Survey Reveals Alarming Lack of Mental Health Support for Teens at Home; Expert Advocates Normalizing Conversations

A survey of 500 parents and teens aged 13-17 revealed that many teenagers lack essential mental health support. Barriers often stem from home environments, with about one-third of teens who needed “mental health support for teens” not seeking it due to discomfort, while parents admitted feeling unprepared.

A recent survey reveals an alarming lack of mental health support for teens. (PHOTO: Creating Change Psychology and Counselling)

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Survey Exposes Critical Shortage of Mental Health Support for Teens within Families

A recent survey highlighted a concerning issue: many teenagers aren’t getting the mental support they need, and it often begins within their own families. According to a published article in SheKnows, this “mental health support for teens” survey involved 500 parents and teenagers aged 13-17. Surprisingly, around one-third of the teenagers who weren’t receiving counseling felt that it could really help them. However, they didn’t seek help because they felt embarrassed, uneasy discussing it with their parents, or believed their parents didn’t think it was necessary.

The “mental health support for teens” survey also revealed that teenagers found it hardest to talk to their parents about their emotions, anxiety, and feeling down. Parents, too, admitted they weren’t prepared to tackle tough subjects like preventing suicide, dealing with deep sadness, or managing intense worries when it came to their kids.

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Building a Supportive Environment for Mental Health Support for Teens

To address these challenges, the survey offers some ideas. They suggest creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere at home where everyone feels comfortable discussing their feelings. Encouraging teenagers to express their emotions in a healthy way is also crucial. Additionally, parents should be aware of signs that their child might be deeply sad and know how to help them find professional assistance if needed. The ultimate aim is to make it simpler for parents and teenagers to talk openly about mental health.

Dr. Dina Romo, a mental health support for teens expert, supports these ideas. She emphasizes that talking about mental health should be something normal for all of us and that it’s never too late to start making these conversations easier for teenagers and their parents.

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