It’s not uncommon for teens to struggle with mild emotional and mental health conditions. After all, this is a time of intense hormonal fluctuations and the struggle for identity. But while mild self-esteem issues and moodiness are to be expected, what’s not normal and requires intervention are prolonged periods of sadness, anxiety, anger, and extreme mood swings.

What’s really worrying is that an increasing number of teens face serious mental health challenges today. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, with depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders among the leading causes of illness and disability in this age group.

These numbers are sobering and they make it clear that mental health struggles aren’t rare. However, addressing them early can make a big difference.

For many teens, therapy and lifestyle changes, as well as family support are enough to help them manage. But sometimes, symptoms can persist or become so disruptive that medication becomes part of the conversation. If that’s where you are now, figuring out how to bring it up with your teen can feel tricky, especially if they tend to keep things private. The good news is, with the right approach, you can make this discussion open, honest, and constructive.

When Is Medication Necessary?

Determining when to incorporate medication into a teen’s mental health treatment plan can be tricky, which is why both you and your child should think about it carefully.

But it’s safe to say that since conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can all significantly impact a teenager’s daily life, affecting their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being, they often do require medication. This is especially true if the symptoms are severe, persistent, or not responding to therapy alone.

For example, medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety, while mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medications, such as aripiprazole (commonly known by the brand name Abilify), are used to manage bipolar disorder and other mood-related conditions.

Whatever emotional or mental conditions your teen struggles with, it’s essential to consult with a qualified mental health professional to assess the severity of the condition and discuss potential treatment options.

Why Your Teen Should Be Involved in Treatment Decisions

Teenagers are at a developmental stage where autonomy and self-identity are crucial, which is why you want to include them in treatment decisions: it’s a good way to give them a sense of control of the situation.

Besides, when teens feel their opinions are valued, they are more likely to adhere to treatment plans as well as talk about their health. The latter is especially important if you want to remain involved in your child’s life and develop a healthy relationship with them, one that allows for open and honest conversation about how they feel and what they think.

How to Discuss Medication with Your Child

Initiating a conversation about medication can be challenging, especially with teens who are introverted or reluctant to discuss personal matters. However, with the strategies below, you can have a constructive dialogue with your child.

  • Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, private setting free from distractions to ensure your teen feels comfortable.
  • Express Empathy and Understanding: Acknowledge their feelings and concerns. For example, you might say, “I understand that talking about this might be uncomfortable, but your well-being is important to me.”
  • Provide Clear Information: Share factual information about their condition and how medication can help. Avoid medical jargon to ensure they understand.
  • Encourage Questions: Allow your teen to ask questions and express concerns. Address misconceptions and provide honest answers.
  • Discuss Potential Benefits and Side Effects: Be transparent about what to expect from the medication, including possible side effects. This prepares them and builds trust.
  • Reinforce Their Autonomy: Emphasize that they are an active participant in their treatment plan. This reinforces their sense of control and responsibility.

Addressing Stigma and Concerns

It’s normal for teens to have concerns about taking medication for mental health. Some may worry about side effects, while others may fear it will change their personality or make them dependent. So how do you approach this?

A good starting point is to clarify that psychiatric medication won’t change who they are – it will just help them function better and feel more in control.

Likewise, different medications have different purposes. SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) are commonly used for depression and anxiety. For bipolar disorder or severe mood instability, doctors may recommend mood stabilizers or atypical antipsychotics. If your teen’s provider has mentioned aripiprazole, for example, reviewing an Abilify medication overview together can help them understand how it works, what to expect, and any potential side effects.

It’s also important to give your child space to voice their concerns (and discuss them with their doctor) and this can make them feel more in control of their treatment.

To reduce any stigma around treatment, try the following strategies:

  • Normalize Mental Health Treatment: Explain that mental health conditions are common and that seeking treatment is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  • Share Success Stories: If appropriate, share stories of individuals who have benefited from medication, illustrating positive outcomes.
  • Highlight Confidentiality: Assure your teen that their treatment is private and that they have control over who is informed.

Monitoring and Supporting Medication Management

Once a decision to start medication is made, ongoing support is important. Here’s how you can support your teen on their way to better mental health:

  • Establish a Routine: Help your teen incorporate meditation into their daily routine to promote consistency.
  • Monitor Side Effects: Regularly check in about how they’re feeling and address any side effects promptly with their healthcare provider.
  • Encourage Open Communication: Maintain an open line of communication, ensuring they feel comfortable discussing their treatment experience.

Finally, make sure to keep the channel open with their healthcare provider. Attend appointments together when possible and encourage your teen to voice their thoughts during consultations.