My child or teen is struggling
Notice, talk and get them help.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Notice and talk
Trust what you see. Listen more than you speak.
- Struggling TeenIs your teen quieter, angrier or more worried than before? Trust that feeling. You do not need the right words, and you do not have to fix this alone. Here is what to watch for, how to start talking, and where families can get help, whatever their immigration status.Guide
- Teen AnxietyWorry is part of being a teenager. Anxiety that never lets up is different, and it is very treatable. Here is how to tell the difference, how to help at home without making it worse, and where to get your teen checked in California, whatever your immigration status, with local programs for San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.Guide
- Ways to start talking with your teenPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 4: Get them help
Their immigration status does not stop them from getting care.
- Child Mental Health HelpYour child seems sad, scared or not like themselves. You can get them help, and their immigration status does not stand in the way. In California, every child under 19 can get full Medi-Cal if they meet the other rules, and that includes mental health care. Here is where to start anywhere in California, with local programs for East Palo Alto, San Mateo County and Santa Clara County.Guide
- Before you call: my notes about my childPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: For your teen to read
Written for young people.
- Teen Talk NowFeeling alone, stressed, or like it is all too much? You do not have to carry it by yourself. You do not have to wait until it gets worse. Here is who you can call, text or chat with today, what happens when you reach out, and what stays private.Guide
- My people to reachPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
- Help lines: Someone to talk to, not an emergencyCall, text or chat with a service that answers now.Help now
- Didi HirschA place to explore mental health services and support programs.Organization
- FindTreatment.govFind mental health and substance-use treatment facilities by location. Confirm services directly with the facility.Organization
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
All situations- Someone I love may be thinking about suicideWhat to do now, how to ask and how to keep them safe.4 steps
- I feel overwhelmed, anxious or downCalm your body, know the signs and find counseling.4 steps
- Someone I love was deported or detainedGrief, the children and living with fear.4 steps
- Someone I love is drinking or using drugsHelp before they are ready, treatment and your rights.4 steps