This post is from Grown and Flown.
by Kiran Bhai | Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes
As a parent or family member, it’s natural to worry when your student's behavior changes, whether they’ve reported that they're sleeping more, seeing friends less, or not sticking to their regular routines. The good news is that most of the time, these types of changes in behavior do not cause concern. Still, there’s ample reason for families to be on the lookout for red flags.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an alarming number of adolescents report poor mental health. Nationally, one in six young people ages six to 17 experiences a mental health disorder; 50% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14. Untreated, adolescent mental health issues can lead to physical, emotional, and mental health consequences into adulthood.
Because early detection and intervention can help significantly, it’s essential for families to support young adults by learning about common mental health conditions, understanding the signs that their student might be experiencing a mental health issue, and familiarizing themselves with ways to begin a conversation with their young adult who might be struggling.
We assembled the information below to help families understand possible red flags and begin these meaningful conversations.
Click here to read about common mental health conditions and the warning signs.
What do I say?
Whatever the circumstance, it’s important to first validate your student’s experience, practice careful and genuine listening, show empathy, and normalize seeking help. Above all, ensure your young adult knows that you are there for them unconditionally. The phrases below may help start and follow up on a conversation.
- Some of what you’ve shared with me makes me concerned about how you’re doing. How do you feel? Is there any way I can support you?
- I’m concerned about how you’re doing because you’ve been sharing some difficult emotions and seem to be having a hard time. How are you doing today? Is there a way I can support you?
- I’ve been noticing some changes in your behavior lately. [Share your observation of the warning signs, i.e., “You’ve mentioned you've been sleeping a lot and haven’t seen your friends as much.”] How are things going for you lately? Is there a way I can support you?
What to say if your student tells you about an issue they are facing related to or impacting their mental health:
- Thank you so much for telling me about this. I know it’s not easy to talk about. Let’s work together to think through solutions and ways to support you.
- I’m so glad you shared this with me. It seems like you’re going through a hard time.
- I’m glad you brought this up. I am so sorry you are going through this. Let’s brainstorm what would be helpful. We will work together to find a solution.
How to follow up to learn more about your student’s mental health:
- How are you feeling today?
- How often do you feel [insert difficult emotions shared]?
- When did you start feeling this way?
- Have you talked to others about this?
- How do you cope, or feel better, when feeling this way?
- Have you tried to get help in any way?
- How can I help you?
- What would make you feel better today?
What do I do next?
Young adult mental health issues are common and treatable, and it’s critical to seek help for your student if they are struggling. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness website and the Jed Foundation’s Mental Health Resource Center are excellent places to start; your student's Primary Care Provider, or medical and mental health professionals on their campus may also be helpful.
Families play a crucial role in helping their students navigate challenges — including mental health challenges — and setting them on the path to health and well-being into adulthood.
