What to Do When You Think Something's Wrong
As a parent, you know when something feels off—and research shows you're right to pay attention to these changes in your teen. According to recent studies, one in five teens aged 12-17 have had a major depressive episode within the past last year, and many turn to risky substance use to cope with emotional pain or stress. These days, with fake prescription pills made with deadly fentanyl now being sold on social media, on campuses and on the streets, the stakes of “experimentation” have never been higher.
But connection, community, fact-based information and early intervention can help your teen’s mental wellness and delay or avoid substance experimentation and misuse. Here’s what to watch for, how to approach your teen, and how to get outside help. Remember: You’re not alone in this—and the sooner you act, the better the chance of keeping your teen safe.
RECOGNIZE THAT ANY KID CAN BE AT RISK
Some teens face additional challenges that can make them more vulnerable to mental health struggles. Those with ADHD, anxiety, or depression may need extra support developing healthy ways to cope with stress. And even teens who seem to be thriving—like high-achieving students and standout athletes—can be struggling beneath the surface. The pressure to maintain perfect grades or peak athletic performance often leads to hidden anxiety and stress.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Changes in Daily Habits:
Sleep disruption (up all night or sleeping excessively)
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Changes in eating patterns
Physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches
Social Changes:
Old friends disappearing
New friends you never meet
Avoiding family time
Withdrawing from activities
Academic or Performance Changes:
Dropping grades
Missing assignments
Skipping practices
Extreme anxiety about tests or games
Mood Changes:
More than usual teen moodiness
Snapping over small things
Seeming sad, hopeless, or withdrawn
Unusual irritability or anger
CREATE PROTECTION THROUGH CONNECTION
Building a strong, trusting relationship with your teen can be one of the most powerful ways to foster mental wellness and delay early substance use. When teens feel safe, valued, and heard at home, they are more likely to open up about challenges and less likely to seek validation or coping mechanisms through risky behaviors. Here’s how you can create a judgment-free environment and be a bridge to mental health and wellness:
Make time for regular, relaxed conversations and create a safe and judgement-free space
Notice and validate their feelings without jumping to fix things
Share family meals when possible
Stay involved in their activities without adding pressure
Model healthy ways to handle stress
Maintain clear family rules and expectations
Help them build other adult connections (coaches, counselors, relatives)
START WITH A CONVERSATION
Teens often open up more during everyday moments than in formal sit-down talks. Find natural opportunities when you're doing something else together—driving, walking, cooking.
Try:
"Things seem different lately—want to talk about what's going on?"
"I've noticed you seem stressed. What's feeling hard right now?"
"I'm here to listen, not to lecture or judge."
Then really listen. Let them share without interruption. Focus on understanding rather than solving.
TRY OUR EXPERT-CREATED RESOURCES
CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Understanding Teens:
Resources for Teens:
Free teen-to-teen crisis support and help line. Call 877-968-8491, text teen2teen to 839863, email
Substance Use Help
GET HELP
You don't have to handle this alone. If you notice warning signs persisting for more than two weeks—especially changes in sleep, mood, or social withdrawal—it's time to reach out. Start with resources already in your teen's life:
School counselors
Trusted coaches or activity leaders
Church or community group leaders
Family doctors
Consider talking with a mental health professional who specializes in teens if the changes continue or your teen:
Talks about feeling hopeless
Shows signs of self-harm
Mentions thoughts of suicide
Shows signs of substance use
Your doctor or school counselor can recommend someone who works specifically with teens. Getting help early builds resilience and can prevent teens from turning to substances to cope with stress.
CRISIS SUPPORT
Need to talk to someone right now? Call or text 988 anytime for 24/7 crisis support.
