Many parents have experienced something like this when they ask a teen about mental health. You ask, “How are you doing?” and you get an automatic response, like “I’m fine,” "I'm doing ok," or "Good." If you’re worried about your teen’s mental health, that shutdown can feel discouraging. However, unlike TV shows, meaningful conversations rarely
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Mood changes are a normal part of growing up. Hormones, social pressure, academic stress, and identity development can all affect how teens and pre-teens feel and behave. For parents, it can be difficult to know when emotional ups and downs are expected and when they may signal something more serious. Understanding the difference between a temporary
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Teen loneliness continues to impact thousands of children. If your teenager has ever expressed that they don't feel like they fit in anywhere, or spends hours alone in their room scrolling but insists they’re “fine,” you’re not imagining things. This is a lonely time to grow up. The World Health Organization’s new Commission on Social Connection
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Nearly losing a teen to a suicide attempt is one of the most difficult experiences a parent can go through. The intense emotions you feel in the days that follow, such as feeling guilty for missing the signs, fearing what might happen in the future, or even blaming yourself, are completely normal. A suicide attempt
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A Call to Parents: Don’t Wait to Seek Therapy for A Teenager When it comes to mental health treatment for teens or pre-teens, it’s fair to say that most parents hope it’s something their child never needs. But a recent report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shows many adolescents need mental
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Every parent wants to believe their child is safe, happy, and hopeful about the future. But the reality can be sobering. Tennessee is facing a potential youth mental health crisis, and suicide is now one of the leading causes of death among children and teens in the Volunteer State. The 2024 State of the Child in
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For many parents dealing with school avoidance, mornings can turn into daily battles. Your teen or preteen complains of stomachaches, headaches, or overwhelming anxiety about going to school. While occasional reluctance is normal, persistent refusal to attend school may be a sign of “school avoidance” (also called school refusal). Mental health issues such as anxiety
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Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among adolescents, but parents can play a powerful role in protecting their child’s mental health and lowering a young person's risk of suicide. By learning the warning signs, creating space for open conversations, and modeling healthy emotional habits, you can support your teen or tween through
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For many teens, the journey toward better mental health can feel isolating, especially when they believe they’re facing their struggles alone. At Embrace U, we know that healing happens not just through professional guidance, but also through connection. That’s why our group therapy programs for adolescents places a strong emphasis on connection, communication, coping skills,
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Summer is more than just a break from school—it's a valuable opportunity to reset, recharge, and refocus on what matters most: your teen’s mental health. If your child has been struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional challenges, Embrace U’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) can provide the structured support and tools they need to thrive. Starting mental
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As summer winds down, many teens begin to feel the weight of the upcoming school year. For some, this shift triggers feelings of anxiety, sadness, or dread—often referred to as the “back-to-school blues.” While this transition can be challenging, it also presents an important opportunity: summer is the perfect time to address mental health concerns
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Adolescence is a time of growth, discovery, and often, emotional challenges. For teens struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, support from family can play a critical role in their healing journey. At Embrace U, we believe that effective treatment doesn’t just involve the teen—it involves the whole family. That’s why our Summer
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