Opening the Door: Talking to Kids About Mental Health

Mental health challenges can arise at any age, and for children, understanding what’s happening and how to get help can be daunting. Awareness and encouragement from parents to keep lines of communication open can make all the difference in getting kids the help they need early on and sets a standard of self-care for a lifetime.

It’s not always easy for kids to open up when something’s bothering them. Some might be afraid of stressing out their parents or unsure how they'll react. Others might wonder if they’ll even be believed or taken seriously. That’s why it’s so important to create a safe space for open conversations about mental health. Talking about these things doesn’t cause problems; it may help prevent them. When we reduce the stigma around struggles and getting help, we make it easier to tackle issues early on, before they grow into something harder to manage.

How can I talk to my children about their mental health?

Normalize talking about mental health. Offer age-appropriate information about any family history of mental health problems, or other examples from real life. When you do so, your child may open up about a challenge they are experiencing or one that is impacting a friend. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If your child is hesitant to talk to you, encourage them to write you a letter or text you to start the conversation.

How do I create a safe environment for them to talk?

Offer an ear, then listen. Often, parents get into problem-solving mode, but it’s important to let your child finish their thoughts. Don’t get distracted; children need parents’ undivided attention. Let them know you’ve heard them by validating what they’ve said. Statements such as “That sounds difficult,” and “Your feelings are understandable,” work well. After, you can offer to share your ideas, then give them the choice as to whether they’d like your opinion or just need a listener.

Any tips for when they begin opening up about their mental health?

There are no right or wrong answers. We are all unique, and what might work well for one person may not for the next. Try to avoid judging or needing to be right when having these conversations with your child; focus on understanding, not being correct. Remember that this should be an ongoing conversation, not a “one and done.”

What are my next steps as a parent?

Find a trusted partner. Offer to help connect your child with a counselor or therapist. Reassure them that you are always available to listen, but if they are interested in additional input from a professional, you can work towards finding one. Start with your primary care provider, who can help you connect with resources.

It's important that parents keep in mind that the child should be the focus even when their struggles might elicit intense emotion or bring up issues that are yours, not theirs. Avoid making the conversation about your own experiences. Find someone you can confide in to express your feelings about what’s happening.

The new school year can bring new stresses for your child. By fostering a safe, nonjudgmental space for these conversations, parents can help their children feel seen, heard and supported. Mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness—they are a part of being human and addressing them early builds resilience. With understanding and open dialogue, families can lay the foundation for lifelong well-being.

Liz Davis, L.M.S.W., is a behavioral health therapist with the Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program at MyMichigan Medical Center Midland.