Navigating Adolescents’ Mental Health with Jen Robb: Advocacy, Intuition and the Power of Community

In this powerful episode, Jen sits down with Jen Robb—nurse practitioner, author and advocate—to explore the complex landscape of adolescent mental health. Their conversation is both deeply personal and universally relevant, shedding light on the challenges parents face when trying to support a child in crisis.

Jen Robb opens up about her daughter Chloe’s mental health struggles, sharing the raw truth of navigating fear, uncertainty and the overwhelming desire to “get it right” as a parent. Through her story, she highlights the critical role of intuition, advocacy and finding the right support system. The episode is a reminder that no parent should walk this journey alone.

Why Open Conversations Matter

One of the strongest themes in this episode is the need for honest, ongoing conversations about mental health—especially with children and adolescents. Too often, struggles are hidden beneath silence, shame or fear. Jen emphasizes that healing begins when young people feel safe enough to speak and when adults are willing to listen without judgment.

The Weight of Parental Guilt

Many parents carry guilt when their children are hurting. Jen speaks candidly about this emotional burden, acknowledging how easy it is to question every decision, every missed sign and every moment you wish you could redo. She reminds us that guilt doesn’t make us better parents—connection does.

The Necessity of Advocacy

Navigating the mental health system can feel overwhelming. Jen stresses the importance of strong advocacy—asking questions, pushing for answers and ensuring your child receives the care they deserve. Advocacy isn’t just a responsibility; it’s an act of love.

Recognizing Signs of Distress

From subtle changes in behavior to more obvious signals, Jen encourages parents to trust their instincts. When something feels off, it often is. Early recognition and intervention can make all the difference, and intuition is one of a parent’s most powerful tools.

Creating Safe Spaces for Children

A recurring message from the conversation is the importance of safe, judgment-free spaces. Children need room to express confusion, fear and big emotions. When they know their feelings will be met with compassion rather than correction, healing becomes possible.

Finding Strength in Community

Jen and Jen highlight how isolating motherhood can feel—especially when navigating mental health challenges. Community support is transformative. Whether through local groups, online spaces or friendships formed in struggle, connection has the power to break shame and create belonging.

Turning Pain into Purpose

Jen’s story is a testament to how pain can evolve into purpose. By sharing her experiences, she creates a pathway for others to feel seen, supported and empowered. Healing often requires facing hard truths, but the process can lead to profound growth and clarity.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00] Navigating Mental Health Challenges

• [05:13] The Importance of Advocacy

• [09:02] Understanding Trauma and Its Impact

• [13:08] Recognizing Signs of Distress in Children

• [21:08] Creating Safe Spaces for Communication

• [31:02] Empowering Women Through Community Support

Resources Mentioned

Jenn’s Website https://warriormomcoach.net/

Jenn’s Book https://a.co/d/asvt0FG

Connect with Jenn:

https://www.instagram.com/warriormom_jennrobb

https://www.facebook.com/jenn.robb.2025/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-robb-msn-aprn-acnp-c-fim-p-fmp-c-346992106/