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Teen Mental Wellness: How Parents Can Support Their Kids’ Mental Health Journey

Erin Bratsky, MSW, LCPC
October, 2024


Raising a teenager today comes with a unique set of challenges. Adolescence is a critical period of change, exploration, and emotional development. As parents, you may find it difficult to differentiate between typical teenage behavior and signs of potential mental health concerns. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 youth live with a mental health condition, and half of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14. With these statistics in mind, it’s essential to promote a positive mental health environment at home and understand how to support your teen through life’s ups and downs.

In this blog, we’ll explore common teen mental health issues, effective ways to support your teen, and signs to watch for that may indicate your child needs additional help.

Common Teen Mental Health Challenges

While anxiety and depression are well-known mental health concerns among teens, there are several other issues parents should be aware of:

  • Suicidal Ideation: A serious concern that requires immediate professional help if suspected.
  • Disordered Eating: Such as restricting food intake, binge eating, or excessive focus on body image.
  • Behavioral Disorders: Including oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Risk-Taking Behaviors: These can manifest as substance use, unsafe driving, or reckless sexual behavior.

These issues can affect your child’s well-being, and while they may be difficult to spot, being aware of subtle changes in behavior is key to early intervention.

Warning Signs Parents Should Know

No one knows your child as well as you do, so you are in a unique position to notice when something may be off. Here are some key warning signs to look for:

  • Changes in academic performance or disinterest in school activities
  • Sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns
  • Withdrawal from social situations and isolation from friends or family
  • Physical ailments like headaches or stomachaches with no apparent cause
  • Increased irritability or unexplained mood swings
  • Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

How Parents Can Support Their Teen’s Mental Health

There are many proactive ways parents can support their teens, foster resilience, and encourage healthy emotional habits:

  1. Create an Open and Non-Judgmental Space

Make talking about feelings a regular part of your family’s routine. This means being open to discussions about both positive and negative emotions. Reassure your child that it’s okay to feel however they feel and let them know they can come to you for support at any time.

  1. Model Healthy Coping Skills

As parents, one of the most impactful things you can do is model positive coping skills. When you face a stressful day, demonstrate how you relax and de-stress, whether it’s through exercise, a calming activity like yoga, or even a fun family movie night. By seeing you practice self-care, your teen learns that it’s okay to prioritize their mental health too.

  1. Encourage Healthy Physical Habits

Physical health and mental health are closely connected. Make sure your teen has nutritious meals, gets regular exercise, and has good sleep hygiene. These activities not only keep their bodies healthy but also contribute to a stable mood and emotional well-being.

  1. Be Present and Actively Listen

When your child comes to you with a concern, give them your full attention. Put away distractions, make eye contact, and actively listen. This can make a huge difference in whether they feel heard and valued. Use reflective listening by repeating back what they’ve said in your own words, which shows you understand and validates their experience.

  1. Show Empathy

It’s okay if you don’t fully understand everything your teen is going through. Show empathy by letting them know you hear them and appreciate their willingness to share. Statements like “I can see how much this is hurting you” or “That sounds really tough” can help your child feel supported and not judged.

  1. Promote Balance and Down Time

Teens today often face intense pressure from academics, extracurricular activities, and social media. Help them find a healthy balance by encouraging downtime and activities that they enjoy for no other reason than to relax and have fun. This balance can reduce stress and provide a much-needed mental health break.

  1. Know When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice that your child’s mental health symptoms persist beyond a few weeks or interfere with their daily life, it may be time to reach out to a professional. A pediatrician, school counselor, or licensed therapist can provide support and resources tailored to your child’s needs.

How Teens Can Advocate for Their Own Mental Health

Empowering your teen to take an active role in their own mental wellness can make a big difference. Encourage them to:

  • Talk to a Trusted Adult: Whether it’s you, another family member, a teacher, or a coach, let them know that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  • Practice Self-Care: Help them find activities that recharge their batteries and bring joy, like art, yoga or journaling.
  • Stay Connected: Engage in kids in social outlets with other teens in supportive groups such as sports, special interests, school clubs, or youth groups. 

Final Thoughts

Teen mental health is a complex topic, but parents play an essential role in nurturing it. By maintaining open communication, modeling healthy behaviors, and knowing the signs to look out for, you can create a supportive environment that promotes mental wellness. Remember, seeking help is never a sign of failure. Sometimes the best way to support your child is by connecting them with professionals who can provide the care and guidance they need to thrive.

At Brighter Sky Counseling, we specialize in supporting teens and families through life’s challenges. If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health or want to learn more about our teen wellness programs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your family’s mental health journey is important to us, and we’re here to help you navigate it together.