Talking About Mental Health With Teens

We talked to Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) vice president Tramaine EL-Amin about ways to recognize if a teen is struggling with their mental health, and how to start a conversation about it.

What are some tips for starting a conversation with a teenager about the importance of mental health? In a non-crisis situation, here are some tips for starting a conversation with a teenager about the importance of mental health:

• Plan to talk privately about your concerns at a mutually convenient time in a place free of distractions. If the teen appears preoccupied or busy, you may want to wait until they are less distracted.

• Let the young person know you are ready when they are — do not put pressure on them to talk right away.

• Allow the youth to express their thoughts uninterrupted. When appropriate, ask questions, but do not push.

• Set aside your own beliefs and reactions to focus on the needs of the youth to be heard, understood, and helped.

• Ensure you do not express any negative judgements and respect the youth and their experience.

What are some signs that a teenager may be experiencing a mental health challenge?

A mental health challenge is defined by Mental Health

First Aid as a major change in a youth’s thinking, feeling, or action that interferes with their ability to live their life; the interference lasts longer than typical emotions or reactions would be expected to.

Teens may not always know how to talk about what they are experiencing or ask an adult for help. That’s why it’s important for adults who interact with young people frequently, such as parents, teachers, or coaches, to recognize the signs that a teen may be experiencing a mental health challenge, and how to connect them to appropriate support.

Potential warning signs that a teenager may be asking for help with a mental health challenge include:

• Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities

• Frequently arguing with adults and/or purposely breaking rules; displaying aggressive behavior

• Losing interest in favorite activities and not replacing with other pursuits

• Difficulty remaining focused and maintaining concentration across a variety of tasks and settings.