As a parent, it is important to always be a strong support system for your family and this includes supporting your child’s mental health. Children face many hurdles during their young age. These could be starting a new school, making new friends, all whilst trying to figure who they are along the way.
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Mental health issues are also one that they may face, one in which they may not even understand they are experiencing which is why it is vital that parents do their best to support their child as much as they can when it comes to it.
Supporting your child’s mental health
Here are some top tips on how to get started:
One of the first things to do, is to set a great example within the household. Children learn from what they see, so set yourself to become a person they can acquire skills from. Modelling healthy coping mechanisms to common hardships will help your child deal with problems much easier. Allowing them to take part in activities that relieve stress and anxiety can also be a fantastic way to ensure they understand how to cope better.
Keeping an eye out for changes in behaviour is not only vital, but one of the most difficult. It is difficult to keep eyes on your child 24/7, especially when you have more than one on your hands. Understand that developmental changes will naturally bring about a switch in behaviour but isn’t the only reason for it. Long periods of isolation can be a sign that something isn’t right. Check in on them regularly and let them know you are there for support.
Give them a solid routine as uncertainty can lead to anxiety in many individuals. Be vocal about how the situation is going to unfold and what is expected of them.
Tell them how much you love and appreciate them and that anything they are dealing with will pass with time and it won’t last forever. Emotional support is crucial, especially when your child reaches a point where they start to shut themselves off from the world.
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