Mental health problems in young adults are highly prevalent yet often go unnoticed. Studies show that one in seven young people experience a mental health disorder, and it could persist into their adulthood if untreated.
Limited knowledge about mental health and negative perceptions about seeking help are the most common reasons why young people avoid talking about the subject. Oftentimes, parents are either oblivious to the changes in their kids’ mental health or don’t know how to initiate a conversation about mental health.
They’re often met with the proverbial “I am fine,” when concerned about their kids’ mental well-being. So, how can you talk about mental health to your teen or young adult?
Be Open About Your Feelings
The best way to initiate this conversation is to be as genuine and open as possible about your feelings. Young adults can sense when their parents are anxious or uncomfortable talking about some subjects.
You can say, “Talking about this subject is somewhat uncomfortable for both of us, but I’d like us to be open about everything, even the most difficult feelings you could be feeling.” When you talk about your feelings, you allow the young person to ease into the subject, and express themselves.
Find a Time, Place, or Activity You Both Enjoy
Finding a time, place, or activity you both enjoy somewhat breaks the ice. Many parents often assume the car is the best place to talk to their young adults, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, the car is the place they want to unwind while listening to music after a long day at school.
Also, you want to avoid initiating the conversation in the morning when everyone is getting ready to go to school or work. It would help to find an activity the young adult enjoys doing and initiate the conversation while at it. If they love playing video games, cards, basketball, cooking, or other activities, join in and talk to them.
Resist the Urge to Push Them
Sometimes, parents come off as pushy when the teens insist they’re fine yet exhibiting signs of a mental health problem. It would help to resist the urge to prove that narrative and give them space.
Check on them regularly, reassuring them that you’re ready to talk when they’re. If they’re having a bad day, allow them to relax and follow up by saying, “It seems like today wasn’t the best day; come tell me all about it.”
Such a statement makes them feel safe and comfortable to talk about their day and the feelings they could be struggling with. Remember, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad (Prov 12:25).”
Suggest Other Support Systems Available
If the young adult doesn’t feel comfortable discussing mental health problems with you, consider suggesting other support systems available. It could be a trusted family member, a school counselor, an online support group for the youth, or a therapist. You could provide them with phone numbers so they can reach such people for a confidential conversation.
Set Boundaries
Parents are often tempted to share their kids’ experiences with other adults in a bid to help them. Such actions hardly yield fruit and often leave teens feeling insecure and more defensive. Keep in mind that your kids are now adults and value privacy just as you do.
It would help to set clear boundaries in your relationship and resist the urge to break them. You create a sense of security because they know what they can share with their parents and what happens with that information.
Be a Good Listener
Many parents dominate the conversation, providing little time for the young person to express themselves. This can be counterproductive as the young person may feel judged. The most effective way of addressing mental health problems in young adults is to listen to them.
Give them attention and remove any distractions that could interrupt the conversation. Avoid feeling like you have to talk when they’re quiet; instead, give them a breather and let them continue talking when ready.
Remember, you don’t have to solve the problem immediately. Sometimes, they only need to express their feelings to understand what they’re dealing with.
Conclusion
Initiating conversations about mental health with teenagers or young adults can be challenging. However, the points discussed can help break the ice, allowing them to talk about their mental well-being. Remember to share your feelings too, listen more, and be supportive if they prefer talking to other people.
