How should I talk to my parents?

[cottonsoul]

Hi everyone!

I hear you, talking to parents about personal stuff can feel awkward, frustrating, or even downright impossible. Maybe you worry they won’t get it, or that they’ll overreact. Maybe you’ve tried before and it didn’t go well. But honestly, communication is a skill, and like any skill, it can get easier with practice.

Here are a few tips to help you talk to your parents (or any trusted adult) in a way that actually helps you feel heard:

Start with “I” Statements – Instead of saying, “You never listen to me,” try, “I feel unheard when I try to talk, and I really want us to understand each other.” This shifts the conversation from blame to connection.

Pick the Right Time – Timing matters! Bringing up a deep conversation when they’re stressed or distracted (or when you’re upset) might not go well. Try finding a moment when everyone is calm.

Be Honest, But Keep It Simple – You don’t have to explain everything at once. Start small. “Hey, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, and I could use some support” is a good opener that invites a conversation instead of shutting it down.

Know That Their First Reaction Might Not Be Their Final One – Parents aren’t perfect. They might need time to process, especially if what you’re sharing is unexpected. Give them a chance to come back to the conversation later.

If Talking Feels Too Hard, Try Writing It Down – Not everyone feels comfortable saying things out loud. A text, letter, or voice note can sometimes be an easier way to get your thoughts across.

Remember, communication takes practice. It won’t always be perfect, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to have the perfect conversation, but it’s to start one.

What’s the hardest part about talking to your parents? Drop your thoughts below!

[cottonsoul]

Hi everyone!
If conversations with your parents (or any trusted adult) aren’t going the way you’d like, here are a few ways to keep the door open:

Revisit the Conversation – If it didn’t go well the first time, that doesn’t mean it never will. You can always try again later with a different approach. “Hey, I know our last conversation was tough, but this is really important to me. Can we try again?”

Set Boundaries – If a conversation turns into an argument or makes you feel worse, it’s okay to take a step back. “I want to talk about this, but I need us to do it in a way that feels safe for both of us.”

Look for Small Wins – Maybe your parents aren’t great at deep talks, but they show love in other ways—checking in on you, making your favorite meal, or giving you space when you need it. Recognizing these moments can help shift the dynamic.

Find Other Support – If talking to your parents just isn’t working, you don’t have to go through things alone. A school counselor, mentor, or another trusted adult can help you figure out the best next steps.

Communication takes time, and every small step counts. What’s one thing you’ve tried that has helped (even just a little)? Let’s talk in the comments!