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Talking to the Parents (about Therapy)

Writer's picture: Drishti JaisinghDrishti Jaisingh

Updated: Feb 13, 2023

Yes, prep for having THE conversation!


Talking about mental health is difficult. It goes up a notch when it's discussing it with your loved ones.


Explaining your mental health to your parents, when you do not understand it yourself can be a task.

For some of us, it can feel like burdening them with our issues when they have enough to deal with themselves. But is it worth struggling alone?

Here I have a few tips for you, of how to have THE conversation:


  1. Decide when is the right time for you. Is it when you can no longer manage your difficulties alone? Is it time to seek therapy, or are you just ready to share the load. It is extremely important to check-in with yourself and understand your reasons with sharing with your family; and your expectations from the process.

  2. Pick the right space to have the talk. A time and space when everyone is comfortable and relaxed. It would be a good idea to plan if you want to tell both your parents, or start with one. Inform just the parents and then the extended family. An ideal situation would be to create a safe space before you tell your parents. Pro-tip: it'll help to include your sibling, older cousin, close friend or anyone who is a close confidante for you. The person can help neutralise and de-escalate the situation and/or take care of you in case of a crisis.

  3. Explain how you're feeling and thinking, any and all details would help at this point. The more real you are, along with particular instances, more likely they are able to understand, correlate and comprehend the situation. If you have been going through it for a long time, give your parents some time to ask questions (even the most silly ones)

  4. Discuss people (fictional/real) ones who have benefitted from therapy, tell them more to normalise the idea of seeking help and having mental health/emotional issues.

  5. Involve them in the process Most parents are likely to be shocked/scared, and often do not know the best way to react. Pro-tip: Parents might blame themselves i.e. their inability to help you or having failed as parents, some might even blame you. This could stem out of being shocked or general disbelief. Allow them time to understand you.

Some of the most common questions you will receive are: How long have you been feeling this way? Why didn't you come to me earlier? Did I fail as a parent? Is Depression/Anxiety even real? Are you sure you are not overthinking this? You sure you are not reading too much into this? When will you start therapy? How much does it cost? How long does the process last? Will you share our family details with your therapist?



Please ensure you have done a ground-work of research before approaching the parents. While their reaction is important to your seeking professional help, it is much more important to focus on your emotional needs.

After all you tried and gave your best. Allow them some time and we can always try again. If you are considering mental health support

schedule a discovery call with me, write to me on drishtijaisingh2608@gmail.com


Until the next time :)


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