Therapist Insight with Jazmyne Bernard, LMFT | APCC: What Parents Often Miss About Teen Mental Health
Parents know their children better than anyone, but it can be difficult to tell when normal teenage changes become something more.
We spoke with Jazmyne Bernard, LMFT | APCC, about the concerns she commonly sees in children, teens, and families and how parents can recognize when extra support may be needed.
What Concerns Are You Seeing Most Often?
Jazmyne shares that many families seek counseling because of social isolation, school-related stress, family transitions, communication difficulties, and challenges managing emotions.
She also sees children and teens experiencing increased anxiety, anger, emotional outbursts, and, in some cases, substance use.
What Signs Should Parents Pay Attention To?
Parents should pay attention to noticeable changes in behavior or mood.
Warning signs include:
Withdrawing from family or friends
Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
Excessive worry
Changes in sleep
Difficulty concentrating
Declining school performance
Low self-esteem
While some stress is a normal part of growing up, persistent changes that interfere with daily life may signal a more serious concern.
When Is It More Than "Just Being a Teen"?
Jazmyne also emphasizes that children are never too young to be affected by difficult experiences.
Emotional struggles should not be dismissed as simply being part of adolescence. If school stress leads to avoidance, emotional outbursts, hopelessness, or withdrawal, it may be time to seek additional support.
Not every change in mood or behavior means a child needs therapy. But noticing patterns and staying curious about what may be underneath them can help parents recognize when additional support could be helpful.
How Can Parents Create Safer Conversations?
Creating safe conversations starts with making time to connect.
Listening without judgment, showing empathy, and spending one-on-one time together can help children and teens feel comfortable sharing what they're experiencing.
Open communication helps build trust and reminds them they don't have to face life's challenges alone.
A Reminder for Parents
It can be difficult to know when to step in, especially when you're trying to respect your child's independence while also making sure they're okay.
Jazmyne's perspective is a reminder that paying attention matters. Creating space for honest conversations can help parents better understand what their children are experiencing—and recognize when additional support may be needed.
If you're concerned about changes in your child's or teen's mood, behavior, or emotional well-being, counseling can provide a supportive place to begin. Learn more about child and teen counseling at Restoration Counseling Services.