When Your Teen Can't Get Out of Bed: Understanding and Addressing School Avoidance

When Your Teen Can't Get Out of Bed: Understanding and Addressing School Avoidance

School avoidance isn't laziness, defiance, or a phase. It's a sign that something in your child's internal or external world feels too big, too painful, or too overwhelming to manage.

When your teen who once got up on time suddenly can't get out of bed, or a student who used to push through tough days now melts down at the thought of school, it's confusing and overwhelming for the whole family.

At Creative Healing, we see this struggle every day. What starts as "just today" can quickly turn into a pattern that disrupts everything. But here's the good news: with the right support, teens can get back to school, back to routine, and back to feeling like themselves.

This isn't about being tougher or trying harder. School avoidance has multiple contributing factors—from undiagnosed neurodivergence to mood disorders to family patterns that unknowingly reinforce avoidance. Understanding these layers is essential for breaking the cycle.

Surviving December: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Teen Mental Health with DBT Skills During the Holidays

Surviving December: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Teen Mental Health with DBT Skills During the Holidays

The holidays are supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year”—but for many teens (and their parents), December brings more stress than joy. Learn why this month is uniquely challenging for emotionally sensitive teens, and discover practical, DBT-informed strategies—including Accumulating Positives, Coping Ahead, and PLEASE skills—to help your family find calm, connection, and hope.

Is Therapy Enough? When to Consider DBT vs. Partial Hospitalization for Your Teen

Is Therapy Enough? When to Consider DBT vs. Partial Hospitalization for Your Teen

If your teen is struggling with self-harm, intense emotions, or sudden changes in behavior, it’s natural to wonder if weekly therapy is enough—or if they need something more intensive, like a partial hospital program (PHP). Here’s what most parents haven’t been told: a comprehensive DBT program is often the level of care you’re looking for. Learn what makes DBT different, when PHP is necessary, and how to make the best decision for your family.

How to Stop Walking on Eggshells: A Parent’s Guide to Calmer Conversations with Your Teen

Are you constantly worried about saying the “wrong thing” to your emotionally sensitive teen? You’re not alone. Learn why walking on eggshells doesn’t help, and discover practical steps to create calmer, more connected conversations at home.

The Secret Ingredient to Helping Your Teen: Taking Care of Yourself First

If you’re the parent of a teen who feels everything deeply, you already know how exhausting it can be. You want to show up with patience, wisdom, and support—but some days, you’re running on empty. Here’s the truth: the best way to help your emotionally sensitive teen is to start by taking care of yourself.