“I’m Worried About My Teenager’s Mental Health… What Should I Do?”
As a parent, it can be deeply unsettling to notice changes in your teenager that leave you wondering, “Is this just part of being a teen… or is something more going on?” If you’re worried about your teenager’s mental health, you’re not alone—and your concern is valid. Mental health struggles are increasingly common among teens, and early support can make a big difference.
Here’s what you need to know—and what you can do next.
Signs to Watch For
Adolescence is a time of change - emotionally, socially, and biologically. So it’s normal for teenagers to be moody, withdrawn at times, or to seek more independence. However, there are some signs that may indicate something more serious is going on, including:
Sudden changes in mood, behaviour, or sleep
Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
Withdrawing from friends or family
Changes in appetite or weight
Declining school performance
Irritability, anger, or extreme emotional outbursts
Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness
Self-harm behaviours or talk of suicide
If you notice one or more of these signs and they persist for more than a couple of weeks, it may be time to seek professional support from a psychologist.
Talking With Your Teen
Try to open a gentle, non-judgmental conversation with your teen. You don’t need to have all the answers - just offering your presence and listening ear can go a long way. You might say:
“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a bit down lately, and I’m wondering how you’re going. I’m always here to talk if you need me.”
Keep in mind that teens may not always open up right away. Be patient, keep the door open, and try to maintain a calm and supportive tone - even if what you hear is hard to digest. Sometimes seeking the support of a psychologist for yourself can also be helpful, as parent wellbeing during these hard moments of adolescence is just as important for a teenager’s wellbeing.
When to See a Psychologist
If you’re still concerned after speaking with your teen, or if they’re reluctant to talk at all, it may be time to consult a psychologist. You don’t need a crisis to justify seeking help. Psychologists can offer support for:
Anxiety and depression
School or friendship issues
Self-esteem struggles
Coping with stress or life changes
Family conflict
Identity or neurodivergence-related concerns
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Even a few sessions can give your teen space to process what’s going on, and help them learn practical tools for emotional regulation and resilience.
What If My Teen Doesn’t Want to Go?
It’s common for teenagers to feel unsure or resistant about seeing a psychologist. You can try to frame it as a supportive step, not a punishment:
“Seeing someone doesn’t mean there’s something ‘wrong’ with you—it just means you have a safe space to talk and get support. Lots of people do it.”
You might offer a trial session, or involve them in choosing who they see (some teens like reading about psychologists online or choosing someone they feel they can relate to).
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Parenting a teenager can be tough at the best of times, and it’s especially hard when you’re worried about their wellbeing. If you’re unsure what to do next, reaching out to a psychologist for a parent-only consultation can also help. They can guide you on whether your teen would benefit from therapy, and how best to support them at home.
Remember: early support can make a meaningful difference. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength—not failure.
Need Support?
If you’d like to chat about whether your teen could benefit from psychological support or an assessment, please feel free to contact us for a confidential discussion.
You're not alone and help is available.