Adolescence is a time of immense change. As teens navigate the complexities of emotional, social, and cognitive development, they face a variety of challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. The earlier the trauma or mental health challenges occur, the more profound and lasting the effects on the developing brain. However, parents are in a unique position to play a pivotal role in their child’s mental health journey, guiding them toward better emotional well-being and resilience.
The Importance of Prompt Intervention
Early intervention in childhood and adolescent mental health is one of the most powerful tools available to prevent long-term issues. Research has shown that timely support and access to mental health care can significantly improve long-term well-being and reduce the risk of future mental health challenges. When mental health issues are addressed early, young people are more likely to experience positive life outcomes, such as improved academic success and better social functioning.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 1 in 5 adolescents aged 13-18 experiences a severe mental health disorder each year. Early intervention can help mitigate these issues before they become more difficult to reverse, helping adolescents cope with challenges in healthier ways. Research also supports this, showing that adolescents who receive early mental health care are better equipped to handle life’s stressors and lead fulfilling, successful lives.
Understanding Adolescent Mental Health
Adolescence is marked by rapid physical, emotional, and cognitive growth, and it’s during this period that many mental health disorders begin to emerge. Issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and substance use are common, but this doesn’t mean they are normal or ignorable. Studies indicate that approximately 1 in 3 adolescents reported a mental health issue in the past year, highlighting the growing prevalence of mental health struggles in this age group.
“Adolescence is a time when the brain undergoes significant development,” shared Carla Weismantel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Geode Health in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “The way a young person processes emotions and builds coping skills can deeply influence their future mental health. Trauma or adversity at this age can shape how a child responds to stress throughout adulthood.”
Understanding the impact of trauma is essential. Even seemingly small events, like a falling out with friends or struggles in school, can have profound effects. These challenges, when unresolved, can have a lasting impact on the adolescent’s emotional and mental health.
The Role of Parents in Supporting Mental Health
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s mental health, both in recognizing signs of distress and in providing support. The first step is recognizing potential mental health challenges.
Recognizing the Signs
Mood swings, withdrawal from friends or family, academic decline, and changes in social behaviors can all be signs that something isn’t quite right. However, these signs are often misunderstood as typical adolescent behavior, making it harder for parents to identify when their child may be struggling.
“Many parents struggle with recognizing the signs of mental health challenges,” adds Carla. “Understanding these early warning signs can be key to getting their child the right help.”
The Power of Communication
Open and nonjudgmental conversations about mental health are essential. Encouraging your child to share their thoughts and feelings can be as simple as having a weekly mental health check-in. These check-ins don’t have to be formal—make them fun and creative. The goal is to show your child that this space allows them to feel heard and understood. Patience and active listening are crucial when talking to teens about their emotions. Being supportive and allowing them to express themselves without fear of judgment will benefit continued open communication.
Empowering Parents: Utilizing Available Resources
Access to professional mental health care is one of the most important resources a parent can provide. For many parents, finding help can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
Access to Professional Help
Mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants and nurse practitioners, as well as therapists, can guide families through the process of understanding and addressing mental health challenges. While many mental healthcare organizations have long waitlists, especially for child and adolescent care, Geode is proud to offer same-week appointments, making accessibility not only possible, but a top priority.
Carla emphasizes that “Mental health care doesn’t have to be complicated. Finding the right provider who is experienced with adolescents is the first step. At Geode Health, we ensure that families can access these resources in a seamless, straightforward way.”
Affordability
Cost should never be a barrier to mental health care. Geode Health prioritizes affordable care, offering sliding scales, insurance acceptance, and payment plans to ensure families get the help they need without financial strain. A study from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 60% of young people who need mental health care don’t receive it due to cost barriers.
Effective Care
Evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication management, are proven to be effective for adolescents. These therapies help young people develop better coping strategies, process their emotions, and manage their mental health more effectively.
“Here at Geode, we combine evidence-based treatments with a compassionate approach to ensure that young people not only get better but feel supported every step of the way.”
Encouraging Timely and Proactive Intervention
The benefits of early intervention are clear. Research shows that young people who receive mental health care early are 70% more likely to complete high school and pursue higher education. Addressing mental health challenges before they become entrenched can help teens thrive both academically and socially.
“Timely intervention is like planting a seed that grows into a stronger mental health foundation,” says Carla. “The earlier we address challenges, the more likely a teen will thrive emotionally and academically.”
Parents should also be aware that not all trauma or negative experiences are obvious. Even quiet, subtle events, like difficult interactions at school, can have a lasting emotional impact if not addressed. Pay attention to your child’s emotional state and behavior, even when the events seem minor.
Overcoming Common Challenges in Seeking Help
Despite the growing recognition of mental health as a crucial aspect of overall well-being, stigma around mental health care still exists, especially for adolescents. Many parents feel uncertain about seeking help for their children.
“As a parent, it’s natural to feel uncertain about reaching out for help. But seeking care shows your child you’re proactive and deeply invested in their well-being.”
By finding a mental health provider who feels comfortable and supportive, parents can overcome these fears and ensure their child receives the care they need.
How Geode Health Supports Parents and Teens
Geode Health is committed to making mental health care accessible, affordable, and effective for adolescents and their families. We prioritize accessibility by ensuring no long waitlists, affordability through a large insurance network, and effective care through evidence-based and measured treatments.
Parents are an essential part of the treatment process. While patient privacy is important, we are happy to involve parents when appropriate and with the child’s consent.
“Our approach is to make mental health care as approachable and empowering as possible for parents and teens,” says Carla. “We want parents to feel confident in guiding their children through their mental health journey.”
The Impact of Parental Involvement
Parents have the power to significantly impact their child’s mental health. Being proactive, informed, and involved can help ensure their adolescent feels supported, understood, and empowered. Taking the first step toward mental health care is not something a parent will regret, and they need not feel alone in this journey.
Carla emphasizes, “When parents take an active role in their child’s mental health, they set the foundation for a future where their teen feels supported, heard, and empowered to thrive.”
Together, parents and providers can help guide adolescents toward better emotional well-being, stronger resilience, and a brighter future.
Resources
Learn more or find a provider at geodehealth.com
Carla’s Book Recommendation: What Happened to You? by Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey
