There are many different mental health disorders that can affect adults. Recent studies report that over 60 million adults in the U.S. experienced a mental illness in the past year.

Many adults with mental health disorders are parents. While it may seem difficult or stressful to talk to your kids about your or another adult’s mental health struggles, experts say it is better for the long-term health of your family.   Confusion, lack of information and wrong information about mental illnesses can cause anxiety for children.

Your Child’s Age Matters

When talking to kids about the mental health conditions of family members, be aware that it may affect children differently at different ages. It’s important to speak in a straightforward way and at a level that’s appropriate for a child's age and development level. And being honest is best, but there are limits to how much you need to tell them, especially younger kids.

Toddlers/Preschool Age Children
Young children need less information and fewer details because they understand less. Use simple language to explain how the mental health condition affects the person’s feelings or behavior. Try to use only one or two syllable words that the child will know. And try to focus on behaviors they can see, like crying, yelling or anger, or avoiding going out in public.

School-Age Children
Older children may want more details, and they may ask more specific questions. Try comparing mental health conditions with physical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes. For example, sometimes you need to take medicine, or if the illness is bad, you may have to visit a hospital for help getting better.

Teenagers
Teenagers can usually absorb more information and may ask difficult questions. They may also have a better understanding of mental health. But since they’re more likely to talk with their friends than adults, they may have some misinformation. They may need more details to add clarity to what they already think about it. Be open to dialogue. Encourage them to ask questions.

Choose the Right Time and Place

It’s also important to consider the timing and environment when you decide to have a conversation with kids about mental health. Be sure that you talk to them in a space that feels safe and comfortable. And choose a time when they aren’t stressed and they feel rested. 

Pay Close Attention
While talking to your child, watch their reaction to what is said. Slow down or back up if the child becomes confused or looks upset. If your child looks upset or worried, take time to reassure them that you (or your family member) are being helped for the mental health condition. And always reassure them that it is not their fault that you (or your family member) are experiencing a mental health condition. 

Be Prepared
It’s important to be prepared to answer any questions your child may have. Make sure you understand the subject and can answer basic questions, such as what are mental illnesses, who can get them, what causes them (if that is known), how are diagnoses made, and what treatments are available.

Ask for Help

If you’re already seeking help from a counselor or therapist, you may want to talk with your therapist about ways you can frame the conversation with your child. It may be helpful to ask a trusted family member or friend for additional support.

And there are many other resources available to help you find support for navigating parenting and managing your condition. Consider looking for a support group through mental health organizations like NAMI  or Mental Health America. 

Your child may also benefit from counseling or attending a support group to help them build positive coping skills and talk through what they might be feeling.

Remember, you are not alone. Support and help are available.

Sources: The State of Mental Health in America,  Mental Health America, 2025; When a parent has mental illness, how to support kids,  Boston Children’s Hospital, 2022; Talking To Kids About Mental Illnesses,  American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 2017