Talking About Mental Health
High school is the prime time for honing your emotional intelligence and self-awareness. We want our teens to grow into resilient, empathetic, and empowered adults with all the tools to navigate life’s challenges. Conversations about mental health are so important to building a foundation for ongoing understanding, connection, and support.
Here's why talking about feelings with our kids matters; and how we can navigate these conversations effectively as parents, mentors, and educators.
Why Talking About Mental Health Matters
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet stigma often prevents open dialogue. Normalising discussions about emotional wellbeing helps teens feel less isolated, and more comfortable seeking help when they need it.
By regularly checking in and showing an interest in discussing emotional struggles, teens learn that it’s okay to not be okay. This shift in perspective can break cycles of silence and stigma, encouraging early intervention and support when it’s needed most.
And when our kids feel safe to express their emotions, it creates a habit for speaking up in future. They’re better equipped to advocate for themselves in healthy relationships, the workplace, social situations and more.
Talking about mental health doesn’t just benefit the individual — it has a ripple effect on families, schools, and communities, creating environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
How to Start Conversations About Mental Health with Teens
Starting the conversation can be tricky, but the right approach can make all the difference.
Choose Your Time and Place
Find a quiet, comfortable, and casual space. If discussions about emotions only happen in formal settings where you aren’t able to relax, children may come to view these topics as overly serious, intimidating, or awkward — making them less likely to bring these topics up in everyday life.
Let Them Lead
Keep things supportive and non-intrusive, giving teens the space to guide the discussion at their own pace. This can help ease any pressure they might feel. Something like “how have you been feeling lately” or “what’s on your mind” is a great conversation starter because it’s direct yet open-ended. As the conversation progresses, give prompts like “can you tell me more about that?”.
Share Your Own Experiences
Being open about your own feelings or challenges can help break down barriers. It shows that struggles are a natural part of life and not something to be ashamed of. It also creates a sense of two-way trust between you and your child or student. That’s why our Big Sister Experience founders Kritz and Bianca have been very open about their mental health journeys.
Practice Active Listening
While it may be tempting to jump in with problem-solving, sometimes teens just need someone to listen. Active listening is more than just hearing the words someone says — it’s about truly understanding their perspective and making them feel valued and supported. For teens, who may already feel misunderstood or hesitant to share, this approach is especially important.
Be fully present and let them talk without interruption, giving small affirmations like “I hear you”, “that makes sense”, or “that sounds really tough” to provide reassurance and validate their emotions.
Avoid Judgement
Words have power. The language you use can shape how teens perceive mental health. Stick to neutral, empathetic phrases and steer clear of labels or assumptions that might cause them to feel self-conscious. Don’t invalidate or police their feelings; they should feel like they can be open and honest without fear of being criticised, dismissed, or getting in trouble. Phrases like “I’m proud of you for sharing this” or “It’s brave to talk about your feelings” can make a big impact on how young people approach conversations about mental health with you and their peers.
Instead of saying “you’re overreacting” try “it’s okay to feel this way.”
Instead of “that sounds tough, ” or “I really want to help, I’m here for you”.
Instead of “try to stop worrying about that” say “this is hard for now, but you won’t feel like this forever” and look into some strategies to manage their anxiety.
Instead of “why are you acting like this?” try “I’ve noticed you seem different — what’s going on?”
Follow Up
Support doesn’t stop when the conversation ends. Check in later to show you care and are still thinking about what they shared. Even if it’s an email, or a text, ask “how have things been since we talked?” or let them know you’ve been thinking about the conversation and are here for them if they want to talk more.
Tips for Making the Conversation Approachable
Integrate Mental Health into Everyday Topics
Talk about mental health casually, like you would physical health. For example, “I’ve been feeling stressed — how do you deal with stress?”
Provide Resources
Normalise seeking professional help by discussing therapy, support groups, or helplines. You might say, “Lots of people talk to someone when they feel overwhelmed, it’s like seeing a coach for your mind.” At school, participation in mental health workshops and programs can open up a gateway for students to talk about their struggles.
Foster a Safe Environment
You should be a safe space for your children and/or students. Make it clear they won’t be punished, dismissed, or criticised for what they share — but that help is always available if and when they need it.
The Importance of Normalising Mental Health Conversations
Talking openly about mental health normalises the idea that emotions and struggles are a part of life. This way, teens become resilient adults who are capable of overcoming any challenges life throws at them.
When our kids see us treating mental health with care and openness, they’re more likely to follow suit. We have the power to help the next generation to face mental health challenges head-on —with more compassion, resilience, and understanding than any other generation.
Start the conversation today. You never know whose life it might change.
Start the conversion with us to see how The Big Sister Experience can help. Book a call now!