10/09/2026
It might be worth asking your teen a really simple question: if something was bothering you and you didn’t want to deal with it on your own, who could you talk to?
Perhaps ask them to name three people.
Young people can feel incredibly alone with the things they’re going through. They might assume everyone else is coping. They might feel embarrassed, worry they’re making too much of something or simply have no idea how to start the conversation.
Knowing beforehand who they could turn to can make that first step a little easier.
Their three people might include you, another family member, a teacher, a friend, a coach or another trusted adult. And it’s okay if you’re not number one on the list. What matters is that there is a list.
Coaching can be a really useful part of that support network too. It gives a young person a neutral, confidential space where they can talk things through without worrying about upsetting someone, being judged or being told what they should do. They have room to explore what’s going on for them and work out what they need next.
If you’re wondering whether coaching could offer that kind of space for your teen, I offer a free discovery call for young people aged 12–18 and their parent or carer.