Ashhar Alam

Shalini Passi recently shared a personal incident in which a young person confided in her about their mental health. Speaking on a podcast, the socialite recalled being approached by a Gen Z child who told her, “Aunty, I am very depressed.”

Reacting to the moment, the Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives actor said that many parents encourage their children to speak to her because they find it difficult to open up to their own mothers.

She recalled responding by sharing her own experiences, saying that at a similar age she was managing household responsibilities, pursuing late-night classes, and raising a child.

She added that she encouraged the youngster to recognise the opportunities they had, especially studying at a top university, and to approach life with enthusiasm and optimism.

Why children turn to non-parental adults for emotional support

Explaining why children often choose to confide in adults outside their immediate family, therapist and COO of Anna Chandy & Associates, Deepti Chandy, said in an interview that this behaviour is quite common.

According to her, children instinctively understand that parents are emotionally invested and may react with worry, strong emotions, or expectations, which can make honest expression difficult.

She explained that non-parental figures, such as counsellors, teachers, therapists, or trusted mentors offer emotional neutrality. This distance creates a sense of psychological safety, allowing children to speak openly without fear of judgement, overreaction, or immediate consequences.

Why dismissing children’s mental health concerns can be harmful

Chandy also highlighted that despite growing awareness, children’s emotional struggles have historically been downplayed or dismissed as phases or attention-seeking behaviour. When this happens repeatedly, children may feel that their emotions are unimportant.

She noted that such responses can weaken trust and emotional security. Over time, children may stop sharing their feelings, internalise distress, or seek reassurance elsewhere. While adults should avoid overreacting, acknowledging and listening to a child’s emotions is essential.

“When children share something personal, they are placing trust in the adult,” she said, adding that how adults respond can shape a child’s willingness to communicate in the future. Without this sense of safety, children may increasingly rely on peers or other third parties instead of caregivers for emotional support.

READ MORE: Nawabzada Mohammad Asif Ali shows the humble side of royalty

Chandy concluded by emphasising that parents who consistently listen and validate emotions, even when they don’t fully agree often build relationships that remain open and trusting well into adulthood.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and expert insights shared during interviews.