The Day I Realized I Didn't Know My Own Child
A personal story about the moment a parent realized they no longer truly knew their teen—and how that painful awakening led to deeper connection, emotional growth, and the creation of The Mentor Well. Learn why mentorship matters, how to rebuild trust, and what every parent should know about supporting teen mental health and emotional intelligence.
What Your Teen Is Desperately Trying to Tell You (But Can’t)
Many teens say “I’m fine” when they’re struggling inside. This post shares a father’s raw story of losing his daughter and what he wishes he had understood sooner. Learn what “I don’t know” really means, how to connect with your teen before a crisis, and why mentorship can be the missing bridge. Support your teen’s mental health—before it’s too late.
To the Parent Who Feels Like They’re Failing: You’re Not Alone
When your teen struggles, it’s easy to feel like you’re failing as a parent. This article offers a raw, honest message for parents carrying guilt, fear, and heartbreak. You’re not alone. You’re not broken. And your love still matters—more than you may ever know.
If Your Teen Isn’t Talking to You, Who Are They Turning To?
If your teen isn’t talking to you, they’re talking to someone. The question is, do they trust you with the hard stuff? Trust is built in how we respond. When they open up, don’t fix. Just listen. Be the safe place they come back to. Because when they share, they’re not giving you information, they’re giving you their trust.
Why ‘Tough Love’ Is the Wrong Answer for Struggling Teens?
Tough love doesn’t build resilience, it pushes teens into silence. When struggling, they don’t need more pressure; they need to feel heard. Adding stress triggers shutdown, not motivation. Real growth happens when teens feel supported, not judged. Instead of pushing harder, try listening first. Because the strongest foundation for success isn’t fear, it’s trust. Your teen needs you, not just your rules.
Schools Teach These Topics, But Won’t Talk About Sensitive Mental Health Topics
Schools teach about war, genocide, and oppression, but avoid suicide, addiction, and trauma. Why? Ignoring mental health doesn’t protect students; it isolates them. If we can discuss the darkest moments in history, we can talk about the struggles teens face daily. It’s time to stop treating mental health like a side note and start real conversations that save lives. #MentalHealthMatters
What If Emotional Intelligence Became the New Standard of Success?
What if IQ isn't enough for true success? Emotional intelligence (EQ) predicts success better than grades ever could, yet schools ignore it. IQ opens doors, but EQ keeps them open, building empathy and resilience. Learn why EQ matters most—and how teaching emotional skills to your teen can transform their future.
Schools Fear the Suicide Conversation: Why That’s Dangerous?
Nearly 1 in 4 Canadian teens have thought about suicide, yet most schools and parents avoid discussing it. Silence increases isolation, while open conversations reduce stigma and save lives. This guide helps parents start critical conversations with their teens about suicide, empowering families to connect, recognize warning signs, and support their teen’s mental health effectively.
Nearly 1 in 4 Teens in Canada Considers Suicide, Yet Schools Remain Silent
Nearly 1 in 4 Canadian teens consider suicide, yet schools often avoid discussing it. Suicide is the second leading cause of youth death, yet conversations remain taboo. Silence increases isolation, while open dialogue can save lives. Learn why discussing youth suicide matters—and how talking openly can make a life-saving difference.
The Silent Struggles of Teens: How to Know When They’re Feeling Lost
Feeling lost doesn’t mean a teen is depressed or anxious. It’s often about lacking confidence, direction, or the ability to process emotions. Teens need guidance to navigate these challenges and build resilience. By recognizing the signs, offering support, and normalizing their emotions, parents can help them find their path. When needed, mentors, coaches, or therapists can provide additional guidance.
Maddie Didn’t Plan a Legacy, But She Left One Anyway
Maddie didn’t plan her legacy, but her story continues to save lives and inspire change. As a bright 14-year-old navigating a complex world, she couldn't have known the profound ripple effect she’d leave behind. Her unintentional legacy sparks open conversations, drives mental health advocacy, and reminds us that even small actions can create lasting impact. Maddie’s love and light endure, inspiring us all to make a difference.
Are You Waiting for a Sign? The Signs Are Already There
The signs your teen is struggling are often subtle—changes in mood, habits, or behaviour. Don’t wait for a crisis to act. By listening, being present, and creating a safe space, you can connect with your teen before things escalate. The signs are already there; your presence and compassion can make all the difference.
What No One Understands About Losing a Child
Losing a child is an unimaginable grief, filled with misconceptions that can deepen the loneliness. Grief doesn’t expire; you don’t “move on,” you carry it forward. Talking about a lost child doesn’t worsen the pain, it keeps their memory alive. Other children don’t fill the void, and strength includes falling apart. Life changes forever, but it can still hold meaning as you honour their memory.
The Stories You Connected With in 2024
As 2024 ends, I’m deeply grateful for this LinkedIn community. Sharing Maddie’s story and seeing her legacy touch so many hearts has been humbling. In 2025, we’re moving from connection to action, amplifying mental health initiatives to create real change. This year, we touched hearts—next year, we aim to save lives. Let’s make 2025 unforgettable. #MentalHealthMatters #Gratitude
Forever Fourteen: Maddie’s Photo on My Fridge and the Journey of Life
A simple photo on my fridge tells a profound story. While pictures of my sons change with each milestone—graduations, travels, and new adventures—Maddie’s Grade 8 photo remains frozen in time. Nearly 10 years after her passing, her legacy continues to grow through her brothers’ advocacy for mental health. Life moves on, but Maddie’s radiant smile reminds us of love, loss, and the power of memory.
What Would You Do If Your Teen Texted You, ‘I Don’t Want to Live’?
What would you do if your teen sent you a text saying they didn’t want to live anymore? Would you know how to respond?
Most parents think, ‘That could never happen to my child.’ But trust me, no one is immune. I’ve heard too many heartbreaking stories from parents who thought they’d see the signs but didn’t.
Are you prepared for that moment? Because waiting until it happens could be the biggest mistake of your life.
How To Handle It When Your Teen Rejects Therapy?
"When teens reject therapy, it can feel like hitting a wall. They may resist for reasons like past experiences, fear of stigma, or discomfort with vulnerability. But don't lose hope—there are many ways to support them beyond traditional therapy. From mentoring and coaching to conversations with trusted friends, athletes, or LGBTQ+ leaders, finding the right connection can make all the difference. Sometimes, a trusted guide is the first step toward healing.
#TeenMentalHealth #MentorshipMatters #SupportOurTeens #AlternativeSupport #MentalHealthJourney"