These transitions really amount to rites of passage, as they come at key moments in adolescent development. We need to see them in a new light. The transition can, at times, be overwhelming. And suicide prevention experts tell us that ninth grade is the most troubling year. So this first transition deserves our attention.
Several recommendations come to mind.
Parents need to stay very involved with their children when they enter high school. Sometimes it is hard to break through. My message to parents is to stay involved. Slow down your lives. Young people can be very tough on each other at a time when relationships are so important to them.