
Between 2009 and 2019, the percentage of teens who reported having “persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness” rose from 26 percent to 37 percent and, in 2021, to 44 percent. Further, research shows that 1 in 5 youth in distress felt that they didn’t have someone they could turn to in a crisis. How can we let our teens know we’re here for them and protect them from significant mental health challenges? How do we know what to say, or even where to begin? In today’s podcast episode, CHC clinical services expert, Dr. Tracy Cavaligos shares myriad tips and takeaways for talking to our teens about mental health.
RESOURCES
Learn more about CHC’s Clinical Services
Learn more about Evaluations
Reading Resources:
First Responders for Mental Health Challenges
State Legislative Toolkit: Mental Health First Aid
Seeking Help for a Mental Health Problem
Mental Health.gov For Friends and Family Members
How to Help in an Emotional Crisis
Helping Others with Mental Health Problems
Tips to Help a Person with Mental Illness
HEARD Alliance K-12 Toolkit for Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Intervention
Mental Illness in Children: Know the Signs
Talking to Kids About Mental Illnesses
Articles:
How to Help Teens Put Less Pressure on Themselves
Amid a National Mental Health Crisis for Kids, Here’s How Parents Can Help
How to Talk to Children and Teens About Suicide: A Guide for Parents
Talk About Mental Health: For Friends and Family Members
My Teenager Doesn’t Want Help. What Should I Do?
How To Talk — And Listen — To A Teen With Mental Health Struggles
Talking To Adolescents and Teens About Mental Health
Related podcast episodes:
Considering Therapy for Your Child? How to Get Kids and Teens on Board


