Peace at Home Blog

Protect Teens’ Mental Health: Depression & Anxiety

June 2025 | Louise Edwards

We expect some drama in the teen years. The eye rolls, the slammed doors, the grunts. But how do you know when it’s just teenage moodiness—and when it’s something more?

Mood Swings or Something More?

When does typical worry cross the line into trouble sleeping every night?
When does grief over a breakup slide into hopelessness or withdrawal?
When does “I need space,” become “I don’t care about anything anymore”?

These moments can be hard to spot and even harder to navigate. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Why This Matters Now

In October 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), and the Children’s Hospital Association declared a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health.

Even before COVID-19, the share of high school students reporting persistent sadness or hopelessness rose from 26% (2009) to 37% (2019), and suicidal behaviors increased 44% in the decade leading up to the pandemic.

Many young people are struggling quietly—masked by anger, withdrawal, or even perfectionism – and even the most attentive parents can miss the signs. For instance, parents need to be aware of subtle signs of bullying that is one of the main triggers of mental health issues among teens.

That’s why this workshop exists.

It’s not about panic—it’s about knowledge, tools and insight . It’s about knowing what to look for, how to respond without judgment, and when to lean in with more support.

You’ll learn things like…

• What’s “typical” teen behavior… and what isn’t
  
• How to tell the difference between typical worry or sadness and a potential mental health disorder
  
• What actually helps when your child is overwhelmed—and what may do more harm than good (even if it’s well-intentioned)
  
• Practical strategies that build resilience, encourage healthy coping, and create trust—without trying to “fix” your teen
  

If you’ve ever lain awake at night wondering Is this normal? Should I be worried? Am I doing enough?—this is for you.

You’re Not Alone. And Neither Is Your Teen.

You don’t need a psychology degree to support your child’s mental health. You just need the right tools, a listening heart, and a willingness to learn.

Join Peace at Home Founder, Ruth Freeman, LCSW and Viana Turcios-Cotto, Ph.D.  for an honest, practical workshop that could help you spot early signs, respond with clarity, and build a deeper connection with your teen—even when things get hard.

Because they need you. And you deserve support.

Watch the recording here Protect Teens Mental Health: Recognize and Cope With Depression and Anxiety

Looking for More Support?

• Search for what you need
• Explore our Resource Guides, with quick videos and other resources, for every age and stage
• Check our calendar of live events

Questions? Email us at solutions@peaceathomeparenting.com

And now for the shameless plug…
Don’t have a Peace at Home Parenting Portal? Let’s fix that. Ask your company, school, or favorite neighborhood group to join us. We’ve got Corporate, K-12 School, and Family Service programs that bring calm to the chaos—no yoga mat required. Click here to join as an individual or family.