Guiding your child to the right resources

However, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between the discomfort of adolescence and a mental health problem that requires attention.

Therefore, parents must remain vigilant and observe their teenagers from a distance to support them as best they can. Several signs may indicate that a teenager is not doing well. Sometimes these signs are visible, other times less so. For information on how to tell the difference between what is normal in adolescence and what is not, consult our article “I'm worried about my teenager, what should I do?” Once you see that your concerns are valid, how can you guide your teen to the right resources?

Teenagers' resistance to help

First of all, we must remember that other people's perceptions matter a lot to teenagers who are still searching for themselves. They may have a tremendous fear of being judged by others and consequently, prefer to try to solve their problem alone.  However, many teens need help and resources as they develop. As parents, it is important to let your child know that that they are not alone.

3 strategies to adopt when encouraging your teen to ask for help

1. Maintain and adapt contact with your teenager

Despite your teen's need for freedom, keeping in close contact with your teen is essential to reinforce healthy relationships and reduce risky behaviors. Teens may be afraid of being judged when they confide in you. They are afraid of making a mistake that could get them into trouble or lead to rejection. It is important to keep an open mind, avoid quick judgments, and to build a trusting bond. 

2. Refer them to specialized organizations

Sometimes adolescents prefer to confide in someone outside their family, but they may not always know where to turn for help.  They might not know where to look, what to say, what to do, or how to ask for help. It is at these moments that the Here, parents can support by doing some research into what resources might be right for their needs. Afterward, your child can continue the process with you, so they feel more confident and involved.

Community organizations are there to offer tools, information, and support in your efforts to help your child. Their workers are qualified and most of the services are free. In many cases, the organization’s take an informal approach, which is perfectly suited to respond to teenage resistance and reticence.

Online, you can find sites that group together several organizations according to different categories of needs and services. For example, the astumonnumero.com site presents all the youth resources in Laval. You can search by different themes such as: mental health, school and volunteering, addictions, sexuality, and many others. 

3. Demystify the process and convey positive messages

It is important to let your teen know that asking for help is not a negative thing. On the contrary, it takes courage to ask for help. This mindset helps them gain self-confidence and find answers to their questions. Professional help is always offered without judgment and can help your young person discover new strengths and skills. These new discovers will help your teen face future challenges.  

Help them think for themselves without judgment

During adolescence, parents must accompany their children rather than do things for them. Their opinions are important and allow them to develop their reasoning skills. Even if the questions may seem far-fetched to you, help him, without judgment, to go to the end of his reasoning without trying to influence his speech. If he is afraid to ask for help, offer him a hand. He will feel confident and will then be better able to overcome his fears about asking for help.

References (in French)

 CAMH, Ce que les parents doivent savoir sur leurs adolescents : FAITS, MYTHES ET STRATÉGIES
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