From a Washington parent
A year ago my youngest teen had some serious mental health challenges. They had become severely depressed, evasive about communicating the causes with either parent. We were aware they were struggling, but it was hard to connect with them about what was happening.
Their school has a therapist with an office in the school building. They had already independently sought out help there, after filling out mental health questionnaires at school with responses that were flagged for follow-up by a teacher.
At the worst of their issues, there was self-harm and suicidal ideation which was incredibly stressful. When the seriousness of the situation because fully apparent to us, they had already talked to their counselor about it. The counselor encouraged our kid to have an honest discussion with us and contacted us directly to discuss some routes forward. There was still a lot to do to get them the help they needed—insurance, intake interviews, a finding the right program fit—but the services linked to the school were key in getting the right care quickly.
They attended an intensive outpatient program that included weekly parent education and support. Through the careful help of the program, their outlook on life turned around. They’re able to communicate effectively with their parents when they feel less great and have some tools and resilience to weather the struggles.
