key takeaways
for teens:
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1. Reflect. Try to put what you are feeling or experiencing into words.
This can be hard. Just … start.
Consider writing.
Consider recording yourself saying your thoughts out loud.
If you need to, try an alternative, like painting, to express your feelings.
Feel free to throw away or delete anything you create.
2. Seek support from a trusted, supportive adult.
Look at our advice for adults below. Do you know someone that could play that role? Maybe a teacher, coach, family member, or friend’s parent?
If you are not sure, ask peers for advice about who to approach.
3. Talk … even if it’s scary. You can start by sharing a little at a time. You will feel better, though it may not feel that way right away. There is power in having someone hear your words.
4. Keep talking. Keep connecting. Mental health can be confusing and difficult terrain, so be patient and kind with yourself.
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1. Expand what you talk about. When did your difficulties originate? What is changing? What are your goals? What does feeling better look like for you?
2. As you talk, take note of what you are saying about yourself. Begin to question and then challenge negative thoughts and beliefs.
3. Consider professional help, like therapy or medication.
Therapists are trained to help you reflect on what is happening, so you can understand your experiences and develop healthier ways to cope.
You may have to advocate for this support. It can be scary to ask for help. We’ve included some tips in our resources.
You may need to try more than one therapist to find one that’s a good fit.
4. Consider activities that calm the mind, like yoga, meditation, or exercise. Or try activities that focus the mind, like painting, journaling, or playing an instrument. Some people find one or more of these activities quite helpful. -
Expand your conversations with yourself and others. Consider the big questions: Who are you? What was your path to today? Who do you want to become? What are your values? What is your purpose?
Remember … Your mental health does not define you. It is one piece of your life story.
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Let your friends know that helping to connect a peer with a supportive adult is a huge act of friendship.
Seek connection with peers. Isolation worsens mental health symptoms.
You are not alone. Lots of people are struggling. Some have had experiences similar to yours.
Mental health recovery takes effort, but it is worth it. Keep at it, even when there are speed bumps. You’ll get there.
the basics
for supportive adults:
the basics
1. Connect.
If you can, try side-by-side activities to build comfort.
If you can, create opportunities for self-expression.
2. Create a safe space for receiving the teen’s story. If you can, offer an appropriate vulnerability of your own.
3. Admire the bravery it takes for a teen to ask for help, or to share their story.
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4. Wait.
5. Be present and patient.
6. When the teen shares, stay calm.
7. Validate emotions.
8. Listen with curiosity.
9. Ask, but don’t prod. Let the teen lead.
10. Don’t try to fix anything that isn’t dangerous.
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Be aware that lots of teens are hurting under the surface. It doesn’t always show.
You don’t need to be a therapist to provide enormously valuable support.
If you are unsure about how urgently a teen might need professional help, consult a professional, such as a school social worker or psychologist.
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Be ready to be a Supportive Adult. Connect. Create a safe space.
Be aware that the parent-child relationship has many complexities. Therefore, parent-adjacent role models are often better positioned to provide support.
Encourage your child's connection with a Supportive Adult.
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