You are doing a great job. It can be hard to not take things personally but we have to. Parenting troublesome teens requires very thick skin! I totally relate as am in the same situation. 13 yo daughter who is constantly pushing boundaries, is disrespectful and engaged in risk taking behaviours. I shut down data and she keeps phone. It's the only way I can keep in contact if she's not home. Snapchat streaks do my head in. What an evil, insidious lure to keep our kids addicted to their phones. I turn WiFi off sometimes hiding modem. It's the only currency I have left. ... View more

Hello 1. My only child/daughter is 13 turning 14 in June. She went to the school strike climate change rally yesterday. When I asked her to send me a photo, while i was at work, of her placard, she sent me as photo of her new best friend holding cardboard with "eat 😺 save animals". I was horrified. Later when I shared the story with a parentline counsellor, I could see the funny side. 2. Try and see the funny side to the situation which is very hard at times. I finally used my Active April registration (after4 yeats) smd signed up to the local gym. I've been doing cycle classes, good to reveal how unfit I am, otherwise I practice yoga and meditation, try and eat well, use parentline, have a MHCP to see a psychologist and I have a few friends wh o I can call on for support. I also journal and garden when i have time. 3. Seeking support online with my daughter's behaviour. 4. Strong boundaries, reduced/limited internet and social media and heaps of love and encouragement. 5. Time free to be me, catching up with friends, going out to see art or music or staying home to relax and gardening time. ... View more