Echo Malibu
Malibu, CA

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Echo Malibu Adds Seasonal Counselors

Both anecdotal evidence and numerous studies support the idea that the holidays represent a time in which American's experience a rise in depression, anxiety and substance abuse. The data that supports such a belief is almost exclusively aimed at adults, without consideration to adolescents. According to Cole Rucker, co-founder of ECHO MALIBU, such an oversight can be dangerous. "We see the holidays as potentially a very difficult time for adolescents. Many are on winter break with little supervision. They may be alone with difficult thoughts or feelings that they were to busy to experience during their last semester of school."

Dr. Jeffrey Nalin, Executive Director of ECHO MALIBU adds, "As with adults, adolescents may experience great disappointment during the holidays if they're expecting a holiday that is a direct reflection of what the media has told them is ideal. Most families fall short." He goes on to state, "Teens may also pick up on the anxiety of adults, experience direct or indirect tensions around dealing with difficult visiting relatives, or simply be impacted by the collective stress the holidays can bring."

Rucker adds, "The bottom line is that if you are talking about at-risk youth, any added stressor can serve as a trigger for substance abuse or other problem behaviors. Parents should watch for signs that indicate that their child might be in trouble." According to Dr. Nalin, "Some of the signs parents should look for include: changes in sleeping habits or appetite, social isolation or retreat, changes in dress or appearance, a change in friends, or loss of interest in pursuits that have been of importance. It isn't always easy for parents to determine the nature or severity of an emerging problem."

In an effort to assist parents, ECHO MALIBU will have extra counselors on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance to families who may be in crisis. Parents or youth may call 800 780 ECHO to speak with a counselor free of charge.