Understanding teenage slang can be an arduous task for parents.
New terms appear on social media almost overnight, sometimes leading to confusion and misinformation.
As opposed to some slang terms like "rizz," others--such as "menty b"--are more serious and require further consideration.
If your teenager declares they have a "mentee b," the experience may not be as carefree as they make out.
What Does "Menty B" Mean?
According to Know Your Meme, "menty b" is an abbreviated form for "mental breakdown."
"Tired of" is often exaggeratedly or humorously to convey overwhelmed feelings.
This could include discussing an upcoming test or a tough week.
Even with its casual tone, this phrase has gone viral on social media, receiving millions of views across different platforms.
Teenagers might say things like, "I'm having an argument about my homework," or, "This math test will give me a tantrum."
Mental illness does not refer to simple emotional struggles, nor should its use diminish its significance.
However, this has prompted mixed responses.
Some individuals find it helpful to open conversations about mental health.
Others fear it might normalize serious concerns by generalizing terms like "mental breakdown."
Why Parents Should Pay Attention
According to experts such as teen psychologist Dr. Cameron Caswell, slang such as "menty b" could facilitate more honest conversations about emotions.
Caswell points out that teenagers often use such terms to express feelings of stress or being overwhelmed.
Though not always indicative of severe mental health problems, parents need to remain alert and responsive.
TikTokers such as undiagnosedadhd9 have shared that saying "many b" can help teens acknowledge their mental health struggles.
Acknowledging anxiety or depression without stigmatization is often essential.
This piece does not seek to shame those with mental illnesses; instead, it serves to normalize emotional hardship.
However, not everyone shares this viewpoint.
Some feel that using terms like "many b" could diminish the seriousness of genuine mental health issues.
Normalizing mental illness could make it harder for those who require assistance to feel acknowledged.
@undiagnosedadhd9 Were actually so funny #mentyb #depresso #depressed #genz ♬ original sound - Anthony Voulgaris
How to React If Your Teen Mentions a "Menty B"
When your teen begins discussing having an inappropriate sexual encounter, this presents an excellent opportunity for deeper discussion. Here are a few essential tips from Dr. Caswell:
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Keep Calm and Listen: Parents often react too strongly when hearing that their teen has expressed distress, leading them down an irreconcilable path of communication breakdown. Instead of bombarding them with questions, give them time and space to share at their own pace.
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Offer Support, Not Advice: Teens sometimes require solutions - sometimes, they need someone to listen and support them. Caswell suggests asking your teen what would help instead of immediately offering solutions.
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Establish A Connection Through Acceptance: Acknowledging your teen's feelings without judgment is one way of building a connection and strengthening bonds between you and them. Hearing, "I understand why you feel that way," can make them feel supported.
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Teach Coping Skills: While normalizing emotions is necessary, teaching teens the tools needed to manage them is also key. Journaling, mindfulness, and physical activity can all provide useful outlets for processing their feelings.
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Show That You are a Safe Space: If your teen isn't yet comfortable opening up to you, respect their boundaries. Make yourself available if and when they need you; show that you provide nonjudgmental support.
When Should You Worry?
Though using "menty b" casually does not necessarily signify that their teenager is in crisis, parents should remain alert for signs.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one out of seven adolescents between 10-19 experience a mental health disorder.
Signs that your teen may be experiencing more significant difficulties with their mental health include:
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Extreme mood swings, irritability, or emotional outbursts
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Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or daily routines
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Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed
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Unexplained academic struggles
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Potential signs of substance abuse
The Importance of Mental Health Conversations
If you observe these behaviors alongside references to "menty b" and other stress-related expressions, it could be time for a more in-depth conversation regarding their well-being.
Mental Health Conversations Slang phrases such as "menty b" indicate that Gen Z has become more comfortable discussing mental health topics such as "menty b."
Research by the American Psychological Association (APA) indicates that Gen Z are more likely than any previous generation to discuss their mental health and seek professional assistance for it.
This change is positive.
Mental health was once seen as taboo; thanks to greater awareness, many young people feel more at ease expressing their emotions openly.
Francyne Zeltser, clinical director at Manhattan Psychology Group, believes this initiative marks a significant leap in connecting mental and physical wellness.
Conclusion
Terms like "menty b" represent how teens discuss and express their emotions today.
While the language may seem playful, its message remains serious.
Teenagers are becoming more open about their mental health challenges. Hence, as parents, we must support them when this occurs.
By remaining calm, providing support, and normalizing these conversations, you can offer a safe space for your teen to work through their emotions and seek assistance if needed.
If you ever feel uncertain of the issues your teenager is going through, don't be intimidated to consult a mental health expert.
Engaging teens early on in addressing these issues is critical to their emotional and psychological growth.
References
This article draws upon insights from Parents and Today's websites, providing invaluable perspectives on "menty b" and teenage mental health.
