September 2025
Building Trust, One Conversation at a Time.
Discover what it means to be a trusted adult—and how small, thoughtful actions can create lasting support and connection.
At CASA, we believe it takes a community to raise and support our youth. Beyond parents and caregivers, trusted adults play a powerful role in helping kids feel safe, supported, and understood. But what does it really mean to be a trusted adult—and how can you step into that role? Let’s explore together.
💼What’s a Trusted Adult, and How Can I Be One?📚
When people talk about youth mental health, the phrase “trusted adult” comes up often. You might have a general idea of what it means, but why are trusted adults so important? What role do they play—and how can you be one for the young people in your life?
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a trusted adult is someone chosen by the child who isn’t necessarily a parent or caregiver but is part of their safe, natural support network. This could include teachers, coaches, family friends, mentors, or leaders in faith, sports, or community programs.
Trusted adults share values with the child and their community, act as role models, and provide guidance in ways that foster positive outcomes. At their core, they help young people feel safe, supported, and seen.
💡Tips for Being a Trusted Adult.
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Young people are more likely to open up when they feel comfortable and respected. Offer a judgment-free zone where they know their thoughts and feelings will be taken seriously.
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Show them they’re being heard by making eye contact, nodding, and reflecting back what they share. Listening builds trust far more than giving advice right away.
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Gentle curiosity builds trust. Give them the choice of how much to share, and celebrate their willingness to open up little by little.
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Young people learn resilience, respect, and patience by watching how adults around them navigate challenges. Every small action sets an example.
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Showing up—whether it’s attending an event, checking in, or simply keeping your word—proves you’re dependable. Reliability builds long-term trust.
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Keep conversations confidential unless safety is at risk. If you need to involve another adult, explain why so they don’t feel blindsided.
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Rather than telling them what to do, ask open-ended questions: “What do you think your options are?” or “Would you like me to share some ideas?” This empowers them to make their own choices.
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Notice and praise their persistence, bravery, or small improvements—not just outcomes. Recognizing progress builds confidence and resilience.
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Relatable stories can help normalize what they’re going through. Keep it short, supportive, and focused on encouragement without making it about you.
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If they share something difficult or surprising, manage your reaction. Staying calm helps them feel safe to keep opening up.
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Encourage journaling, creative outlets, exercise, or mindfulness. Modeling these practices yourself shows them healthy ways to manage stress.
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Before giving advice, check in: “Do you want me to listen, or would you like suggestions?” Respecting their answer shows empathy and builds trust.
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A quick text, remembering an important detail, or simply asking how they’re doing can mean the world. Small, consistent gestures make a big difference.
The benefits of having a trusted adult are powerful. Research shows improved mental health and well-being, reduced impact of trauma, and stronger academic outcomes. Most importantly, trusted adults remind kids they don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.
Remember: being a trusted adult doesn’t mean carrying a child’s struggles on your shoulders—it means walking alongside them, offering encouragement, and helping them find the right support. Sometimes, listening with compassion is the most impactful thing you can do.
📚 Sources & Further Reading
We strive to provide accurate, research-backed information to support families and trusted adults. Below are the resources we consulted for this post—feel free to explore them to learn more:
What’s a Trusted Adult and How Can I Be One? – National Alliance on Mental Illness. Read here