“Crashing Out” on Social Media: What Parents and Teens Need to Know
Lately, I have noticed a growing trend on TikTok called “crashing out.” These are videos in which young people share what appears to be a public emotional breakdown, sometimes genuine and sometimes staged, as a means of expressing their feelings. On the surface, these clips can feel raw and authentic, and for some teens, it may even feel validating to see others go through similar struggles.
As a psychologist who works with many parents and teenagers, I would like to share my perspective on this trend. While I deeply value honesty and openness around emotions, I also worry about what happens when emotional dysregulation is normalized, without teaching healthy ways to cope.
For teens, seeing “crashing out” videos sends a confusing message: Is this how I should handle big feelings? Is this the only way to be seen or understood? Emotional expression is important—but it is equally important to develop tools that help regulate emotions in a safe, supportive way.
For parents, these trends are alarming. You may wonder if your teen is engaging with this type of content or even posting it themselves. My advice is to approach the topic with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask your teen what they think about these videos, how they feel when they watch them, and whether they relate to the idea of “crashing out.” These conversations can open the door to discussing healthier ways of coping with BIG feelings, such as mindfulness, journaling, exercise, or talking through difficult emotions with a trusted confidant.
If you are a parent and notice your teen engaging with or talking about this trend, here are some ways to respond:
Stay curious, not judgmental. Ask them what they think about these videos instead of shutting down the conversation.
Model regulation. Teens watch how the adults in their lives handle stress, so show them healthy ways to deal with stressful situations. such as grounding, pausing, and labeling feelings in real-time.
Offer alternatives. Encourage journaling, art, movement, or private voice notes as safe places to express big feelings.
Validate, then guide. Acknowledge that their feelings are real, then gently steer them toward healthier coping strategies.
Know when to seek help. If your teen’s emotional outbursts feel overwhelming or unsafe, therapy can provide skills and support.
Social media is known for amplifying extremes, but what our teens need most is balance. By helping them learn that emotions are valid and can be managed constructively, we give them the tools to navigate stress, sadness, or overwhelm without feeling like a public breakdown is the only option.
If you notice your teen struggling with intense emotions, whether they’re “crashing out” online or just shutting down at home, they may need extra support. Therapy provides a safe space to process these feelings and develop stronger coping skills that last long after a viral trend has passed.
