Teen Stories: When You've Lost Your Way

Today, Mark Gregston shares how, years into his marriage, his wife Jan revealed deep pain from childhood sexual abuse pain that eventually led them both into an 18-month counseling journey that changed their relationship. Mark realized how unresolved loss creates emotional voids that often drive behavior, both in adults and in teens. He explains that many destructive or perfection-driven choices come from attempts to fill those empty places left by trauma, rejection or unmet needs. Ultimately, he emphasizes that true healing and freedom come when God fills those voids and replaces lies with truth.

If your teen is struggling and you need help, we encourage you to attend one of our Families in Crisis Conferences. Visit familycrisisretreat.com to learn more!

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

So many of todays teens are quietly battling anxiety, depression and the pressures of fitting in a reality that often goes unseen. In this episode, Mark sits down with two more Heartlight residents who open up about their mental health journeys. For Will, depression fueled his reckless behavior and created distance at home. But when he saw how his struggles impacted his little sister, he decided things had to change. Both teens reveal how their challenges with mental health shaped their choices, but also how Heartlight is helping them heal, reconnect and find hope for the future.

Know a young adult who might be a great fit for Heartlight staff? We're hiring! Go to heartlight.jobs to learn more.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Join Mark Gregston, Wayne Shepherd and Courtney Lafleur today as they discuss the power of perspective when parenting teens, and why it matters more than simply sharing opinions. Mark explains that teens are surrounded by loud opinions everywhere, but what they truly need from parents is calm, experience-based wisdom that helps them see the bigger picture. Instead of rushing to fix their problems, parents can offer perspective, listen well and let teens think through decisions on their own. Ultimately, sharing perspective builds connection, invites ongoing conversation, and helps teens grow in maturity and confidence.

Is your teen struggling? Visit familycrisisretreat.com to see how Mark's Families in Crisis Conferences can help your family!

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

In this episode, Mark dives into some more pressing questions from parents from navigating dating relationships when faith values differ, to supporting teens through church transitions, and addressing concerns about technology and social media. Youll hear real listener questions about boundaries, discipline and guiding adolescents through complicated issues like sexuality, mental health and independence. Whether youre struggling to connect with your teen or simply searching for practical Christian parenting advice, you'll find some wisdom and actionable tips to help you build deeper relationships.

Hit some bumps along the road of your parenting journey? We want to hear your questions! Send them in to markgregston.com today.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org. 

Depression among teens is rising rapidly, with major studies showing increasing rates of persistent sadness, anxiety and even suicide. Today, Mark Gregston and Wayne Shepherd explain that depression doesnt always have obvious warning signs, which is why parents must stay closely connected and ask deeper questions beyond How are you? Mark highlights common indicators like withdrawal, changes in sleep/eating habits, loss of interest, anger, risky behavior and talk of death. Always take suicidal statements seriously especially if a teen has a plan. Parents cant fix depression alone, and seeking professional help quickly (and using resources like the 988 crisis line) can save a life.

Is your teen spiraling? Visit heartlightministries.org to learn about Mark's residential counseling program and how it may be able help your family.

Parenting Today's Teens is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit parentingtodayteens.org.