Family & Relationship
Motherhood: Mom-Teenage Daughter Conversations that matter (6)
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Emotions and Mental Health in a Safe Space
As discussed in the previous article, our teenage girls must develop self-confidence. But true self-confidence is rooted in the ability to manage their emotions. Emotional instability is common during this stage of life—one moment she’s laughing, the next she’s withdrawn behind a closed door. “I’m fine,” she says—but you know she’s not. Your daughter may be carrying more than she lets on—pressure, comparison, self-doubt, or even anxiety and sadness she hasn’t yet learned to name.
In a world that praises toughness and perfection, she needs someone who reminds her: It’s okay to not be okay.
Feelings Are Not Failures
Teen girls often think being strong means staying silent. But bottling things up doesn’t make emotions disappear—it just makes them heavier. We need to teach our daughters that emotions don’t make them weak; they make them human.
Emotion is a complex psychological state that includes what we feel inside, how our bodies react, and how we express those feelings.
We must help our teenage girls understand their emotions—what they are, why they come up, and how to handle them in healthy ways. As they go through major changes and face peer pressure, emotional awareness becomes crucial. Emotions can be intense during the teenage years, but learning to manage them helps girls respond with wisdom instead of reacting based on how they feel in the moment or what others think of them. This builds confidence, resilience, and self-respect.
As Proverbs 25:28 says, “A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.” Teaching our girls emotional self-control gives them strength and stability in a world that often tries to shake their identity.
How You Can Be Her Safe Space
- Listen Attentively to Her
When she shares—even in little ways—resist the urge to jump in with advice. Sometimes she just needs to know she’s heard. - Help Her Name What She Feels
Teach her to say, “I’m sad,” “I’m frustrated,” or “I feel anxious.” Naming emotions helps her manage them and not feel overwhelmed by them. - Talk About Mental Health Openly
Share how you handle stress or when you’ve needed support. Let her know that therapy, prayer, journaling, or talking to someone trusted are all valid tools. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a strength. - Stay Calm With Her Emotions
Don’t panic when she cries or gets moody. Show her that emotions are welcome—not something to hide or be ashamed of.
Your presence gives her permission to feel without fear. She doesn’t need perfect answers—she needs a safe space where it’s okay to feel, fall apart, and start again.
How do you help your daughter feel safe enough to express her emotions? Share below.
