How to Talk to Your Teen About Mental Health

As a parent or caregiver, you may have noticed your teen withdrawing, acting out, or simply “not being themselves.” You want to help, but where do you begin? Mental health challenges in adolescence are common and increasing. Knowing how to talk to your teen about their mental health is one of the most important things you can do to support their overall well-being.

At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, conversations around mental health should be clear, compassionate, and ongoing. This guide offers practical, evidence-based tips tailored for families in Utah navigating this critical topic.

Why Mental Health Conversations Matter for Teens

Adolescence is a time of enormous change. Teens are developing emotionally, socially, and neurologically. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 teens experience a mental health disorder each year, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• ADHD
• Trauma-related symptoms
  
  

These challenges can be intensified by academic pressure, social media, identity exploration, and transitions into adulthood. Starting conversations early before a crisis hits builds trust, reduces stigma, and increases the chance your teen will ask for help when they need it.

Common Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling

It’s normal for teens to experience mood shifts. But if you notice the following changes lasting more than a few weeks, it may be time to talk:

If you live in cities like Taylorsville, Roy, or Brigham City, Bridgeway offers access to therapists trained in behavioral therapy for children and teens. These professionals can help assess symptoms and provide family-centered care.

Step-by-Step: How to Talk to Your Teen About Mental Health

1. Create a Safe Environment

Choose a quiet, non-judgmental space. Make sure you’re both calm. Avoid starting the conversation in the heat of an argument or when they’re rushing out the door.

Try Saying

“Hey, I’ve been thinking about how you’ve been feeling lately. I’m here to talk if you ever want to.”

2. Use Open-Ended Questions

Avoid yes/no questions that can shut down the conversation. Instead, explore how they’re feeling.

Try Asking

• “What’s been on your mind lately?”
• “How are things going with your friends?”
• “Is there anything you’re stressed about right now?”

3. Validate Their Experience

Even if you don’t understand or agree, meet them where they are.

Try Saying

“I get that this feels overwhelming for you. That makes sense.”

Avoid minimizing comments like “It’s not that bad” or “You’ll get over it.”

4. Share Your Observations Gently

If you’ve noticed concerning behavior, name it without judgment.

Example

“I’ve noticed you’ve been staying in your room a lot more and not going out with your friends. Is something going on?”

5. Normalize Mental Health Care

Let them know that mental health is just as important as physical health.

You Can Say

“Just like we’d go to a doctor for a stomachache, it’s okay to see a counselor when things feel heavy.”

Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services offers mental health therapy near me at locations in Salt Lake City, St. George, Cedar City, and more—making support accessible across Utah.

What If My Teen Doesn’t Want to Talk?

It’s common for teens to resist at first. Keep showing up. Be consistent, not pushy.

Tips for Maintaining Connection

• Send a supportive text
• Offer to do an activity together
• Share a podcast or article about mental health
• Mention stories of public figures who’ve sought help
  
  

Eventually, many teens open up once they trust that you’ll listen without judgment.