How to Help your Child's Mental Health

We often only perceive mental health as being something of importance for teens and adults but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Children can often struggle with many different challenges. It is best that we are supportive with our child through any mental state. 

Talk about their Feelings

When you let your child know the feelings are something that are open for discussion you help your child feel supported. They are also much more likely to open up to you about what they may be experiencing at school or in life in general. By talking to your shield about their day and asking questions such as “How did that make you feel?” help the child feel seen and heard by you. Sometimes just offering support can be more beneficial than jumping in to help. 

Talk about your Own feelings

When you are feeling overwhelmed or upset by something children can often tell even without you telling them how you are feeling. This is a good opportunity to tell them that you might be feeling sad or down. Especially when there is something scary going on in the world, this is a good time to talk to your child about the significance of the event. 

This form of communication can be healthy for a child to see you process something that is upsetting is a healthy way. 

Take a pause from Technology

Make sure your child sees that taking breaks from technology can be incredibly beneficial for mental health and wellbeing. You can do this by setting a good example for your child, make sure your child sees you walk away from your phone sometimes when you need a break. Limiting your child's screen time is good for them but suggest putting the phone down and going on a long walk with them.