We live in a world that is constantly in a state of change. In our community, children experience daily challenges that affect their mental health and well-being. They are continuously presented with the opportunity to make choices, right or wrong, and the opportunity to learn about themselves and those around them. During this critical time, our precious children are learning their role in society and who they will become one day. They are very impressionable to outside influences, including social media, peer pressure, relationships, sports and school. Along this journey, they will experience thoughts and feelings that may seem overwhelming or other mental health concerns where they need our help and guidance. If this sounds like your child, know that you are not alone! There are ways that we can identify mental health concerns and provide care for our children to overcome these challenges.
First things first, when should we worry about mental health?
- Loss of interest in things our child usually loves or quitting something they enjoy
- Changes in sleep, weight, eating habits, or other everyday patterns
- Canceling/avoiding plans with closest friends, family, or community without explanation
- Academic struggles that are different, such as having difficulty in a subject that used to be easy
- Thoughts or worries that won’t leave them alone or that they cannot control
- A new set of friends that you have not met before
- Increase in use of social media rather than connection with in-person friends
- Refusing to talk about what is bothering them
- Signs of drugs, alcohol, or substance abuse
- Signs of self-harm, like cuts, burns, bruises that they cannot explain, or thoughts of self-harm with a plan
Now that we know how to recognize it, what can we do about it as parents?
- We can encourage open conversations with our children where we reserve judgment and make it a safe place for them to discuss issues
- De-stigmatize mental health by using positive, affirming language about how your child feels
- Share with them your own experience and how you feel/felt
- Join a support group for children and parents
- Get plenty of sleep and sunshine
- Limit social media to healthy use
- Enlist the help of your pediatrician for any concerns that arise or a mental health counselor
- Ask your child what fills their cup? This will help identify areas that give them accomplishment and fulfillment. Conversely, ask your child what takes from their cup? This will help you identify areas that cause more stress and are a burden to their mental health
- Suicidal thoughts or actions should NEVER be ignored. If your teen is in crisis right now, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text 'TALK" to 741741.
Most importantly, realize that we all have good days and bad days. Continue to proactively promote mental health and self-care for your child through ongoing conversations and check in with them along this journey. We are each given one beautiful mind to go through life, let’s nurture them together!
Written by: Madison Close, PGY-1 BayCare Pediatric Residency Program
Additional Resources:
Anxiety Resources from the Kids Mental Health Foundation
Depression and Sadness Resources from the Kids Mental Health Foundation
Teen Mental Health: How to Know When Your Child Needs Help
