But it’s a lot for the parents trying to support teenagers like him too. 

Across the UK, families are searching for support for parents of anxious teenagers, often feeling unsure where to turn. By the end of 2023/24, around 320,000 children were still waiting to start mental health treatment. With social media pressures, exam stress and the everyday challenges young people face, it’s no wonder so many families feel stretched to breaking point. 

At Spurgeons, we believe that strong, supported families are the foundation children need to thrive. That’s why we’re here to offer teens support with their anxiety as well as practical guidance and compassionate help for their parents and guardians who are doing their best in incredibly difficult circumstances. 

The reality families are facing:

Youth mental health statistics are worrying.  

 

  • 1 in 4 young people aged 16–24 have self‑harmed 

  • In 2023, 9.1% of 17–24‑year‑olds said they had thought about self‑harming in the last four weeks 

 

Behind every number is a young person like Matt and a parent, carer or guardian trying to stay strong for them. 

We know how frightening it can feel when your child is struggling. We know the pressure of long waiting lists, the fear of not knowing what to do next and the emotional toll of trying to hold everything together. Many parents tell us simply: “It’s a lot.” 

 

And they’re right. 

 

How does Spurgeons support parents and their teens?

Mental health services are under immense strain, leaving families feeling stuck and alone. That’s why Spurgeons provides family mental health support that is accessible, compassionate and practical. 

Our work includes: 

  • Counselling for young people, giving teens a safe space to talk 

  • Guidance and advice from our Family Support Team, helping parents understand what their child is experiencing 

  • Free digital resources, offering tools to navigate difficult conversations and challenging moments 

  • Support in schools and communities, so help is available where families already are 

We support the whole family because when parents feel informed and supported, young people feel safer and more understood. 

How can you help?

None of this work is possible without the generosity of supporters, partners and funders. Your kindness helps us reach more families, expand our services and ensure that no family faces life’s struggles alone. 

Your donation could mean: 

  • a teenager gets counselling sooner 

  • a parent receives guidance that brings clarity and relief 

  • a family finds hope at a moment they feared they were losing it 

The pressures on young people are real. That’s why our appeal is called It’s a lot. Because being a teenager is a lot. But we believe that supporting them shouldn’t be. 

 

*Matt is a fictional young person, but his story is inspired by many of the young people we meet everyday.