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my daughter has dyslexia and dyspraxia, which has meant she has struggled to find friends(ones that understand her) and also emotionally she can seem immature, she finds it hard reading other people, and fitting in.i worry that it may lead to some kind of depression or anxiety, she has always been honest and open with me, which means she tells me of any worries she has, and I listen and reassure ,I don't judge or offer negative answers . I hope lots of love can see us through any rough days.

Creating trust is a must and believing what they say. It mAy seem silly or insignificant to you but to them it's a big deal. Don't brush off with you'll feel better tomorrow or don't be silly. Let them know you will be there when you need them.

I try and empathise with how difficult it is to be a teenager growing up these days for a number of reasons such as those mentioned above. I try and let them know it is ok and often very normal to feel the way the do. I encourage them to self-care ie making sure they are looking after themselves, whether that is finding something their interested in and doing it more often, or doing any bit of exercise to make themselves feel better even going for a walk, using apps such as mindfulness ones, listening to music they like, reminding them that social media is often a pretence which makes us feel rubbish, trying to stick with friends who are positive and supportive, and most importantly being able to talk to people about how they are feeling.

I think it starts very young, encourage them to talk and not bottle things up, allow them to be open and honest

With teens be willing to talk on their level, even if that means a serious conversation takes place via text while you are in the same house. It can be easier for them to open up that way could lead to a proper conversation or the whole thing could be done that way. It doesn't matter how it happens as long as it happens

Open and honest communication is really important. This is equally important during periods of positivity as well as during more difficult times since this reinforces the idea of sharing our thoughts and feelings. Acknowledging concerns and worries, then offering reassurance that their feelings are valid is helpful too. Just knowing that someone is willing to listen and accept you, even in your darkest times, is a great message to pass on to your teens.

Acknowledge that their fears and worries are real to them, and that the way these feelings manifest physically is real, too. I ask my teen to tell me worst case scenario, reflect it, then best case scenario, reflect it, then likely scenario. It often helps. Even if it doesn't 'solve' the problem, it changes the rumination.

My 15yr old "son" is transgender FTM, and has suffered with anxiety, depression and disphoria for many years. The only way I find supportive to them is to keep real - but in a gentle way... no shouting, guilt trips, "don't be silly" comments.... we have built trust between us (a must) and being non-judgemental is imperative. Teens will always back away if you confront them, its in their nature.

Keeping a calm voice (even if you want to scream) and listening is the way with my teen. You will repeat yourself many times. Keep it simple, don't go into things too much if they are "shut down" - and most importantly .... let them know you are there for them, no matter what