teens better cope with what they are going through.


To begin therapy at the Neurodiversity Center of Katy, follow these three simple steps:


  1. Contact our office and schedule a free consultation or therapy appointment.

  2. Meet with one of our skilled therapists with experience working with teens and their emotions.

  3. Discover ways to understand and cope with your emotions.



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Therapy Services We Offer at The Neurodiversity Center of Katy.


Here at the Neurodiversity Center of Katy, we provide different services for individuals, couples and families. These services include:


Our therapists are excited about sharing their knowledge and experience about neurodiversity. Please follow the blog or contact our office to learn more.


About The Author



A white woman sits on a stool.

I'm Amy, the founder and lead therapist at the Neurodiversity Center of Katy. With more than two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting teens and their families. My expertise includes assisting teenagers facing challenges with behavior or mood regulation, Autism, depression, low self-esteem, social or relationship problems, anxiety, ADHD, experiences of sexual or physical abuse, and adapting to life changes.


My clients say that I am positive, easy to work with and very knowledgeable. I have a unique gift connecting with teenagers. I go above and beyond making sure they feel comfortable just being themselves.


Feel free to contact me and let me know how I can help you on your journey.


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