Do you worry about how your son or daughter can handle today’s mental health issues?
Mental health problems are common in children and teens.
It is best to notice a problem early on and get treatment to support your child.
Signs Your Child Is Struggling
Mental health problems affect thinking, emotions, and behavior. Parents, teachers, and coaches can help identify early signs of mental health issues. Here are some signs that you can look for:
- Is feeling very sad or withdrawn.
- Displays severe mood swings.
- Shows big changes in behavior.
- Has problems in friendships and other relationships.
- Have a sudden overwhelming fear or worry that does not match the situation.
- Seems unusually irritable.
- Displays explosive anger.
- Has trouble sleeping.
- Changes their eating habits.
- Loses weight.
- Spends so much time alone that it gets in the way of doing other activities.
- Is taking new risks, like using drugs or alcohol.
- Has lots of stomachaches or headaches.
- Avoids school and stops doing as well as they used to in school.
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health
1. Talk to your children: One of the most important things a parent can do is to talk to their children about their problems. Do not bombard your son or daughter with endless questions and do not get argumentative. Establish some dialogue with your children so they will be willing to talk with you.
2. Education is key: Your children should be familiar with the issues of bullying, suicide, addiction, and other mental health issues. Teach them about the importance of self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and healthy coping skills. Encourage them to set boundaries, prioritize their well-being, and where to go for help.
3. Watch for any red flags: If you notice any changes in your teenager’s moods or behaviors, discuss these changes with your son or daughter. If things get serious, talk to a counselor for some advice. Do not assume that your teenager is going through a phase or that they will snap out of it.
4. Encourage your children to talk: Many teenagers are reluctant to talk to their parents because they are afraid their parents will get angry and take it out on them. Some teenagers may think their parents won’t be able to understand their situation. Establish a sense of trust with your teenager and encourage them to come to you when they are struggling.
5. Listen to your children: It’s important to show your child that you are listening so that they feel heard. Put your phone down and make eye contact. Take the conversation slowly, letting your child’s words sink in. Do not downplay your children’s concerns and don’t judge them. Avoid potential arguments that could cause additional problems.
6. Spend time together: This can involve eating meals together, taking walks, exploring nature, helping with homework, or picking up a shared hobby. Invest some time in getting to know your child’s friends and interests, as these are important parts of their life. If you’re involved in your child’s day-to-day life, it’ll be easier for them to talk to you.
7. Communicate with your child’s school: Schools have a wealth of resources available to support social-emotional learning. The classroom teacher may reach out to you when they notice changes in your child’s attention, focus or response to other students. Schools have support personnel in place, such as social workers, therapists and counselors.
8. See things from your children’s perspective: Many parents engage their children from their own point of view. Try to see things from your teenager’s perspective when dealing with their problems. Once you see things from their perspective, you will be better able to get your teenager some help.
9. Let them know they are supported: For a child, one of the most important things you can provide is an environment where they know they are loved. Make sure your child knows that they are supported no matter what they do. This will increase their feelings of security and safety.
10. Teach your kids to be resilient: Resilience is an important skill for teens to learn. Reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. Encourage your children to look at failure as a learning opportunity and offer guidance on problem-solving and decision-making. Encourage your kids to be persistent in accomplishing their goals.
11. Manage your children’s social media: Parents can work with their children to create healthy digital habits and encourage moderation in its use. Discussing the negative effects of social media with children and teens can help manage future problems. It is important to manage the time that your children spend on social media.
12. Get advice from other parents: Communicate with other parents to see how they talk to their children. You may get some helpful insights into how to deal with difficult people. There are many parents who have dealt with their children’s mental health, and they can give you additional advice that you may not have thought of.
Where To Find Help for Your Child
•Mental health organizations, hotlines, and libraries.
•Professionals such as the child’s pediatrician or school counselor.
•Other families in the community.
•Family network organizations.
•Community-based psychiatric care.
•Crisis outreach teams.
•Education or special education services.
•Family resource centers and support groups.
•Health services.
•Protection and advocacy groups and organizations
Parents are usually the first to recognize that their child has a problem with emotions or behavior. The first step is to gently talk to your child. An honest open talk about feelings can often help. Parents may choose to consult with your child’s physicians, teachers, and other adults who can help.
Don’t wait for something to happen. If your child is struggling, reach out for help sooner rather than later. Mental health conditions can worsen over time, so early intervention is a critical part of supporting a child with mental health issues and preventing long term effects.
Trained mental health providers can help your child, and your family enjoy fuller, happier lives. With love, supportive actions, and outside resources, your family can have healthier relationships.
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