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Raising Resilient Teens: A Parent’s Guide to Mental Wellness

Did you know that 1 in 10 teens in Singapore struggles with a mental health condition? A nationwide NUS study of over 3,300 adolescents found that:

  • 33% reported anxiety, depression, or loneliness

  • 17% showed rule-breaking, hyperactivity, or aggression

  • 12% met the full criteria for a mental disorder

With academic pressure, social anxiety, and lack of sleep in the mix, it's no surprise that our teens are feeling the weight of the world. But here’s the good news—you can play a big role in supporting their mental well-being!

Spot the Signs: Is Your Teen Struggling?

Every teen has their moody days, but persistent changes in behaviour might signal something deeper. Here are some common signs of stress, anxiety, or depression:

  • Negative self-talk (e.g. “I’m not good enough”)

  • Expressions of helplessness (e.g. “What’s the point?”)

  • Isolating in their room for long periods

  • Loss of interest in hobbies, friends, or school

(These are not meant for diagnosis—just things to keep an eye on!)

Resilience: The Secret Ingredient to Good Mental Health

The study found that teens with higher resilience tend to have better mental health scores—but resilience isn’t everything. Overemphasizing it can sometimes make kids feel like they need to "toughen up" instead of receiving the support they need.

So, how can we foster real, healthy resilience in our children?

5 Ways to Raise a Resilient Teen

  1. Teach them to see setbacks as learning experiences → Instead of “I failed,” help them reframe it as “What can I learn from this?”

  2. Encourage self-care and healthy breaks → Sleep, exercise, and hobbies aren’t “lazy”—they’re essential!

  3. Build their self-esteem → Acknowledge their strengths and efforts, not just achievements.

  4. Help them create a strong support system → Family, friends, teachers, and mentors all play a role.

  5. Empower them with purpose → Volunteering or helping others can give teens a sense of meaning and confidence.

Parenting 101: Be the Role Model They Need

Like it or not, your kids are watching you. They absorb how you handle stress, relationships, and setbacks—so being a positive role model is key.

  • Encourage open communication → Let them know they can talk to you without fear of judgment.

  • Show them how to handle stress in a healthy way → Instead of bottling it up, talk about your emotions openly.

  • Make time for connection → Even simple daily check-ins can strengthen your bond.

By fostering trust and creating a safe space for your child, you’re setting them up for lifelong emotional well-being.

Final Thoughts: Progress, Not Perfection

Parenting is a journey, not a test. You don’t need to have all the answers—what matters most is that your child feels seen, heard, and supported.

Want to start small? Tonight, ask your teen one simple question:

  • “How was your day?”

  • Then listen—really listen.