Talking to Kids About Mental Health
Every parent and caregiver, no matter their age, is forced to navigate tough conversations with their kids and can play a vital role in supporting their emotional well-being. Below are tips and resources from mental health experts to help you start the conversation, improve how you respond and go further on specific issues. You can also find out how to A.S.K. – Acknowledge, Support, and Keep-in-Touch – a simple yet powerful emotional support tool to keep in your back pocket.
Start The Conversation
Figuring out how best to approach your kids about their feelings can feel daunting, and that’s why these organizations have given great tips for where to begin, what language to consider, and how to make checking in and opening up a daily habit with your kids.
Listen and Provide Support
When young people open up about what they’re going through, it’s important to listen, acknowledge their feelings, and provide support. Check out these tips to practice active listening and tackle tough topics together.
Go Further
If you want to dig deeper and find more ways you can be there for your kids, check out this parenting guide, podcast, and framework, as well as specific tools for non-caregiver adults looking to reach a child in their life, and caregivers of kids who have left the home.
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Child Mind Institute: Parenting Resources
Find specific ways to support your child’s unique challenges – from behavior problems to bedwetting.
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Child Mind Institute: Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids
Watch a series of free videos with practical, evidence-based information and skills to address your most common parenting challenges.
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Ask Lisa Podcast: How do you help a kid who shuts you out?
Dr. Lisa Damour teaches us ways to bring feelings and emotions out of our kids and help them get comfortable talking
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The JED Foundation (JED): Caring for your Child’s Mental Health from Afar
Learn how to take care of your child when they go off to college by planning ahead and staying close.
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NAMI: Be a trusted adult for young people in your life & set boundaries
Not a parent or caregiver but part of a young person’s broader support network? This is for you.
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Active Minds: Learn how to A.S.K.- Acknowledge, Support, and Keep-in-touch
Learn the Stop, Drop, and Roll for emotional support so you know how to show up for your loved ones when they need you most.
Need help now?
If you’re struggling and need to talk to someone, you’re not alone. There are lots of free, confidential resources available 24/7.
