How Two Churches Equipped Teens and Parents for Mental Health Conversations

On a cold Sunday night in February, parents and teens walked into the sanctuary of Fellowship Reformed Church in Hudsonville, Michigan ready to learn and engage in a conversation that is becoming increasingly important: how to support teens who are struggling with mental health. The evening was designed by Fellowship Reformed Church and Lifeline Church in partnership with the Michigan Catalyst Network in response to a growing need within their community. Local leaders had been experiencing firsthand the rising challenges teens face and wanted to create an event that would equip both students and parents with the awareness, tools, and confidence needed to respond well to mental health struggles. The goal was simple but meaningful: create a space where honest conversations could begin and where both teens and adults could learn how to walk alongside those who are struggling.

Beginning the Conversation

The night began with everyone gathered together in the sanctuary for a brief introduction and opening conversation. Organizers shared the heart behind the event and emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces where mental health can be discussed openly and compassionately. Following the introduction, teens and adults separated into different seminars designed specifically for their needs.

The adult seminar focused on practical ways parents, mentors, and other caring adults can support teens who are struggling. Participants discussed strategies for recognizing warning signs, engaging in meaningful conversations, and creating environments where teens feel safe sharing their struggles.

Meanwhile, the teen seminar focused on raising awareness about the signs of mental health challenges and offering practical tools for coping when those struggles arise. Students were given real-life examples of how to be a supportive friend when someone they know is going through a difficult season. Through small group discussions, teens had the opportunity to practice how they might talk with and support someone experiencing a mental health crisis, helping move the conversation from theory into real-life application.

A Powerful and Personal Conclusion

The evening concluded with a deeply moving testimony from a local high school chaplain who shared his family’s experience of losing their son to suicide last year. Speaking directly to parents, students who have friends who are struggling, and those who may be personally facing mental health challenges, he offered a message that was both heartbreaking and profoundly meaningful. His story, while difficult to hear, was full of compassion and care for those in attendance. It also included a challenge to everyone in attendance to take mental health seriously and find ways to support those who are struggling.

Looking Ahead

By bringing teens and parents together for honest conversation and practical learning, the evening was an important step toward ensuring that young people facing mental health challenges are not left to navigate them alone.

If you are interested in learning more about this event and how you could host something similar in your church or community, email info@arc21.org. The Alliance of Reformed Churches can connect you with the team who organized the event and help you explore ways to bring this kind of conversation and training to your own community.