By: Jennifer Pearl
Being able to communicate what’s on your mind with your loved ones is the first step to looking after your mental health. But sometimes, talking to your parents about your feelings and needs can feel difficult.
Everyone, parents included, can relate to this feeling of not wanting to open up or share thoughts, opinions, or experiences with someone else. Parents should be mindful of how they react to things their teenagers say or do. They should also try to create an open and safe environment free from any prejudice. Teenagers go through a lot physical changes, school workload, the increasing pressure to be socially acceptable. All these are quite a lot for a growing mind and body. They have questions and opinions. They want to say the big things and the little things. And they need ears that listen like it all matters. It does to them. While the times have changed, we were all once teenagers. If you are a parent, ask yourself, how would you have wanted to be heard and understood then?
Put your thoughts together. If you feel overwhelmed, you don’t have to go through it all at once. Just sharing some of what you’ve been feeling is a great first step, and you can continue to talk over the next few days or weeks as you open up more. Choose a time when your parents are free to talk or start off by telling them that you want to talk to them about something important. Be honest and open if you have decided to speak, speak with your heart. You may hesitate about bringing emotional or mental health issues to parents, worrying that they won’t take you seriously or that the conversation could feel embarrassing. It’s understandable, but remember most times parents just want the best for their children. Be patient and don’t be discouraged. Your parents might have lots of questions for you. They might want to know how long things have been like this, or what they can do to help. Be prepared for this, and let them know if you’re feeling overwhelmed and need to take a break. Don’t be afraid to seek counselling. Ask your parents to help you book an appointment with a doctor. You might also ask your parents to accompany you to see a therapist.
