When should parents seek professional help for a teenager?
Signs it is time
- Low mood, irritability or worry that lasts more than two weeks.
- Withdrawing from friends, family or activities they enjoyed.
- Big changes in sleep, eating or weight.
- Refusing or struggling to go to school.
- Self-harm, or talk of hopelessness, death or not wanting to be here.
- Using alcohol or drugs to cope.
Who to contact first
- Your family doctor or paediatrician, who can assess and refer.
- The school counsellor or pastoral team, who may already have noticed changes.
- In an emergency, emergency services.
Talking to your teenager about getting help
Say what you've noticed and why you care, without blame. Present help as normal and practical, like seeing a doctor for a physical problem. Involve them in choices where you can, and keep reassuring them that asking for help is a strength.
Trust yourself
You don't need to be certain before asking for advice. If something feels wrong, it is reasonable to check.
For parents
NOTICE parent workshop
Two live 2-hour online sessions (4 hours total, €79.00 EUR) that help parents recognise early signs and practise the conversations that keep teenagers talking.
Book the NOTICE workshop