Recent research indicates that mental health issues in children and adolescents are on the increase. One in four children reports that they are clinically depressed, while the rate of emergency department visits due to attempted suicide has increased 22 percent over the last few years.
We have worked with thousands of caregivers over the years, and many have asked how they can support and understand their child’s mental wellbeing wellbeing.
We have outlined a guide that will help you recognize the signs of mental distress in children and teens and respond with resources and support to promote recovery and resilience.
Identify signs of distress
Signs of mental distress may vary from one child or adolescent to another.
Mental health is a topic that should be discussed openly. It helps normalize the discussion and lets children and teens know they can come to you if they need help. (Shutterstock)
drastic and sustained changes in children and teenagers are not. Caregivers should look out for:
- Increased distress, such as increased sadness or irritability.
- Changes in daily functioning, such as sleep, eating habits, physical activity levels, and interest, can impact peer relationships, family relationships, extracurricular activities, or academic performance.
Mental health is important to children.
We encourage parents to talk about mental health with their children and teens early and often, regardless of whether they are struggling. It normalizes the conversation and helps children and teens know they can come to you if they’re working.
It is important to have conversations with children and adolescents who appear to be struggling. Start by showing them that you care. Then, please point out any changes you’ve observed, like a change in the way they behave or their level of distress. You can ask them if they have noticed the same changes. Then, you could invite them to a deeper conversation.
Try the third-person strategy if this strategy doesn’t seem to work, or you get “fine” answers when you ask your child, “how are you feeling?”. This can help reduce anxiety in tense situations.
Make a general statement about the mental health of children, like “I’ve heard that a lot kids and teens are struggling right now with their mental wellbeing wellbeing,” and ask open-ended questions such as, “What do you think?” or “What have you noticed recently about your mental health?”
Ask your child to take a walk to start a conversation about mental health if they find it difficult to talk to you face to face. (Shutterstock)
Try to minimize any discomfort that may arise when you talk about mental health issues with your child or teenager. Find a time when your child is most comfortable, when they are relaxed, rested, and fed.
Some children also find it difficult to talk about their mental health in person. You can ask your child to take a walk, or you can start the conversation when you’re doing something else, like loading the dishwasher or driving to a sports event. It can reduce the stress of what could be perceived as stressful conversations.
If children or adolescents open up to you, show empathy by using phrases like “that sounds difficult” and ‘I understand how painful it can be.’ We often want to solve problems, but we should listen to them and validate their feelings.
Resilience can be fostered in difficult times by communicating and connecting with young children and teens, as well as reassuring them of our support.
Empathy is the ability to understand what children and teenagers are experiencing. This video explains empathy and sympathy.
Teachers and students can talk together.
You can speak to their guidance counselor or teacher if you are still concerned. Around 80 percent of children learn about mental health in school. The guidance counselors have been trained to discuss mental health concerns, and the other staff at school are used to talking about mental health issues with students. Caregivers usually welcome these conversations.
Teachers can provide valuable insight into how a child’s mental health has changed and what may have triggered these changes. Children may not have told you about their learning difficulties or bullying, but are still causing them distress. Teachers and guidance counselors can brainstorm ways to help children develop coping skills and support their success in school.
As much as possible, let your child participate in these discussions so that they can feel a part of the discussion and gain a sense of agency when it comes to their mental health.
Speak with your healthcare provider.
The health care providers are well-trained to evaluate both mental and physical problems. They can screen for mental health issues by asking caregivers and children about changes in mood and behavior.
Providers of health care can provide strategies and resources that will help children and their caregivers. (Shutterstock)
This knowledge will allow healthcare providers to offer resources and strategies that support both children and their caregivers. They will consult with children and caregivers to determine the best ways to address the mental health challenges of the child.
Children and adolescents should also be informed of the other support services available to them, including Kids’ Help Phone. This service is available 24/7 via text message or telephone.
Address mental health issues immediately.
Children and adolescents can use the strategies listed above even if they are not in immediate harm. When your child is exhibiting warning signs or self-harming behaviors, you should get them as much help as possible.
