Mental Fitness in Teens (12-18 Years)
In their teen years, your child makes more of their own choices about friendships, school, and other activities. As teens continue to develop their unique personality, they become more independent, with their own interests, opinions, and relationships.
Helping teens feel connected to family, friends, and school helps them develop a clearer sense of who they are as a person. Having a sense of identity can help teens become more confident when presented with difficult situations, such as peer pressure. It's important that parents understand that teens can and will often be presented with difficult decisions. It's part of being a teenager, and it's part of learning how to parent a teenager. Be sure to make time to support, encourage, and engage with your teen as they’re developing a clearer sense of who they are. This will help build their mental fitness so that they can confidently navigate anything that comes their way.
Preteens and young teens (12–14 years)
As puberty begins, rapid physical changes combined with concerns about appearance and the importance of friendships can affect your teen’s emotional well-being. Knowing that they can talk to you about their worries and problems can make all the difference.
- Show an interest in your teen’s school and other activities. Get to know your teen’s friends and their families.
- Respect and encourage your teen’s opinions. Actively listen to them without letting your thoughts and judgment guide the conversation.
- Be clear about goals and expectations, such as getting good grades, but focus on efforts and values — not outcomes. Teach them to keep things clean, and show respect. Let your teen provide input on how to reach those goals, such as when and how to study or clean.
Older teenagers (15–18 years)
The later teen years bring more growth opportunities as your teen takes a part-time job or prepares for college. Continue to show that you’re always there to love and support your teen as they become a healthy, independent adult.
- Help your teen make healthy choices. Talk with them about the importance of making friends who are interested in positive activities. Encourage them to avoid anyone who pressures them to make unhealthy choices.
- Be honest and direct with your teen when talking about sensitive subjects such as alcohol, drugs, smoking, and sex. They will feel respected.
- Talk with your teen about their concerns, and pay attention to any behavior changes. If they seem depressed, ask if they have had suicidal thoughts. Asking about those thoughts will not cause your teen to have them, but it will let them know you care how they feel. Seek professional help if necessary.
