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3 Ways To Discuss Mental Health Management With Your Teen

Picture of Stonewater Recovery By   ·  2 minute read
The changes and challenges that teens go through during adolescence make them more vulnerable to mental health problems. Good mental health allows your teen to be more productive, perform better in school, and develop fulfilling relationships. It also allows them to adapt to changes in their life and effectively cope with stress. It is, therefore, necessary to discuss mental health management with your teen to ensure healthy development. Talking about mental health management with your teen is a sensitive topic. Your teen might not feel comfortable talking about their feelings and emotional states. Many parents aren't prepared to help their teens manage their mental health. Fortunately, there is help available. If you need assistance with this challenge, our adolescent recovery center can help. Contact Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center today at 662.373.2828 for more information about how we help teens manage their mental health.

What Are Some of the Mental Health Disorders in Teens?

Generally, teens display several changes in behavior during adolescence. Bouts of anger and mood swings may characterize this period. These changes are normal if it happens occasionally. However, if the negative emotional states and erratic behaviors persist, it might indicate a mental health problem. The most common mental health disorders in teens include:
  • Generalized anxiety
  • Social anxiety
  • Depression
  • PTSD
  • Bipolar disorder
Treatment for these conditions involves identifying triggers and eliminating them, followed by counseling and medication. However, it's also important to discuss ways to manage your teen's mental health symptoms.

Three Ways to Discuss Mental Health Management With Your Teen

1. Pick the Right Setting and Time

Take your teen out for lunch or ask them to join you in doing an activity. The goal is to find the most comfortable set of conditions for both of you to open up the conversation. Ensure that they feel at ease and that they are in a light mood before beginning the conversation.

2. Encourage Your Teen to Share Their Feelings

Make a deliberate effort to check in with your teen. Ask questions about their day at school or their friends to know how they are doing. Encourage your teen to talk about their feelings. Explain that talking helps to put things into perspective and gain more clarity on their situation by talking about it. If they aren't comfortable talking about their feelings with you, respect that and encourage them to open up to someone with whom they'll feel more at ease.

3. Reassure Your Teen

Let your teen know that mental health problems are normal, and they are treatments available. Empathize with them when they share their feelings. Let them know that you understand what they are going through and that you are there for them no matter what.

How Can You Promote Mental Health in Your Teen?

Positive mental health does not only mean a lack of mental disorders. It also means continuously promoting the teen's emotional well-being to allow them to blossom into a healthy, well-rounded adult. You can promote your teen's mental health in the following ways:
  • Please encourage them to self-educate on teen mental health management.
  • Show them love, affection, and care.
  • Compliment them on their achievements, no matter how small. This action boosts their courage to take up more serious responsibilities.
  • Spend time with your teen to let them know that you are interested in what goes on in their life and that you are there to help if necessary.
  • You can also encourage them to take care of their physical health by exercising, adopting healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, and abstaining from drug and alcohol abuse.
If you notice that your teen's mental health is compromised, reach out to an accredited adolescent treatment center for professional assistance.

Contact Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center

At Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center, we ensure your teen is backed by an entire team of nurses, clinical therapists, academic advisors, and clinical assistants to ensure prompt recovery. For long-term recovery, we also offer treatment programs such as: Contact Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center today at 662.373.2828 to learn more about teen mental health management.