As summer winds down and a new school year begins, many young people may be feeling the pressure. Academic demands can be one part of it. Many are also facing major life transitions, such as entering the workforce or moving out for the first time. Even just trying to meet expectations can be overwhelming and stressful.
According to Statistics Canada, the number of youth aged 16 to 21 who rated their mental health as “fair” or “poor” more than doubled between 2019 and 2023, rising from 12 per cent to 26 per cent.
That means one in four young people are likely starting the school year already struggling.
Parents and caregivers have a vital role to play. They can support young people through a time that can feel uncertain and confusing. But it’s a balancing act. Caregivers may need to step back, but also stay connected.
Here are four ways parents and caregivers can support youth during the back-to-school season and beyond.
1. Listen more than you talk
It’s natural to want to fix things, especially when a young person is anxious or overwhelmed. But often, what they need most is someone to hear what they are saying.
“It’s okay to simply ask: Are you looking for advice, or do you just want me to listen?” says Rob Nettleton, a social worker at The Royal who often works with youth and their families.
He says emotional validation is essential and often overlooked. “Parents don’t need to agree or fully understand what their teen is going through. They just need to acknowledge the emotion behind it.”
2. Respect their independence, but don’t disappear
As youth start making their own decisions, caregivers may struggle with when to step in and when to stay back. There’s no simple rule, but presence matters, even from a distance.
“If they just want space and there are no immediate risks, we can't really do anything aside from educate ourselves, set a good example, and be open,” says Nettleton.
Staying connected might mean sending a quick text, asking about their routine, or offering small acts of support. That could include groceries, a ride, or an impromptu movie night. What matters most is showing up consistently.
3. Know when to reach out for help
Mental illnesses such as anxiety and mood disorders often surface during the teen years and early twenties. Recognizing the signs and knowing when to act can make a difference.
The earlier a young person gets support, the better their chances of recovery.
“If the young person in your life is struggling, don’t wait. Reach out,” says Nettleton. A family doctor is a good first step. If someone is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, go to the nearest emergency department.
4. Talk about mental health like you talk about physical health
Back-to-school stress is real. For some youth, it can trigger or worsen mental health challenges. Open and non-judgmental conversations help reduce shame and build trust.
“Parents can model this by being honest about their own mental health and how they manage it,” says Sara Stewart, a social worker and manager of the Youth Psychiatry Program at The Royal.
It’s also important to learn the signs that someone may be struggling. Changes in sleep or eating, irritability, withdrawal from friends, or lack of motivation are common signals that support may be needed, not character flaws.
Caregivers should also prioritize their own well-being. Eating nutritious meals, getting enough sleep, and moving your body are the basics of good health. Making space for joy matters too.
“Figure out what actually leaves you feeling calm and energized,” says Stewart. “That’s the best kind of self-care, and it looks different for everyone.”
To help parents and caregivers feel more confident and connected, The Royal is offering free virtual workshops this summer and fall.