Talking to Children and Youth About Mental Health

Talking to children and youth about mental health can feel daunting, and yet it’s one of the most meaningful ways to nurture connection and trust. These conversations help young people understand their emotions, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and remind them that they are never alone in what they are feeling.

You don’t need to have all the right words - showing up with openness, empathy, and care is what truly matters. Many mental health challenges begin in childhood or asolescense, so taking time to listen and talk early on can make a lasting difference. Simple check-ins, gentle curiosity, and active listening can help your child feel safe sharing what’s on their mind.

Seeking help with these conversations may be daunting, though there are many resources available to guide your learning, and execution. Counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists are all excellent tools for guidance. They can help you in recognizing signs to look for in your child, planning a conversation and even providing an outline for topics or questions to discuss with a child. Together, we can create a world where it is okay to talk about feelings, seek help, and support one another through life’s ups and downs.

To learn more about statistics, signs a child is struggling, and about the services available to help, read more in the brochure created by Jenna Worton: Talking To Children Guide