How To Talk About Mental Health When It's Taboo

Scripts for different generations

Talking to older adults about mental health

Elder generations may see mental illness as taboo or associate therapy with extreme cases. They might believe mental health struggles are something to “tough out” or keep within the family. Reframing is key. Try presenting mental health care how we understand it today, as routine maintenance or strength-building—not a sign of weakness.

Cultural reframing tips:

• Compare therapy to a doctor visit: “We go to the doctor when something feels off and for annual check-ups to make sure things are running correctly—this is the same.”
• Use metaphors like gardening, fitness, car maintenance or something that is relevant to them: “It’s like exercising—you do it to stay well, not just when something’s wrong.”

Sample script:

I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, and it’s starting to affect my everyday life. I’m working on my mental strength by asking for help, like how we go to the doctor when we feel sick.

Common responses and how to reply:

• “Why are you telling me this?” → “Because I trust you, and this is important to me.”
• “That’s just life. Everyone struggles.” → “That’s true, and I’m learning better ways to handle those struggles so they don’t become too heavy for me to carry.”
• “Therapy is for people who are really sick.” → “It’s not just for when things are really bad — I’m using it to stay well and take care of myself so I don’t become really sick.”

Talking to parents about mental health

Parents may respond with fear, sadness, or even defensiveness––especially if they think they’re to blame. Others may try to minimize how you're feeling, thinking it’s “just a phase.” It helps to be clear that you’re asking for understanding, not judgment. 

Sometimes, parents also want to help you but don’t know how. You may be more likely to feel supported if you’ve thought of, and clearly communicate, what help looks like for you. This could be tangible or emotional support. 

Cultural reframing tips:

• Emphasize that getting help is a way to stay strong, prevent things from getting worse and ideally help you in the future.
• Reassure your parents this isn’t about blame; it’s about self-care.

Sample script:

“I’ve been struggling, and I don’t know how to fix it alone. I’d really appreciate your support while I figure out what kind of help I need.”

Common responses and how to reply:

• “This is just a phase.” → “It might be, but I want to get support either way so I can feel better.”
• “You don’t need therapy—you need rest.” → “Rest definitely helps, and so does talking to someone trained to help with this.”
• “Is this something we did wrong?” → “It’s not about blaming anyone. I just want to take care of my mental health."
• “Tell me how to help!” → “Thank you! It means a lot to be able to count on you. Right now, support would look like….”

Talking to teens or younger siblings about mental health

With younger family members, it’s important to be relatable and open — not preachy. Teens may downplay their feelings or worry about being judged. Keep the tone casual, and use analogies they understand.

Tone and language tips:

• Use metaphors like music, games, or healing from a sports injury.
• Normalize emotions while also modeling healthy ways to talk about them so they know they can come to you and feel safe, despite what is happening for you.

Sample script:

“Sometimes when life gets hard, it’s normal to have really big feelings you don’t know what to do with you. I'm here if you ever feel like that.”

Common responses and how to reply:

• “I’m fine. This is dumb.” → “I hear you’re fine and this seems silly. And it’s important that you know I’m someone you can talk to if you ever change your mind.”
• “I don’t want to talk about it.” → “Thanks for setting that boundary with me. I’m here when or if you do want to talk.”
• “You don’t get it.” → “Maybe not exactly, but I care about you and I’m here to listen.”