Talking about mental health can be extremely difficult, especially when facing cultural differences, as well as social stigma surrounding mental health. There are many factors that can make it difficult to talk to your parents about wanting to go to therapy. Do you fear that being able to talk to your parents about therapy may lead to them reacting in a negative way?
Even though this may happen, you must understand that taking the steps to talk to your parents about therapy is very brave. It can be hard at a young age to ask for the help that you may need and deserve. Is your mental health affecting you daily with emotions, problems in school, or within relationships? This can be a big sign that it is time to speak to your parents about therapy.
Signs that you should seek therapy as a teen:
- You have a hard time concentrating
- You struggle with your emotions
- You feel sad or even hopeless
- You are experiencing panic attacks
- You are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself
- You are struggling with relationships
- You are experiencing an eating problem/disorder
- & Much more
Steps to take to talk to your parents about going to therapy:
- Introduce therapy into conversations
Share how you find an article about therapy interesting. Ask your parents what they think and how they feel about therapy. Be prepared that their reaction may not be what you expect or want. Remember, for most people, their parents grew up in a generation that did not favor expression of thoughts and feelings, so your parents may have experienced generational trauma although they may be unaware of it.
- Practice what you want to say to your parents
Write down what it is that you want to discuss with your parents. Practice the conversation out loud or seek help from someone that you trust to practice conversations with.
- Understand why you are wanting to go to therapy
Do your research on therapy. Ask yourself why it may be helpful or what you plan to get out of therapy. This will help you when your parents ask you questions about why you want to go to therapy. Seek out therapists who you believe may be a good fit for you, just like any other aspect of your life, leaving this up to your parents may not always present as an ideal fit to what you are actually looking for.
- Plan the conversation ahead of time
Have your key points written down. Plan a time where you will be around your parents where it is distraction free. Picking a time when they are not busy with other things and are stressed is crucial.
- Pick how you want to communicate with them
If you feel apprehensive about talking face-to-face, then texting or talking over the phone may be a better option. If they may be less distracted face-to-face and more willing to listen, then maybe that would be best. Understand the communication that is right for you.
- Be willing to be open about your feelings
This is easier said than done, but if you are 100% open and honest it will be easier for them to see your point of view. This can also show them how important it is to you and how your mental health is truly being affected.
- Involve your parents in the decision to go to therapy
Their response may not be what you want, but if you include them in the process, they may be more likely to help with what is best for you. Again, you may be the first person in their life to be educating them on therapy. Remember, your parents are human beings as well, and you may not be aware of the struggles they are going through, so come to it with an open mind but advocate for yourself, as some may be attempt to transfer their fears and concerns on to you.
- Know that if they still say no, there are options for help
Be aware of the laws for minors in your state. If you are struggling, you can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Give them time but know that you can reach out to a school counselor or primary doctor for help as well.
Taking your mental health seriously at a young age can help you tremendously throughout life. It can be scary to talk to your parents about wanting to go to therapy but know that opening up about your feelings towards therapy is very brave. If you are struggling with your mental health, start by slowly mentioning therapy in conversations. Know that you are not alone, many teens struggle with their mental health daily.
A school counselor or primary care physician are great sources to go to when struggling to talk to your parents about therapy. Sometimes our parents may not agree, but it you do your research and fully understand why you are seeking counseling and know what you are wanting to gain from it, then they may be more willing to see your point of view.
If your parent agrees to helping you go to therapy, reach out to a therapist that is trained in working with teens and adolescents to help you better address your mental health. If you are in crisis and struggling, text or call the National Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
