How can I support my teenager who says, ‘I feel empty’? 

Parenting Perspective 

Listen Without Panic 

Hearing your teenager say, ‘I feel empty,’ can be painful and worrying. This feeling often arises when they feel disconnected from friends, family, or even themselves. It may not mean they are doing something wrong; it can simply mean they are growing, questioning, and feeling overwhelmed. Start by showing your teen that you will not dismiss or panic about what they share. Use calm words: ‘Thank you for telling me. Feeling empty can be scary, but it does not mean you are alone.’ 

Help Them ‘Refill Their Heart Tank’ 

Gently ask when this feeling comes up most. Is it after using screens for hours, feeling left out, or lying awake at night? Help them to name what might sit underneath the emptiness: boredom, sadness, or loneliness. You can offer small ways to refill their ‘heart tank’, such as spending time in nature, moving their body, sitting together with no pressure to talk, or doing small acts of kindness for someone else. Remind them that feeling empty does not mean they have nothing to offer; it means they are longing for real connection. Praise them for sharing such a raw feeling with you. Over time, these small conversations help your teen to trust that this emptiness is not a failure, but a sign that their heart is ready for growth. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that when we feel empty, we can turn that space into an invitation to connect with Allah Almighty, who never leaves our hearts hollow. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ra’ad (13), Verse 28: 

‘…Indeed, it is only with the remembrance of Allah (Almighty) that one can (and does) find peace of mind and heart.’ 

Share this with your teenager to show that feeling empty can become a doorway to hope and closeness to Allah Almighty. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 3372, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Dua is worship.’ 

Encourage your teenager to make a simple Dua when emptiness feels heavy: ‘Ya Allah, fill my heart with peace and meaning.’ This small prayer reminds them that what feels empty to them is always known and held by Allah Almighty. By staying close, listening without judgement, and weaving in gentle reminders of faith, you help your teenager to see that even in their emptiness, they are never alone; their heart is safe with you and fully seen by the One who created it.