UVA experts offer tips for talking to teens about mental health

Sometimes it can be difficult to talk to teens about mental health or even know when to talk about it. The University of Virginia Adolescent and Young Adult Health Center gave us advice on what signs to watch for.

A gentle approach is often best when discussing mental health with teens, because being asked a ton of questions at once can be overwhelming or intimidating, according to the center’s advocacy, education and awareness manager. .

“The patterns we often see deviate from their normal, i.e. spending more time alone in their room, spending time away from friends, changing their appetite, eating more, eating less, spending less time with their loved ones,” said Dr. Susan Gray, medical director of the UVA Adolescent and Young Adult Health Center. “So these are all reasons why people who care about young people should seek professional help.” »

Dr. Gray also emphasized the importance of teens having a trusted adult other than their parents who they can go to for advice, such as a coach, teacher or mentor.