People need to feel safe to talk without their ideas being criticized, judged, demeaned, or mocked.

Accessing a "professional listener" such as a psychologist or counselor can be useful if the loved one wants to use this form of support.

Prioritizing listening to their child or adolescent is extremely important. It can be very hard to listen to someone who is upset or troubled without offering advice or suggestions or otherwise telling him or her what to do.

One of the most important goals to have may well be the goal to create the life you want without preventing other people from creating the life they want.

Once parents have a clear idea of their important parenting goals, beliefs, and values, they can then think about specific situations and identify the outcomes they would like to achieve in these situations. How can you be the parent you want to be whether or not your children are behaving as you would prefer?

Spending time with the child or adolescent in mutually enjoyable activities on a regular basis will help to build warmth and trust.

Seeking the counsel of trusted and respected health professionals can also be helpful in providing parents with some balance for their concerns as well as other avenues of support.