We all know that adolescence can be a challenging time. Between the pressures of school, social relationships, and figuring out who they are, it’s no wonder that so many teenagers struggle with their mental health. In this article, we want to share some tips and strategies for supporting teenagers with mental health.
Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a friend, or just someone who cares about teenagers, We hope you’ll find these suggestions helpful. So let’s get started!
Create an Open and Non-Judgmental Space
What does it mean to create a safe space? First and foremost, we need to be open-minded and empathetic. We need to listen to what teens are saying without judgment or criticism. Supporting teenagers wit mental health can be a daunting task but there are ways to do it.
We need to validate their feelings, even if we don’t always have the answers. And we need to let them know that we’re here for them, no matter what.
Creating a safe and supportive space also means being available and responsive. If a teenager reaches out to us, we need to make ourselves available to them.
That might mean taking a break from our own busy lives to really listen and connect with them. It might mean setting aside our own worries and concerns to focus on theirs. And it might mean being patient and persistent, even when they don’t want to talk at first.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Our physical and mental health are deeply connected, and taking care of our bodies can have a big impact on how we feel. That’s why it’s so important for us to help teenagers develop healthy habits that support their well-being.
So, what are some healthy habits we can encourage? Well, there are a lot of different things we can do, depending on our own lifestyles and interests. Here’s what you can do:
Encouraging regular exercise, whether that’s through sports, dance, yoga, or just going for a walk.
Encouraging healthy eating habits — cooking meals at home, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoiding processed foods.
Encouraging good sleep habits — sticking to a consistent bedtime, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a relaxing sleep environment.
Encouraging stress-reducing activities — meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature.
Know the Signs
As parents, educators, and caregivers, it’s our responsibility to be aware of the warning signs of mental health issues in teenagers, so we can intervene early and provide the support they need.
Some common signs to look out for:
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as becoming withdrawn, irritable, or moody.
- Changes in sleep or eating habits, such as sleeping too much or too little, or losing or gaining weight.
- Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy.
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks.
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomach aches.
- Talk of suicide or self-harm.
Of course, it’s important to remember that everyone is different, and not every teenager who is struggling with their mental health will show the same signs. But by being aware of the warning signs and taking them seriously, we can help ensure that teenagers get the help they need.
So, what should you do if you notice these signs in a teenager? First and foremost, it’s important to talk to them about what they’re going through and to let them know that you’re there for them. It’s also a good idea to connect them with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, who can provide additional support and guidance.
Seek Professional Help
While it’s great to have supportive friends and family members, sometimes teenagers need more specialized care to address their mental health issues.
So, what should you do if you think a teenager in your life could benefit from professional help? Here are a few steps to take:
- Start by having an open and honest conversation. Let them know that you’ve noticed they’ve been struggling, and that you’re there to support them. Encourage them to share their feelings and thoughts with you.
- Consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. This could include a therapist, counsellor, or psychiatrist. You can start by asking your primary care doctor for a referral, or browse our directory of professionals.
- Help them prepare for their appointment. Talk to them about what to expect during a therapy session, and encourage them to write down any questions or concerns they have beforehand.
- Follow up and offer ongoing support. Mental health treatment is often a long-term process, so it’s important to continue checking in and offering support as needed.
Foster Connection
As social creatures, we all need to feel connected to others, and this is especially true for teenagers who are navigating a complex and challenging time in their lives.
Here’s how we can foster connection:
- Encourage them to pursue their interests and hobbies. This can help them find like-minded peers and develop a sense of identity and purpose.
- Make time for family activities and traditions. Whether it’s a weekly game night or a special holiday celebration, these rituals can help teenagers feel connected and supported.
- Help them find volunteer opportunities or other ways to give back to their communities. This can help them feel a sense of purpose and belonging, and can also build their self-esteem and confidence.
- Encourage them to participate in group activities or clubs at school. Whether it’s sports, music, drama, or a social justice club, these groups can help teenagers find their tribe and build meaningful relationships.
Remember, supporting teenagers’ mental health is a team effort. It takes parents, caregivers, educators, family, and friends all working together to create a culture of understanding, compassion, and support.
So let’s do our part to break down the stigma around mental health, and encourage teenagers to prioritise their well-being and seek help when they need it.
For additional material, we can encourage them to do a 30-day Mental Health Challenge
