Teenage Mental Health: How To Offer Effective Support As A Parent
Teenage Mental Health: How To Offer
Effective Support
As A Parent.
Written By: Ross Thompson
How To Help Your Teenager Navigate Mental Health Challenges
Mental health challenges among teenagers are on the rise, and as a parent, it can be overwhelming to know how to best support your teenager.
From stress and anxiety to depression and mood swings, your teenager may face a range of mental health issues that feel hard to manage.
But understanding these challenges and knowing how to respond is key to helping them through it.
Recognising The Signs Of Mental Health Struggles
The first step in helping your teenager with mental health challenges is recognising the signs.
Whilst every teenager is different, common signs of mental health struggles can include withdrawing from friends and family, changes in behaviour or mood, a decline in school performance or suddenly losing interest in activities they once enjoyed.
If your teenager is showing any of these signs, it’s important not to dismiss them. Instead, approach them with understanding and open communication, encouraging them to talk about what they’re feeling.
How To Approach Conversations About Mental Health
Talking about mental health can be difficult, especially if your teenager is reluctant to open up.
However, it’s essential to create a safe and non-judgmental space for your teenager to express their feelings. Start by letting them know you’re there to listen, without rushing to offer solutions or judgments.
Ask open-ended questions like, "How have you been feeling lately?" or "What’s been on your mind?"
It’s important to avoid pushing too hard for answers. Sometimes, simply being there, showing empathy and letting them know you care is enough to open the door to more meaningful conversations.
The Role Of Professional Support In Mental Health
While your support as a parent is vital, it’s also important to recognise when professional help may be needed. If your teenager’s mental health challenges persist or worsen, seeking support from a mental health professional can provide them with the tools and strategies they need to cope.
Professional help can also give both you and your teenager more insight into the nature of the challenges they’re facing, as well as provide effective coping mechanisms.
Encouraging Healthy Habits For Mental Well-being
Encouraging your teenager to adopt healthy habits can go a long way in supporting their mental health.
Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition and good sleep hygiene all contribute towards better mental well-being.
Make it a priority to establish a routine that supports these habits. Additionally, encourage your teenager to engage in hobbies or activities that bring them joy and help them to relax.
Mindfulness, journaling and other self-care routines can also help them develop resilience and manage stress.
Need Extra Support? Join My Responding To Mental Health In Teenagers Session
If you’re feeling unsure about how to best support your teenager through their mental health challenges, or you’re struggling to start the conversation, my Responding To Mental Health In Teenagers group coaching session is here to help.
Similarly, if you are “stuck on the waiting list”, this session is for you.
This session provides parents with expert advice and practical strategies to support their teenager’s mental well-being. Together, we’ll explore how to identify mental health struggles, foster open conversations and create a supportive environment that promotes positive mental health.
Take action today and provide your teenager with the support they need to thrive.
Join an upcoming session to build the skills you need to navigate the complex world of teenage mental health and make a positive impact on your teenager’s well-being.
Ross Thompson
Empowering and upskilling young people, adults, professionals and parents through specialist coaching and intervention.
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