7 Effective Strategies to Support Your Teen’s Mental Health and Well-Being

Parenting a teenager can feel like a rollercoaster—full of highs, lows, and unexpected twists. When mental health struggles enter the picture, it can quickly become overwhelming. How do you support your teen when their mental health is in crisis, while also taking care of yourself?

In a recent episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, we were honored to speak with Jamie Edelbrock, award-winning author and passionate mental health advocate. As a mother of three teenage daughters and a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Jamie brings both personal experience and professional insights to the table. Her journey—from raising a neurodiverse child to becoming a fierce mental health advocate—offers powerful lessons for parents navigating similar challenges.

Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Affects Everyone

One of Jamie’s key messages? Mental health struggles are not a reflection of bad parenting. Genetics, environment, and life experiences all play a role in a teen’s well-being. The sooner we let go of guilt and focus on actionable steps, the better equipped we’ll be to support our kids.

Jamie’s family’s experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism opened her eyes to the importance of advocacy. Instead of asking, "Why is this happening?" she shifted to, "How can I help?" This mindset shift is crucial for any parent supporting a teen through mental health struggles.

7 Key Strategies for Supporting Your Teen’s Mental Health

1. Build Trust Through Open Communication

Your teen needs to feel they can talk to you without fear of judgment. Create a space where they can express their struggles—even the hard-to-hear ones.

2. Let Go of Guilt

Many parents blame themselves when their teens face mental health challenges. Jamie learned through therapy that mental health issues aren't a direct result of parenting mistakes. Shifting from blame to action makes all the difference.

3. Focus on Connection Over Control

Teens crave autonomy. Trying to control every aspect of their lives can push them away. Instead, prioritize connection. Be a trusted guide, not a strict enforcer.

4. Encourage a Support Network

Sometimes, teens open up more to someone other than their parents. Having a trusted mentor, therapist, or family friend in their corner can provide vital additional support.

5. Prioritize Your Own Mental Health

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Jamie emphasizes that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Whether it’s therapy, exercise, or simply setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care helps you be a stronger, more present parent.

6. Empower Your Teen to Make Choices

Rather than micromanaging, help your teen make informed decisions. When they feel ownership over their choices, they’re more likely to build resilience and confidence.

7. The Power of Perspective: "It’s Not About Me"

Jamie shared a game-changing mantra: “It’s not about me.” When our teens pull away, make decisions we don’t understand, or struggle in ways we can’t fix, it’s easy to take it personally. But their journey is theirs to navigate. Our role as parents is to support them—not control them.

Final Thoughts

Supporting your teen through mental health challenges isn't about having all the answers. It’s about being present, being open, and learning alongside them. Jamie’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, advocacy, and unconditional love.

Want to hear more from Jamie? Check out her website at jamieedelbrock.com or follow her on Instagram @tangledupbook

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
   If you're in crisis or need support, call or text 988 for confidential help. Available 24/7.

• Psychology Today Therapy Directory: www.psychologytoday.com/
   Search for licensed mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists near you.
  
  
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org/
   NAMI provides a range of resources for mental health services and local support groups.
  
  

Jamie's Books:

• Tangled Up: A heartfelt exploration of mental health struggles and the path to healing, designed to inspire families to stay connected during difficult times.
  
  
• Be the Sparkle: A guide for parents, offering practical strategies to help children feel empowered and spark their own resilience.
  
  
• The Adventure of Little Selfie: A children’s book that encourages self-love and mindfulness in young readers.