How to talk to your teen about mental health support

Finding quality mental health support is hard enough, but getting teens to accept help can often be just as much of a challenge. 

Teens might say there’s nothing wrong with them, or that they don’t want help. They may feel overwhelmed, embarrassed or hopeless. So how can you get your teen to accept help with an open mind? 

Set the scene by listening to your teen 

If you start off the conversation by gently asking questions without offering criticism or advice, you will probably be surprised at how much your teen opens up to you. Make it clear to them that you want to try to understand what they’re feeling and what may be troubling them.

Try to avoid language that is judgmental and authoritative. Let them know that you care for them and want to support them. 

Reassure your teen that mental health support is completely confidential

Let them know that one reason you are suggesting outside support is that you want them to feel independent. You want them to be able to talk to someone who's not a parent. 

Some teens are concerned that therapists, counselors, or mentors will share information with their parents. Reassure your teen that whatever they discuss will be completely confidential. 

Make a promise to your teen that you will not press them for details or information.

Let your teen own the process

Teens do better when given choices and control over situations. Many therapists and mental health services offer free consultation calls.

You can schedule a call for your teen and let the teen have a say in what they liked or didn’t like. 

Try convincing them to do a trial run

Your teen may be persuaded to get mental health support if they feel like it is a trial rather than a big commitment. Set a timeframe for a trial period or specific number of sessions.

After your teen tries it out and builds a relationship with their mental healthcare provider, they may feel motivated to continue. 

It all comes down to timing and motivation 

Ultimately timing and motivation is important in the success of any mental health program. If your teen is not ready to try a certain type of support, give them space and ask them what other kinds of activities they would be open to trying. 

There are many different ways that your teen can improve their well-being. There are mentoring programs, school based services that provide social-emotional support, sports teams, and specific interest clubs (Scouts, 4H) that can provide a supportive network for your teen. 

Reach out to local schools and community groups for resources specific to your community. If you would like more information on Appa Health and our mentoring program, feel free to schedule a free consultation call with us here.