How to Talk to Your Teen About Mental Health

As a parent, you want the best for your child, but discussing mental health with your teen can feel challenging. You might worry about saying the wrong thing, being met with silence, or even pushing them away. However, open conversations about mental health can help your teen feel supported, understood, and empowered to seek help if needed.

Why These Conversations Matter

Many teens experience stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, yet they may hesitate to open up due to stigma, fear, or uncertainty. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, you can help your teen navigate these challenges without feeling alone.

1. Choose the Right Time and Place

Pick a moment when both of you are calm and not distracted. A casual setting, like during a car ride or a walk, can encourage open conversation without the pressure of direct eye contact.

2. Start with Open-Ended Questions

Rather than asking, “Are you okay?” try questions that invite deeper discussion, such as:

• “How have you been feeling lately?”
• “Is there anything on your mind that’s been bothering you?”
• “How are things going with your friends and school?”

3. Listen Without Judgement

Resist the urge to immediately give advice or minimise their feelings. Instead, practice active listening:

• Maintain a calm and open demeanour.
• Reflect back what they’re saying (e.g., “It sounds like you’ve been feeling overwhelmed with school.”)
• Validate their emotions (“I understand why that would be really stressful for you.”)

4. Be Honest and Normalise Mental Health

It’s okay to acknowledge that everyone struggles sometimes. You might say:

• “It’s completely normal to feel anxious or down sometimes.”
• “I’ve had tough days too, and talking about it helps.”
• “You’re not alone, and I’m always here to support you.”

5. Offer Support, Not Solutions

If your teen shares their struggles, focus on supporting them rather than immediately solving their problems. Ask, “How can I support you?” or “Would you like to talk to someone about this?” This gives them control over their next steps.

6. Know When to Seek Professional Help

If your teen is struggling with ongoing stress, anxiety, or depression, professional support may be necessary. Encourage seeking help by saying:

• “Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful—would you like to explore that together?”
• “There are people trained to help with this, and it’s okay to reach out.”

7. Keep the Conversation Going

Mental health isn’t a one-time discussion. Regular check-ins, even in small moments, reinforce that you’re always available to listen and support them.

Final Thoughts

Talking to your teen about mental health may not always be easy, but your willingness to listen and be present makes a difference. By fostering an open, judgement-free dialogue, you empower your teen to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and support.