Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health: Tips for Parents
SUPPORTING TEENS MENTAL HEALTH
Teens between 13 and 15 years old undergo significant emotional, psychological, and physical changes. While it is normal for them to experience mood swings and stress, it is crucial to recognise the signs of deeper mental health issues.
As a parent, ensuring your teen's mental well-being can be both incredibly important and challenging. Teens between 13 and 15 years old undergo significant emotional, psychological, and physical changes. While it is normal for them to experience mood swings and stress, it is crucial to recognise the signs of deeper mental health issues and provide support and guidance. My experience as a psychotherapist working in the education system supporting students with emotional, behavioural and psychological issues allowed me to understand teens and their parent’s needs as they navigate the teen phase.
Here are seven tips you might find helpful:
Communication
Encourage your teen to share their thoughts and feelings with you. Create a safe and non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. Listen actively and validate their experiences, showing empathy and understanding.
Example Conversation Starter: "I have noticed you seem a bit down lately. Do you want to talk about what's been going on?"
Educate Yourself and Your Teen About Mental Health
Understanding common mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, can help you recognise symptoms early. Share age-appropriate information with your teen to reduce stigma and increase their awareness.
Resource Tip: Look for credible websites, books, or mental health professionals that provide reliable information on teen mental health.
Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Physical health greatly impacts mental well-being. Encourage your teen to maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. These habits can improve their mood and energy levels.
Practical Tip: Suggest activities like a family walk after dinner or a weekend hike to combine physical exercise with family bonding time.
Support Their Social Connections
Strong peer relationships are essential for a teen's emotional development. Encourage your teen to build and maintain healthy friendships and participate in social activities they enjoy.
Social Tip: If your teen is introverted, help them discover clubs or groups that align with their interests, such as art, music, or sports.
Be a Positive Role Model
Your behaviour can significantly influence your teen's mental health. Demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms, such as problem-solving, stress management, and seeking help when needed.
Role Model Tip: Share your own experiences with managing stress or seeking support, showing that it is okay to ask for help.
Monitor and Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time can negatively affect mental health. Set reasonable limits on the time your teen spends on screens and encourage offline activities that nurture their creativity and social skills.
Screen Time Tip: Create a family agreement on screen time limits and involve your teen in setting these boundaries to ensure they feel respected and involved.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
If you notice persistent signs of mental health issues, such as drastic changes in mood, behaviour, or academic performance, consider seeking professional help. A mental health professional can provide therapy, counselling, or other interventions.
Action Tip: Talk to your teen's school counsellor or family doctor for recommendations on mental health services or therapists.
Supporting your teen's mental health is an ongoing process that requires patience, understanding, and proactive involvement. By fostering open communication, promoting healthy habits, and seeking professional help, when necessary, you can help your teen navigate these formative years with resilience and confidence. Remember, you are not alone in this journey—don't hesitate to reach out to Blooming Families for a free 15-minute consultation, if you need support.
