Supporting Teens through the School Year: A Guide for Parents

With the school year well underway, many parents are wondering how to help their teen navigate the challenges that come with it—whether it’s academic pressures, social dynamics, or managing mental health. Supporting teens through the school year is about more than academics — it’s about understanding their emotional needs while also taking care of yourself as a parent.

As a parent, you want to be there for your teen, but it can be tricky to know when they’re just having a tough day and need space or when something more serious is going on. In this post, we’ll explore how to help your teen manage the school year, how to spot signs of potential mental health concerns, and ways to keep communication open without it feeling overwhelming for either of you.

Is It Mental Health Concerns or Just a Bad Day?

Teens experience emotional ups and downs just like any of us. Mood swings and bad days are completely normal, but as a parent, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs that might indicate something more concerning is going on.

• Sleep Changes: Too much or too little sleep can sometimes signal distress.
• Withdrawal: If your teen suddenly loses interest in activities they used to love, it’s worth paying attention.
• Mood Swings: Persistent irritability or sadness that is abnormal for your teen may indicate a potential stressor.
• Drop in Grades: A sudden academic decline can be a red flag.
• Physical Complaints: Frequent headaches or stomach aches could be linked to stress.

If you notice any combination of these signs it might be worth reaching out for additional support—whether that’s through a mental health professional or your family doctor. Sometimes reaching out can be an opportunity to get ahead of potential difficulties and get a different perspective.

Connecting with Your Teen through Open-Ended Questions

One of the trickiest parts of parenting teens is getting them to open up and share what’s really going on in their world. You want to know how they’re feeling, but when questions start to feel like an interrogation, your teen may shut down. Instead of asking direct questions like, “How was school today?” or “Did you do your homework?”, try asking open-ended questions that encourage more meaningful conversation.

Here are some alternatives:

• Instead of “How was your day?”, try: “What’s something that stood out to you today?”
• Instead of “Did you do your homework?”, try: “What’s something you’re working on in school that you’re finding interesting?”
• Instead of “Are you okay?”, try: “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little off lately. Want to talk about what’s been going on?”

Open-ended questions allow your teen to share more about what’s on their mind without feeling like they’re being put on the spot. It also gives them the freedom to express themselves in a way that feels comfortable.

Do Something Enjoyable with Them

Teens often feel more comfortable opening up when they don’t feel like the center of attention. Instead of sitting them down for a serious talk, try doing an activity together where the conversation can unfold naturally.

Some ideas include:

• Going for a walk together
• Cooking a meal or baking together
• Playing a game or working on a puzzle
• Driving somewhere together (sometimes, being side-by-side in the car can make conversations flow more easily)

By focusing on something other than just talking, your teen may feel more at ease and open up without feeling pressured.

Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself

Supporting a teen through the school year can be emotionally draining, especially if you’re worried about their mental health. Focusing on your own self-care not only helps you show up for your teen, it can also set a positive example for them to prioritize their own well-being and manage stress in healthy ways.

Here are a few self-care tips for parents:

• Set boundaries: Remember, it’s okay to take time for yourself. Whether it’s a walk, a bath, or simply 15 minutes of quiet time, find moments where you can recharge.
• Ask for help: Whether from a partner, friend, or family member, don’t be afraid to lean on your support system when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
• Talk to someone: Parenting can be hard, and sometimes it helps to talk things through with a therapist or counselor who can offer an outside perspective.
• Be kind to yourself: There’s no such thing as a perfect parent. It’s okay to make mistakes and not have all the answers. The important thing is that you’re showing up and doing your best.

Supporting your teen through the school year can be challenging, but with open communication, patience, and self-care, you can guide them while also looking after yourself. Watch for signs of mental health struggles, ask thoughtful questions, and use shared activities to encourage natural conversations. And don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being along the way.

If you find that you or your teen could use additional support, we’re here to help. At Crosstown Psychology, we specialize in therapy for teens and adults, offering personalized care to navigate the challenges of the school year and beyond. Don’t hesitate to reach out—contact our psychology clinic today and take the first step toward better mental health and well-being for both you and your teen.