GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — As West Michigan students get ready to head back to school, many parents and teachers are concerned about mental health and making sure kids are supported. 

Dr. Nick Allen, a professor of clinical psychology at the University of Oregon, said many adolescents were struggling with mental health before the pandemic. He said the last two years have exacerbated the issues.

Allen said it’s important for parents to start a conversation and talk to their kids about their concerns.

For the full conversation with Dr. Nick Allen, watch the video in the player above.