Shaun Harvey
Liz Lange
Talking With Teens About Tough Topics
Talking With Teens About Tough Topics
Talking With Teens About Tough Topics
Thursday 4th September 2025
Discover how to discuss difficult topics with teens calmly and effectively in this episode of 'Mental Health Matters'.
32 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Compassionate
Encouraging
Authentic
About this podcast
Author:
Shaun Harvey
Overview:
Categories:
Mindful Recovery
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Navigating Intimate Relationships
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Get the buttons here!Navigating Tough Talks with Teens
Episode Overview
- Normalise tough conversations by discussing difficult topics regularly.
- Use curiosity instead of judgement to build a safe space for expression.
- Choose the right time for discussions to avoid emotional shutdowns.
- Be patient and give yourself grace as you navigate parenting challenges.
- Seek professional help if your teen shows signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation.
Parenting is not about perfection; it's about progress and improving.
How do you talk to teens about those awkward, but crucial topics without causing a meltdown? That's the heart of this week's episode of 'Mental Health Matters'. Liz Lange, alongside guests Jeremiah and Selena Woodruff, tackles the challenge of normalising tough conversations with teenagers. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and this episode emphasises the importance of keeping calm and recognising signs of suicidal ideation.
Lange shares a personal anecdote about advocating for her daughter's school accommodation, illustrating the delicate balance between parental support and allowing kids to advocate for themselves. The episode is packed with practical advice on maintaining open lines of communication, even when the subjects are difficult. The hosts stress the value of frequent, casual chats with teens about big issues like drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure, making them less intimidating over time.
They encourage parents to get comfortable with discomfort, suggesting that practising these conversations with another adult can be beneficial. Timing is key, they advise, urging parents to pick moments when emotions aren't running high to discuss sensitive topics. The episode also highlights the importance of curiosity over judgement and listening over lecturing, fostering a safe environment for teens to express themselves.
You'll learn how a little patience and grace can go a long way in supporting your child through challenging times. So, what are the toughest topics you've had to broach with your teen? Reflect on your approach and consider how you might incorporate some of these strategies into your conversations.