252: ENCORE: Should I Talk with My Teens About My Own Mental Health Challenges?

Perhaps you’ve struggled with anxiety, depression, or stress… and your teen is now old enough to notice. But how much should you share? Parents want to be honest, yet may not want to needlessly burden their kids. Getting that balance right is tricky, and deeply important.

In this encore episode of “Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens and Teens,” psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and journalist Reena Ninan explore how age-appropriate conversations about mental health can strengthen trust and deepen connection. They discuss if, when, and how to talk about your own challenges, how to keep the focus on your teen’s emotional needs, and ways to protect your own well-being in the process.

Originally released in 2023, this episode remains essential listening for families navigating a world where conversations about mental health are now a common part of family life.

💡 YOU’LL LEARN:

- When honesty helps, and when to hold back- How to talk about mental health in calm, age-appropriate ways- Why sharing your story can model resilience and help-seeking- Strategies for balancing transparency with emotional boundaries

Sharing your story, when done thoughtfully, can help your teen learn how to care for their own mind and heart.

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Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/

Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com

Episode keywords: talking mental health teens, parent anxiety, honest parenting, teen emotions

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