Young people have less to unlearn. Teaching them to accept their feelings as natural and respond constructively to their life situation gives them a crucial choice as they inevitably face moments of emotional pain and mental discomfort. Consider their other choices. They can act on whatever feelings they have which will, at times, produce violent, selfish, unhealthy or irresponsible behavior. Anyone who has bounced between these two strategies has probably discovered that pleasant feelings dissipate rather quickly against a background of a messed-up life.
Suicide is, perhaps, the ultimate escape from unpleasant feelings and an untended life.
Taking care of our life, while accepting our unpleasant feelings, may render such tragic choices unnecessary. The shift away from a feeling-driven lifestyle can be replaced by one that is purposeful and realistic. Youth have dreams and goals, though not ones which always meet with adult approval. By focusing on their behavior, their actions, they move in a purposeful direction. Scott may be bored with his algebra class and not feel like doing his homework.