Let’s talk mental health myths, because there are a few that come up again and again, especially when it comes to kids.

One of the biggest myths I still hear is that kids are “too young” for therapy. It’s a question I hear all the time, are kids really old enough to need therapy, or what could they possibly need therapy for?

But here’s what we know from decades of research: about half of all mental health disorders start by age 14. That means if we wait until high school to pay attention, we’ve already missed some really crucial years.

Early support doesn’t mean labeling your child or overreacting.

It might mean teaching them coping tools, helping them navigate big feelings, or simply ruling out something more serious. It’s not a sign that something is wrong, it’s a sign that you’re paying attention.

And that’s one of the most protective things a parent can do.

The second myth is just as common: that talking to kids about mental health will somehow make them anxious or put ideas in their heads.

In reality, it’s the opposite.

When we talk about emotions, stress, or mental health, even casually, we take away the mystery and the stigma.

We make it normal to say, “I’m having a hard day,” or “I need a break,” and that gives kids permission to do the same.

It also means if your child ever does need help, they’ll already know that reaching out is a sign of strength, not shame.

And maybe most importantly, it opens the door for them to help a friend. Because when kids know the language of mental health, they notice when someone else is struggling, and sometimes, that awareness can truly make a difference.

Therapy isn’t “too much” for kids.

Talking about mental health doesn’t cause problems, it helps prevent them.

And normalizing these conversations? That’s how we raise a generation that knows how to care for themselves and each other.

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