Mental health discussions may already be common among some families. But for most families, the topic is something never talked about in the open. Trying to bring it up may even feel a bit awkward at first.
However, once you do it more often, you and your whole family will also feel more comfortable about it. What matters here is to give it a try.
Since most families have teens who might be suffering from mental health problems due to the pandemic or something else, talking about mental health is now more important than ever.
Clueless about how to get started? Here are a few strategies to help you begin your mental health talks with your teens a little bit easier and less awkward:
Table of Contents
Don’t Dodge Tough Topics
Don’t hesitate to ask if you suspect that someone is having some suicidal thoughts. Once you confirm it, make sure you seek help from professionals and contact emergency services.
Contrary to popular belief, discussions about suicide won’t make things worse or push the person to do it. For all you know, a simple talk may be all it takes to finally wash away these negative thoughts from the person’s mind.
Also, don’t be afraid to share the traumatic events you or the two of you might have been through in the past. Just make sure you watch closely to see if they are comfortable with it.
While some teens may be more open to talking, others might find it uncomfortable to discuss traumatic situations. Or sometimes, they might refuse to do so right away. Avoid pressuring them and just let things take their course.
Brush Up Your Knowledge of Mental Health
Most people have already experienced anxiety, depression, or other similar mental health conditions. For some people, however, these are completely new and unfamiliar topics. If you have no idea what these conditions are all about, try to educate yourself about them first before you discuss them with your teen.
You also need to know the signs you should watch out for. Below are some of the most common signs that someone is suffering from a mental health condition:
- Worrying a lot
- Feeling withdrawn or sad for several weeks
- Getting into fights with other people
- Experiencing severe mood swings
Consider Their Situation
Teens go through a lot of changes at this point in their lives. This is when they spend less time with their families and hang out more with friends. Some teens also learn to drive or even get their first part-time job. All of these are normal aspects of their development as a person.
Their brain is also developing during this time. The specific parts that are responsible for controlling impulses and making decisions aren’t fully developed just yet. Social media also has a significant impact on the lives of teens these days. Put yourself in their shoes and consider their situation and how sensitive these years are for them.
