Life can be rocky for even the most well-behaved teenagers. Intense pressure from peers, schoolwork, and college acceptances can be overwhelming. Combined with a rapidly developing body and brain, it’s not unusual for teens to struggle with mental health concerns from time to time. As a parent, proper support can make a huge difference in their lives. However, it can be challenging at times to determine whether you’re helping your teen or making things worse. Knowing when and how to step in and support your child is an excellent first step.

Recognize Warning Signs

It can be challenging to support a teen who is struggling when you’re unsure what to look for. While it’s true that many teens experiment with alcohol or experience mood swings, severe addiction or uncontrollable anger isn’t a normal part of adolescence. Watch out for major changes in sleep schedules or eating patterns, school truancy, major grade drops, self-harm, increased sensitivity to criticism, and avoidant behaviors. These symptoms may stem from a larger issue that requires your love and support.

Start Open Conversations

It’s easier for your teenager to be honest and talk with you when they know that open, honest conversations are allowed. Don’t react to your child out of fear or anger. Don’t punish their honesty, even if they discuss improper behavior. Affirm their emotions and reassure them that feelings like anger, sadness, or jealousy are normal and can be regulated without unhealthy responses.

Ask specific questions that they can answer directly, such as, “You seem upset, did something happen today?” Show genuine interest in all aspects of their lives, rather than just trying to elicit gossip or misbehavior. You also don’t want to force them to talk; this can lead to resentment instead of appreciation.

Lead By Example

Your child may feel vulnerable or nervous to approach you about serious topics. You can show them the way by introducing these topics yourself. Discuss your emotions and feelings when your day goes particularly well or poorly. Admit when you reacted badly or impulsively, and how you made better changes and learned for future occurrences. Regularly consult mental health professionals on your own to establish a positive connection. When you establish yourself as a relatable and admirable figure, you’ll be a more accessible source of support.

Enforce and Respect Boundaries

Your teenager is growing up, so they may enjoy some more flexible freedoms. However, they’re still a child, and structure can help them use freedom responsibly. Consider setting a curfew, even if it is generous. Make sure they’re getting enough sleep by enforcing a reasonable bedtime. Show them the importance of boundaries and respect their privacy within reason. The more you try to encroach on their territory, the more likely they will want to hide things from you.

Maintain a Positive Home Environment

A healthy and happy home life makes a significant difference in a child’s life, especially during adolescence when hormones and rapid development can make things stressful. Keep arguments and conflicts to a minimum. Make sure to spend quality time with your kids and find ways to emotionally connect with them, such as playing games, having movie nights, and cooking meals together. Demonstrate responsible lifestyle habits, including regular meal times, healthy nutrition, and consistent bedtime routines.

Keep an Eye on Screen Time

Your teen will likely enjoy a fair share of time on their phone. While social media activity is normal, it can easily become a source of stress when it is relied on too heavily. Encourage screen time limits by engaging in their interests at home and providing alternative sources for fun and happiness. Don’t be afraid to limit screen time if you feel it’s becoming excessive and affecting their self-esteem.

Know When to Ask for Help

If your efforts aren’t yielding results, or your teen’s mental health symptoms are getting worse, it could be a sign of a medical problem or environmental trauma that you may be unaware of. There is nothing wrong with getting professional help for mental health. In fact, a positive mental health professional can make a major difference in one’s life, even if they are fairly mentally healthy.

If your teen talks about or engages in unsafe behavior, including self-harm, suicide attempts, substance abuse, major depression, or intense anxiety, you likely will need the help of a mental health professional or doctor. Professional intervention isn’t a parental or moral failing. Some mental health conditions or trauma can be incredibly difficult for you and your teen to manage alone. 

You can ask your pediatrician or school for resources if you don’t know where to look. Family therapy is a great option if you think the entire home needs more support, too. Outside resources can give you both the tools to succeed. Youth residential facilities can help your child manage drug addiction or mental health disorders, but be sure to thoroughly vet these resources before choosing one.

Study reviews, ask for second opinions, tour communities, and regularly check in with your teen, as they’re usually long-term stay facilities. Most communities are safe and excellent resources for you and your child, but a lack of due diligence can lead to further harm. A recent sexual abuse lawsuit against an Illinois youth residential facility showed that improper background checks resulted in patient abuse. Be sure the resources you use are operating completely above board.

It can be a long and tiring journey to stay on top of your teenager’s mental health. As difficult as it is, it becomes a lot easier when you encourage honesty, respect boundaries, and show your teen emotional and physical support. Know the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders or conditions in order to keep your teen safe. Professional intervention can provide you with the resources and tools to create a safer and happier environment for your child. Good parenting is a full-time and often thankless job, but your child can thrive and grow with the right mental health support.