Your teen’s silence might be louder than any words. Watch for shifts like trouble sleeping, mood swings, isolation, and changes in grades or friends. These are not “just phases”; they’re signs. Teens may not say “I’m not okay,” but their behavior will show you. Create safe space. Ask, “How are you, really?” Then stay. Listen without judgment. Sometimes, showing up is more powerful than having the perfect words. Get support from school counselors or mental health pros if needed. You don’t need all the answers; you just need to be present. And that presence might be their first step toward healing.