In this powerful episode of The Laura Dowling Experience, Laura sits down with advanced nurse practitioner and child psychotherapist Deirdre Mellet to unpack what’s really going on for teenagers today.
From self-harm and emotional dysregulation to ADHD, anxiety, and the pressure of living in an overwhelming world, Dearbhla brings deep professional insight — and a lot of heart — to the conversation.
This episode is essential listening for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who wants to better understand and support young people.
00:00 — “There’s no such thing as normal” — Why we need to rethink mental health
02:05 — Why so many young people are struggling today
03:30 — Understanding self-harm and emotional overwhelm
05:45 — Getting into CAMHS: criteria, challenges & real experiences
08:00 — Girls vs boys: how ADHD can present differently
10:00 — What anxiety really feels like for young people
12:00 — Accessing services: what parents can do while waiting for support
13:45 — How to teach emotional regulation (and why “fixing” doesn’t work)
17:00 — What’s really behind teen anger and emotional outbursts
23:00 — “Be the lighthouse, not the anchor” — A powerful parenting metaphor
29:00 — Why ADHD medication isn’t a quick fix (finding the sweet spot)
36:00 — Tools like ear loops & OT support that can make a difference
40:00 — Motivation struggles in teens with ADD/ADHD
42:00 — How to respond if your child shares or writes about dark thoughts
44:00 — The emotional weight of the world on young people
47:00 — How to find a qualified therapist you can trust
50:00 — Why therapist fit matters more than people think
53:00 — Misconceptions around “lack of empathy” in young people
55:00 — Sextortion & online risks: what parents need to know
58:00 — Final reflections: why connection is everything
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