How do I help my teenager talk about feeling left out online? 

Parenting Perspective 

Reassure Them Their Feelings Are Normal 

Many teenagers feel left out when they see friends chatting in a group chat, sharing photos from a gathering they were not invited to, or commenting on each other’s posts. Even if they seem confident, these hidden feelings can weigh heavily on their heart and lead to quiet resentment or sadness. You can start by reassuring your teenager that feeling left out sometimes is normal, even if it feels sharp inside. Use gentle words: ‘It hurts to feel like you are not part of something. It does not mean you are not loved or valued.’ 

Create Safe Moments to Talk 

Create safe moments to talk without judgement. Instead of asking directly, try gentle questions like, ‘Did anything online make your heart feel heavy today?’ or, ‘Did you see anything that made you feel excluded?’ Listen fully and avoid saying things like, ‘Just ignore it.’ Acknowledge their pain: ‘I understand why that stings.’ Help your teen to think about whether they want to speak to a friend about it, take a short social media break, or plan something fun offline instead. Praise them for sharing such a vulnerable feeling with you. Remind them that friendships online can feel bigger than they really are, and that their real worth is never measured by who tags them in a post. Over time, these honest chats will help your teenager to trust that you are a safe place to lay down their worries. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that our value is not decided by other people’s invitations or attention; it is measured by our connection with Allah Almighty and our sincerity in our deeds. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 139: 

‘And do not weaken (seeing the strength of the opposition), and do not grieve (for those of passed away as martyrs); and ultimately you will prevail, if you are (true) believers.‘

Share this with your teenager to remind them that even when they feel left out, they remain honoured and loved by Allah Almighty. 

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

‘Dua is worship.‘

Encourage your teen to make a quiet Dua when they feel left out: ‘Ya Allah, help my heart feel full and hopeful.’ This small habit turns hidden sadness into trust and hope. By showing them that they can talk openly with you and turn to Allah Almighty at the same time, you help your teenager remember that no online moment decides their worth; their value is safe with the One who knows their heart best.