Helping Your Struggling Child Find Their Way Back!
By Joe White
The past few years have been tough on our kids. The pandemic and its lingering uncertainty—school closures, social isolation, and constant change—have left many young people grappling with anxiety and a sense of being adrift. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 25% of youth reported worsened mental health due to the pandemic, with anxiety and depression rates spiking. A 2024 CDC survey found that 42% of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless, often linked to disrupted routines and social pressures that have been amplified since 2020. These aren’t just numbers; they’re signs our kids need help and tools to navigate this new world.
PrimeYouth Coaching exists to help your child get back on track. For over 30 years, Joe and Get Life Coaching have been the place people turn to when change is an absolute must. Our bespoke coaching equips young people with real-world strategies for managing their mindset and emotions, preparing them for a self-sustaining life. But you don’t need to wait for a session to start helping. Here are three practical tools parents can use today to support their child’s emotional well-being, rooted in the challenges sparked by recent years:
Create a safe space for feelings
Post-pandemic, kids often bottle up emotions, fearing judgment in an uncertain world. Encourage open talks by asking, “What’s been the toughest part of your day?” instead of “How was school?” This invites honesty without pressure. Listen without fixing—sometimes, being heard is enough.
Teach the pause
Anxiety, heightened by constant disruptions, can make kids react impulsively. Introduce a simple mindfulness trick: the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. Name five things they see, four they can touch, three they hear, two they smell, and one they taste. This grounds them in the moment, easing overwhelm.
Set small, achievable goals
The uncertainty since 2020 has made long-term planning feel daunting for kids. Help them focus on one small win daily—finishing homework, calling a friend, or tidying their space. Celebrate these steps to rebuild confidence and momentum.
Melody Kirby, a parent whose son we worked with, saw this firsthand: “I met Joe four years ago, and he is an inspiration to me and a testament to what he can do even in the most hopeless of situations. Having my son work with Joe is the absolute best investment I have ever made.” Her son, Aaron, once overwhelmed by school anxiety and a tough home life, found hope and success through coaching and learning tools like these, tailored to his needs.
We build on these strategies, helping kids turn challenges into strengths. Curious about how we can support your child? We invite you to book a complimentary LaunchPoint Session, a conversation to explore your child’s needs and share personalized insights. As Melody said, “It is your duty and responsibility to yourself and your family to make a comeback.” Visit our website to schedule your LaunchPoint Session and start your child’s journey toward resilience today. To find out more call me at 302-832-3424 or visit www.GetLifeCoaching.com.
Until next time, Rattle The Cage, Joe
Bio
For over 25 years, Joe White has been a leading force in personal and professional transformation, pioneering Delaware’s first life coaching practice, Get Life Coaching. His journey began with overcoming a near-fatal drug and alcohol addiction 30 years ago, a turning point that ignited his passion for helping others.
Joe possesses a unique combination of passion, genuine empathy, unfiltered honesty, and practical expertise. This extraordinary blend attracts clients from all walks of life and enables Joe to create massive and lasting change for his clients. His impact extends well beyond Delaware; Joe has coached over one million individuals and businesses worldwide.
Testimonial
“Joe is the best thing to have ever happened in my life!!” ~ A. Glasso, PrimeYouth Coaching Client
Joe White Get Life Coaching
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