Content Warning:

This episode discusses suicide, grief, and teen mental health. Please take care while listening.

This episode of the Raising Teenagers mini series is a deeply important and heartfelt conversation about teen mental health.

I’m joined by my friend Rene, who shares her perspective after the heartbreaking loss of her son to suicide.

Together, we talk about the importance of awareness, open conversations, and supporting young people through the challenges they face. Rene also shares memories of who her son was, allowing us to honour his life while discussing a topic that is often difficult but incredibly important.

This episode is shared with the hope that honest conversations can help parents, caregivers, and communities better understand and support teenagers navigating their mental health.

Show Notes – Support Resources:

If this episode brings up difficult feelings, please know you’re not alone and help is available.

Australia

Lifeline – 13 11 14

24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention.

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

Support for anxiety, depression, and mental health concerns.

Kids Helpline (ages 5–25) – 1800 55 1800

Free, confidential counselling for young people.

Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467

24/7 counselling for people affected by suicide.

headspace – 1800 650 890

Mental health support for young people aged 12–25, including online and in-person services.

ReachOut Australia – reachout.com

Online mental health support, information, and tools for young people and parents.

SANE Australia – 1800 187 263

Support and information for people experiencing complex mental health issues and their families.

13YARN – 13 92 76

A national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to yarn with someone who understands their culture.

Black Dog Institute – blackdoginstitute.org.au

Evidence-based resources about mental health, suicide prevention, and support for families and carers.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.

International listeners

If you’re outside Australia, please contact your local emergency number or visit 👉 findahelpline.com to find support in your country.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You deserve care too.

The teen years are a wild, beautiful ride, full of growth, independence, and surprising moments of connection. In this episode, I reflect on what it’s like to raise teenagers, honour their individuality, and navigate the balance between guidance and giving them space. A heartfelt conversation about trust, connection, and the joys and challenges of this unique stage of family life.

This episode introduces a new focus on the teenage years, with more reflections to come.

In this episode, I share what a real day in my life looks like from slow mornings and school drop-offs to horses, housework, quiet nap times, and evenings together.

Just our everyday. Kids, chores, animals, and making it all work.

A gentle, honest look at this season of life, right in the middle of it.