Self-harming is often associated with depression, poor self-esteem, weakness and the feeling of being overwhelmed. Take note that when the cause of such condition is emotional, it should be dealt as soon as possible. Generally, counseling as well as therapy enables the person to process their behavior, and work for a successful modification approach.

Although there are the medical teams that are making sure that kids are well, parents should know the common metabolic imbalances in wilderness camps, which somehow affect the normal functioning and other injuries. Here are some of them:

- Dehydration, which can slow down the individuals, particularly on warm weather.
- Sodium deficiency
- Malnutrition happens if campers are deprive of food for many days.
- Hypothermia, in case of deadly drop in core body temperature.
- Heat exhaustion that may lead to heatstroke. A very common thing on hot days.

Having an identity or to be recognized and accepted by their other peers is a major issue for most teenagers. But what is the real meaning of identity? Personal identities represent who we are and how we conceive ourselves. An identity consists of personal, family and cultural history. It also refers common experiences shared with other people. Identities give kids a certain confidence about themselves.

Who are the middle adolescents or teenagers? They are kids ages 15-18 and they undergo physical growth and personality changes. With their obvious biological transformation comes the self-concept. So how do these teenagers perceive themselves?

- Identity formation is really intense. Kids usually experiment with various roles, such as looks, friendship, etc.
- Girls may resort to dieting, or worst yet, eating disorder because they want to have a certain type of body.

Parents always see to it that homework is done before anything else. Although teenagers already acquired a pattern in doing them, there are some instances that may disrupt the cycle. For example, they are interested into cheerleading. How will they make compromises between homework and practice. One way to settle this issue is to discuss your teenagers’ schedule.

As much as possible parents should remind their kids not to smoke. Also, parents should not smoke, set an example and avoid the 35% risk factor for non-smokers. Take note that most smokers’ children are prone to bronchitis, pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. Maybe teenagers would be convinced on the effects of smoking to their health. Perhaps cancer would scare them or so. They should also avoid places and people who are into smoking. Tell them that chronic tobacco exposure reduces airway function. It somehow equals to one to ten cigarettes a day.

More and more teenagers are now smoking. So why do they smoke in the first place? Actually, there are four common reasons if you ask the kids, although they won’t really tell you:

1. Image projection – Most of the boys think that smoking means a projection of fun, coolness and individualism. For girls, it would mean desirability and sexiness.

2. Peer pressure – When their friends smoke, they also smoke for the mere reason that they want to stay in the group, and maintain that certain acceptance.

3. Rebellion – Some teenagers smoke because they want to annoy parents and other adults. Perhaps they want to be noticed. Some want independence for that matter.

4. Adult aspiration – There are teenagers who believe that smoking gives them a sense of being an adult. Also, when

You might wonder if wilderness camp would be effective for your kid. There is only one way to find out – make him or her take an evaluation exam at the camp. Or, you can consult a therapist before checking the camp. There are several assessment programs that will define the behavioral, emotional and learning condition of your teenager. For instance, there are specific tests that would measure IQ, behavior and emotion. Such methods also determine what kind of treatment they need, and then how long should they stay in the camp.

However, you have to know if such evaluation method have exclusionary criteria like medications and suicidal behavior.

Wilderness therapy programs come with a certain price. Of course, you do want your kid to overcome his or her ill behavior. The best quality treatment programs cost around $4000 and $9000 a month. Hence, your teenager is required to stay for at least a month. Depending on the case, your child might stay longer than you think.

However, you don’t have to worry because wilderness therapy is one of the most effective treatments in a short period of time. This is actually a good news especially if you cannot afford to spend for a longer therapy, such as sending your kid to a specialty boarding school.

Sending your kid to a wilderness camp is one thing, having them back is another. However, it is advisable that the family will also get a counseling program while their troubled teenager is away. This will definitely help in dealing with him or her on coming home. Don’t think that maybe there is something wrong with you as parents. It is just that sometimes you have coping techniques, which could be negative to your newly-reformed child.

The therapy will provide a clear understanding of your teenager’s condition. In turn, you could work and communicate with your kid effectively. You have to consider that bad behavior may return, if you do anything that could trigger the situation.