The teen years bring big changes. For girls, those changes often include hormones, periods and powerful emotions.

Read more: Tackling the Tough Teen Girl Hormone Years

While this season can feel overwhelming for teens and parents alike, experts say knowledge, reassurance and gentle support make all the difference. Naturopath Mel, from Natmed talks about teenage hormones, period pain and how families can better support young women through this important stage of life.

Talking About Periods Without Shame

First and foremost, Mel says it’s time to normalise the conversation. “Periods are a normal biological function that happens to around half the population,” she explains. “There’s no shame in talking about them, and knowledge is power.”

Today, girls are starting their periods earlier than previous generations. In some cases, periods can begin as young as nine. However, irregular cycles in the early years are usually normal.

“For example, a girl might have one period and then not have another for many months,” Mel says. “That doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.”

Hormones fluctuate significantly during puberty. Emotional changes, mild PMS, and occasional skin breakouts are all common. What matters most is perspective.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While many symptoms are normal, there are times when parents should seek professional help. Mel encourages families to look out for red flags, including:

• Period pain that stops normal activities or requires time off school
• Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with pain relief
• No period by age 15 or 16
• A strong family history of hormonal or reproductive issues

“If period pain is relentless or debilitating every month, that’s when it’s time to speak to a healthcare professional,” Mel says.

How to Start Healthy Conversations With Teen Girls

For many parents – especially dads – talking about periods can feel awkward. However, Mel says open, gentle conversations are essential. “Choose the right time,” she advises. “If your teen is tired, stressed or in public, it’s probably not the moment.”

Instead, start with simple check-ins like “Are you okay?” or “You seem uncomfortable – can I help?” These small steps help teens feel supported and safe to speak up. Importantly, conversations don’t need to happen all at once. Sometimes it takes several gentle attempts before a teenager opens up.

Natural Ways to Ease Period Pain

Mild cramps, bloating and discomfort are common during periods. Thankfully, there are many natural ways to help reduce period pain and support hormone balance.

Magnesium
Magnesium helps relax muscles, including the uterus. Mel recommends magnesium glycinate, around 300mg per day, to ease cramping.

Omega-3 fatty acids
Found in fish oil, omega-3s reduce inflammation and can help with PMS and menstrual pain.

Calcium
Calcium supports muscle function and may reduce bloating and cramping. It’s best taken separately from magnesium for better absorption.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a role in hormone regulation, mood and muscle health, making it especially helpful during puberty.

Iron
Because periods involve blood loss, many teenage girls need extra iron – particularly those who are vegetarian or vegan. Iron glycinate is a well-tolerated option.

B-group vitamins
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has been shown in studies to reduce period pain. Mel recommends a B-complex supplement rather than a single B vitamin.

Food Choices Matter Too

Diet plays a significant role in inflammation and hormone health. Highly processed foods and fast food can increase inflammation, which may worsen cramps and skin issues. “Do the best you can,” Mel says. “Even simple swaps help.”

For example, choosing a roast chicken and salad over deep-fried options provides protein and nutrients while still being convenient. Hydration is also important, even though getting teenagers to drink enough water can be a challenge.

Drug-Free Pain Relief Options

In addition to supplements and diet, several physical therapies can help relieve menstrual pain:

• Heat packs or hot water bottles relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping
• TENS machines use gentle electrical pulses to block pain signals
• Castor oil packs may improve circulation and reduce muscular tension
• Ginger supplements (1,000–2,000mg daily) can reduce pain, nausea and inflammation

“Ginger helps reduce prostaglandins, which are responsible for uterine spasms,” Mel explains. Often, a combination of rest, heat, magnesium and ginger can make a noticeable difference.

Supporting Teen Mental Health

Normalising period conversations also supports mental health. When girls feel comfortable talking about their bodies, they’re less likely to suffer in silence. “Be emotionally intelligent,” Mel says. “Read the room. Keep things private and supportive.”

She also encourages parents to explore modern options like period underwear or menstrual cups, which can make periods feel more manageable for teens.

You’re Not Alone

Puberty and periods are a normal part of growing up, but no family has to navigate them alone. With the right information, gentle conversations and practical support, parents can help their daughters move through the teen season with confidence.

And if symptoms are severe or impacting daily life, seeking professional advice is always the right next step.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

At just 16 years old, Ryan Oosthuizen is doing something remarkable. He’s not just starting a business, he’s starting a ministry.

Ryan is the founder of BoTL – Blessings of the Lord, a Christian fragrance brand based in Perth. What began as a prayer, when he was just 15, has become a purpose-driven business designed to spread faith in a subtle but powerful way.

From Prayer to Purpose

Ryan didn’t wake up one day with a business plan. Instead, he started with a question.

“What am I meant to do with my life?”

Like many young people, he felt uncertain about the future. So he did something simple but bold. He prayed. He asked God for direction. According to Ryan, the answer was clear.

God gave him a vision. That vision became BoTL.

With support from his parents and a strong Christian upbringing, Ryan stepped out in faith. His goal was not profit alone, it was impact.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Ryan Oosthuizen’s journey has not been easy. He lost his brother, and the grief was deep. The questions were heavy. Yet, instead of stopping, Ryan chose to move forward.

He decided to honour his brother by living with purpose. He committed to showing others that no matter what happens, faith can carry you through. With God at the centre, Ryan believes nothing is impossible.

That belief now fuels everything BoTL stands for.

What Does BoTL Mean?

BoTL stands for Blessings of the Lord. But it is more than a name.

Ryan describes BoTL as a message in a bottle. Each fragrance is designed to spark curiosity, start conversations, and gently introduce people to faith.

It is not about preaching, it’s about presence. “It’s a subtle way to help people encounter God,” Ryan says. “Even through something as simple as smelling good.”

Why Fragrance?

The answer is practical and personal. Ryan loves fragrance – he always has. He also knows that first impressions matter. People respond to scent – it opens doors. More importantly, Ryan believes God can use anything, even perfume.

By combining passion with purpose, Ryan found a way to grow God’s Kingdom through something he genuinely loves.

Building a Fragrance Brand at 15

Starting a fragrance business is no small task. Especially at 15. Ryan learned quickly. He researched online, watched videos, studied scent profiles and fragrance notes. Eventually, he partnered with a fragrance manufacturer in Dubai.

Ryan selected specific accords and notes. From 14 fragrance samples, he narrowed the range down to four signature scents. Those four are now in production, with 1,000 bottles arriving in Perth.

The BoTL Fragrance Range

Each BoTL fragrance carries its own identity:

• Aroma Day – A fresh, uplifting men’s scent with citrus notes
• The Chosen – A deeper men’s fragrance with sandalwood and vanilla
• Jubilation – A sweet women’s scent featuring rum and caramel
• Perfection – A youthful floral blend with grapefruit and spice

The fragrances were tested by more than 50 people. The favourites rose quickly and the choice was clear.

Marketing With Meaning

BoTL’s marketing strategy focuses on social media. Ryan uses TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to share his story, his faith, and his fragrances. He shares short videos, honest conversations and has a clear purpose.

Some Christian influencers have already partnered with him. The goal is simple. Reach people where they are and let the story speak for itself.

Distribution From a Garage

Ryan Oosthuizen’s operation is hands-on – very hands-on. The stock is being stored in his family garage. Ryan packs every order himself. He labels the boxes. He even sprays fragrance inside so the package smells great on arrival.

Customers can choose local pickup in Mandurah or Australia Post shipping across Australia and New Zealand. International shipping is planned for the future.

A Business With an Eternal Vision

Ryan doesn’t see BoTL as just a brand – he sees it as a ministry.

His long-term vision is global. He hopes the business will fund mission work around the world, from the poorest communities to the wealthiest cities, Ryan wants to share the love of Jesus with anyone willing to listen.

A Message to Young Dreamers

Ryan Oosthuizen’s advice is simple. If God puts something on your heart, do it.

Don’t wait, don’t overthink it. Pray, talk to people, take the step. Ryan believes that if God is behind it, nothing can stop it.

Age doesn’t matter. Background doesn’t matter. Faith does.

Supporting Young Faith-Filled Entrepreneurs

Ryan’s story is a reminder that God can work through anyone, at any age, in any industry.

From loss came purpose. From prayer came vision. BoTL is more than perfume, it is proof that when faith leads, impact follows. Check out the BoTL range here.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Supplied

They’re scrolling before school, snapping photos between classes, checking likes after dinner. For today’s teens, screens aren’t just part of life, they are life.

But as a generation grows up bathed in filters, algorithms, and highlight reels, there’s an urgent question parents are beginning to ask:

What is all this doing to their self-esteem?

The Digital Mirror: More Than Just a Reflection

Self-esteem, our sense of worth, confidence, and value, is formed through experiences, relationships, and identity development. But when screens become the main “mirror,” teens are no longer just learning who they are—they’re constantly comparing it to who they’re not.

Psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge, who has studied generational trends for decades, says:

“There’s a clear association between heavy screen use and lower self-esteem, especially among teen girls.”

In her research, teens who spent more time on screens, especially on visual platforms like Instagram and TikTok, reported significantly higher levels of unhappiness and body dissatisfaction.

A landmark study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health (2019) found that more than three hours of social media use per day was linked to:

• Lower self-esteem
• Increased anxiety and depression
• Greater body image issues

Another review in the Journal of Adolescence found that teens who received more feedback (likes, comments, follows) tied their self-worth more closely to external validation—and felt worse when that validation didn’t come.

In other words, screens aren’t inherently bad. But the kind of content teens consume, and the feedback loops it creates, are profoundly shaping how they see themselves.

3 Ways Screens Undermine Teen Self-Esteem

1. The Comparison Trap

Scrolling through perfectly curated posts can make a teen feel like everyone else is doing better, looking better, and living more exciting lives. Even though they know it’s a highlight reel, it still affects how they see themselves.

“I don’t post photos unless I’ve edited them,” one 15-year-old girl shared. “Because I don’t feel good enough without it.”

2. The Pressure to Perform

Likes, follows, streaks, these metrics become a digital scoreboard of popularity. Teens can begin to equate their worth with how others respond online, which fuels anxiety, self-doubt, and obsessive checking.

3. Reduced Real-World Social Practice

Over-reliance on screens can reduce face-to-face interactions, key moments where teens build social skills, resilience, and authentic self-confidence. Without those, confidence remains shallow and performance-based.

What Parents Can Do

You don’t need to throw the phone out the window. But you can help your teen develop a healthier digital relationship. 

Here’s How:

1. Talk About What They See

Create space for open, non-judgmental conversations. Ask:

• “How do you feel after spending time online?”
• “Do you ever compare yourself to others you see on social media?”

Help them name what they’re feeling, because awareness is the first step to change.

2. Model Healthy Media Habits

Teens are watching more than you realise. If you’re constantly checking your phone, commenting on your body, or fixated on online feedback, they notice. Show them what balance and digital boundaries look like.

3. Teach Them to Curate Their Feed

Encourage your teen to follow creators who inspire confidence, diversity, and honesty. Help them unfollow accounts that leave them feeling “less than.” They can’t always control the algorithm, but they can control who they engage with.

4. Prioritise Offline Confidence Builders

Support real-life experiences that build authentic self-esteem, sports, art, volunteering, part-time jobs. When teens experience success, failure, friendship, and resilience in the real world, they grow a stronger sense of self.

Screens are shaping the self-image of an entire generation. But with your guidance, your teen doesn’t have to be defined by their likes, filters, or follower count. Their worth isn’t found in a selfie, it’s in their story.

And the more we help them live it offline, the stronger they’ll become.

Article supplied with thanks to Sabrina Peters.

About the Author: Sabrina is a pastor and a psychologist who is dedicated to helping people experience wholeness and growth. Passionate about building healthy families, she spends her days raising kids, supporting clients, and creating resources that inspire freedom and hope.

Feature image: Canva

As thousands of excited school leavers prepare for Schoolies Week, Red Frogs is reminding parents that a little preparation and conversation can go a long way.

Red Frogs Australia is a volunteer network known for its pancakes, late-night chats, and unwavering support for young people (and their parents).

For many families, Schoolies marks a first: the first trip without parents, the first taste of independence, and for parents, the first real experience of letting go.

“It’s easier said than done,” says the Red Frogs team, “but take the time to talk to your teen about Schoolies or Leavers Week and how they plan to celebrate. 

“Be a listening ear and share in their excitement for this next chapter of life.”

Parents can rest assured, Red Frogs crews will be on the ground again this year across 15 Schoolies locations, including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay, Airlie Beach, and as far as Bali, Fiji and Vanuatu, providing a positive peer presence and support system.

And while you may not be able to be there, the message to parents is simple: you can set your teen up for success by preparing together before they go.

Food, Hydration and a Few Practical Tips

Amid all the excitement, some of Red Frogs’ most practical advice revolves around simple things that make a big difference, like food and hydration. 

“Stock your teen with a heap of pre-made meals for the week,” they suggest. 

“This will make sure they’re having something nutritious that supports their overall wellbeing throughout the week.”

Equally important is staying hydrated. 

“Slabs of water, watermelon and electrolyte drinks” are key, especially in the summer heat.

Parents are also encouraged to agree on check-in times, remind teens to stick with their friends, and ensure they’ve saved the Red Frogs hotline (1300 557 123) in their phone or downloaded the free Red Frogs app.

Talking About Alcohol and Boundaries

One of the trickiest conversations can be around alcohol. The Red Frogs team urges parents to be upfront, and evidence based.

“Do not provide your teen with any alcohol,” they caution. “Although this might feel like you’re protecting them, research shows that providing alcohol actually leads to more risky behaviour.”

For those 18 and over, moderation is key. “Encourage them to buy light beer, not full strength. It’s important to communicate the effects so they can make responsible decisions their future self will be grateful for.”

Keeping Connection Strong

Even from a distance, parents can play an important role in helping their teens stay grounded and safe.

“Agree on check-in times and stay in touch during the week,” Red Frogs suggests. “Remind your teen that it’s okay to not be okay, but it’s important to tell someone about it. 

“Keep those communication channels open so your teen knows you are there for them.”

And in emergencies, parents can reinforce one critical message: “Call 000. First responders have their best interests at heart.”

A Safety Net of Care and Hope

Beyond the fun, Schoolies can bring moments of vulnerability, which is why Red Frogs’ volunteer network exists. They’ll be flipping pancakes, handing out water, and providing emotional and practical support to thousands of young people across the country.

Their approach is one of quiet care and prevention, offering not just safety, but genuine connection.

Parents who want to stay informed can join the ‘Red Frogs Schoolies Advice for Parents’ Facebook group, or visit redfrogs.com.au for resources, updates, and volunteer stories.

Article supplied with thanks to Christian Media & Arts Australia.

This article was prepared with AI assistance and carefully reviewed by the 96five Digital team.

Feature image: Supplied