83. Productive Struggle Over Fragility: How to Raise Braver Teens with Lynn Lyons
Description
Parents today are swimming in mental-health advice—some helpful, a lot confusing. In this episode Zack sits down with psychotherapist Lynn Lyons (author of Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents and host of the “Flusterclux” podcast) to cut through the noise. Lynn explains why anxiety thrives on over-talking, endless reassurance, and “safety chatter,” and how well-meaning accommodations at home and school can accidentally make avoidance worse. She offers concrete, doable shifts for parents: talk 85% less, model approach instead of avoidance, build autonomy, and invite “productive struggle” so teens learn they can handle discomfort.
You’ll also hear practical guidance for school refusal (what to change tonight and how to partner with the school), why stress ≠ trauma, and how to replace fragility language with skills and confidence. If your teen is anxious—and you’re anxious about what to do—this conversation gives you a clear playbook and renewed hope.
Zack Hack- In this week’s anxiety hack Zack shares a quote from LR Nost to help you Fear Less!
To find out more about Lynn Lyonns and the resources she talks about check out her website: https://www.lynnlyons.com/
Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.
United States
