May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on the importance of mental health, especially for young people. Kids In Crisis works hard to support the youth in Fairfield County. Our 18 TeenTalk counselors, who all have master’s-level degrees, are in schools every day helping students with their mental health. This month, we asked them for their best advice on how to be there for your teenager or someone you care about when they open up about their feelings.
Here are the top tips they shared.
First, take a deep breath. You do not have all the answers, but by listening, you can make a difference.
Do:
- Listen actively: Pay close attention to what your friend is saying. Let them know you are paying attention by making eye contact and using body language that shows that you are engaged. Resist talking about your own personal experiences unless they ask you.
- Validate their feelings: Let them know their feelings are real and important—use phrases like “It sounds like you’re going through a hard time” or “That must be really difficult.”
- Normalize their experience: Reassure them that there are resources available, that mental health is common, and that talking about it is a strength, not a weakness.
- Prepare to follow up; it takes courage for them to tell you how they feel. Follow up with them to see how they are doing and if there is anything you can do. If they are open to it, maybe come with resources on hand.
Don’t:
- Avoid minimizing their feelings; avoid telling them how they should feel or that “it could be worse.” This could dismiss their experiences and make them feel unheard.
- Automatically assume they are looking for advice. Ask if they would like suggestions before offering them.
- You do not have to solve their problems. Offer support but also understand that some situations require professional help.
- What they share with you should stay confidential unless they express immediate harm to themselves or others.
Remember, being a supportive listener is about creating a safe space for someone to express themselves. Kids In Crisis is here to help you and your loved ones. Our 24-hour hotline is always a resource for an ear to listen to. You can reach us anytime, day or night, at 203-661-1911.
Click here to see if there is a TeenTalk Counselor in your child’s school.
Finally, thank you to all our donors for your generous support. Your monthly contributions keep our TeenTalk counselors in schools and support our 24-hour mental health Helpline. They keep the focus on mental health not just in May but 365 days a year. Your dedication to youth mental health in Fairfield County makes all the difference.
