What’s the Right Way to Talk to a Teen Struggling With Mental Health?

Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide, self-harm, and mental health. Please listen with care.  What if your teen’s big emotions weren’t the problem, but your response was? Kate Mason sits down with licensed therapist and author Katie K. May, a leading expert in teen self-harm, DBT, and emotional regulation. Together, they explore the often-quiet struggles parents face when their teenager is overwhelmed by big, burning feelings, what Katie calls being “on fire.” Drawing from her personal journey and professional experience, Katie explains why some kids feel more intensely, how parents unintentionally fuel the flames, and the radical shift needed to connect with and support teens through emotional storms.  Listen For3:36 Why do teens self-harm and what does it achieve?7:26 How did Katie K. May overcome self-harm and trauma?12:57 What is radical acceptance in parenting?20:32 Why does fixing your teen often backfire?30:15 Can stable teens still engage in self-destructive behavior? Leave a rating/review for this podcast with one click   Connect with guest: Katie K. MayLinkedIn | TikTok | Instagram | Instagram | Facebook  Contact Kate: Email | Website | Kate’s Book on Amazon | LinkedIn | Facebook | X