Raising Emotionally Healthy Kids in Utah: How to Talk to Them About Mental Health

Utah is a beautiful place to raise a family, but just like everywhere, our kids face stress, pressure, and emotional challenges. Between school expectations, social media, and sometimes high cultural or religious standards, kids need safe spaces to talk about their feelings. The good news? You don’t have to be a therapist to have meaningful, healthy conversations about mental health with your kids.

Why This Matters in Utah

Despite many positive aspects, Utah has some of the highest rates of youth anxiety, depression, and suicide in the nation. It also has an incredible culture of family connection, charity, and community. Talking to our kids early and in a way that uses our strengths but acknowledges our challenges can make a big impact in how they deal with emotions. It teaches them that emotions are normal, struggling doesn’t mean they’re weak, and asking for help is healthy.

Tips for Talking to Kids — At Every Age

Ages 3-7: Teach Feeling Words

Use simple language. "You look mad, do you want to tell me what’s bothering you?" Use books or shows to talk about characters' feelings or pause in a moment when a character is feeling emotions and ask them, “What do you think they are feeling”? Help them name and get familiar with common emotions. Some examples include happy, sad, mad, scared, frustrated, and calm.

Ages 8-12: Normalize Mental Health Conversations

Kids this age notice everything, including adult stress. Try saying, "Sometimes I talk to a counselor when I feel overwhelmed. Everyone needs help sometimes." Or, “Who do you feel comfortable with if you need to share emotions?” Encourage them to notice what helps them feel better. They may need some prompting. Some popular ones include reading, playing, moving their body, or talking to someone safe.

Teenagers: Be Curious, Not Controlling

Teens need safe adults who listen without jumping to judgment or advice. As a parent who is used to giving advice to your kids, this can be a challenge. Instead of saying "You’re being dramatic." Try, "Sounds like you’ve been carrying a lot. Want to tell me more?" Instead of saying “Why don’t you just do this?” Try, “What are you going to do? I’m willing to help if you would like?” Talk openly about therapy as a resource, not a punishment.

Mistakes to Avoid

These are things that are tempting, common, and probably things that parents experienced as kids, but they are very important to avoid. Don’t minimize their feelings ("It’s not that bad.") Don’t shame them ("You just need to be more grateful.") Don’t force them to talk before they’re ready. Instead focus on keeping the door open.

Utah-Specific Resources for Parents

• Strong Start Utah: Parenting tools and classes

• Hope4Utah: Suicide prevention and school resources

• Utah Parent Center: Support for parents of kids with special needs

• Amber Creek Counseling and other local therapists who specialize in kids & teens

Final Thought

You don’t have to be perfect, just present. Creating a home where feelings are safe will give your kids emotional tools that last a lifetime. Start small. Stay curious. And remember, asking for help is one of the bravest lessons we can teach.