Talking to your teen about self-harm can feel overwhelming and frightening for many parents. If you’re noticing changes in your teenager’s mood, behaviour, or emotional wellbeing, you may be unsure how to start the conversation without pushing them away. In this Calgary therapist guide, learn compassionate ways to approach your teen, what to say (and what not to say), and how to create a safe space for honest conversations about self-harm and mental health.

Parenting a teenager can feel like learning a new language overnight. The rules change, emotions get louder, and the connection you once had can feel harder to reach. When mental health struggles enter the picture—like anxiety, depression, trauma responses, or disordered eating—that difficulty can intensify. Many parents in Calgary tell me they feel unsure how to help, worried about saying the wrong thing, and exhausted by the emotional ups and downs at home. Here’s something