Talking to Parents About Mental Health Concerns: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults

Preparing for the Conversation

• Choose a calm time (not during conflict or rush).
• Write down what you want to say: specific symptoms (sleep, appetite, mood, thoughts), duration, impact.
• Anticipate reactions: worry, denial, guilt, minimization. Plan responses.

Conversation Framework

1. "I" statements: "I've been feeling..." not "You make me feel..."
2. Be specific: "I can't sleep, I've lost 10 lbs, I cry daily" > "I'm depressed."
3. Clarify intent: "I want a check-up to understand what's going on" – not "I'm crazy."
4. Ask for support: "I need you to help me find a doctor/therapist."
5. Provide resources: NAMI, Crisis Text Line (HOME to 741741), 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sample Scripts

• "Mom/Dad, I've been struggling. I'm exhausted but can't sleep, I don't enjoy anything, and I'm scared. Can we see a doctor together?"
• "I know this is hard to hear. I'm not asking you to fix it—I'm asking you to help me get help."

If They Resist

• Give them time; revisit.
• Enlist another trusted adult (aunt, counselor, pediatrician).
• If safety concern (suicidality, self-harm): call 988 or go to ER – you can initiate this yourself.

You deserve support. Professional help works.