Children’s Mental Health Week, now in its 10th year, is an important time to raise awareness and support for the mental well-being of children/young people AND their parents/caregivers.
As a counsellor working with children/young people, it is crucial to provide understanding, and a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings:
Emphasise the importance of mental health
Just like our physical health, it’s essential to take care of our mental health. We all have emotions, and it’s okay to talk about them.
Normalise feelings
It’s completely normal to feel a wide range of emotions. Sometimes, it’s ok not to be ok. What matters is how we deal with those feelings.
Encourage open communication
Their thoughts and feelings matter.
Highlight strengths and resilience
They are stronger and more resilient than they may realize. Exploring their strengths can help them to overcome challenges.
Coping strategies
Working with the child/young person to find healthy ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions; maybe through deep breathing, mindfulness, or talking about what’s on their mind.
A positive self-image
Celebrating their uniqueness, strengths and accomplishments.
Stigma
Seeking help for their mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s no shame in asking for support when they need it.
Support systems
Involving family, friends, or teachers in their conversations can be part of building their support network to make a positive difference to their lives.
Empowering through education
Understanding their thoughts and emotions can be empowering. With support, they can learn about how their minds work and develop strategies to navigate the challenges they face.
Self-care
Taking care of themselves is crucial. Exploring activities that bring them joy and relaxation and make them feel happy
Counselling is a support for the parents and carers of children and young people too:
Parenting challenges
Parenting and caring is a challenging journey, and it’s ok to face difficulties. Encountering bumps along the way is ok.
Open communication
Creating an open and safe environment for your child to express their thoughts and feelings can encourage them to share with you, knowing that you are there to listen without judgement.
Supportive
Supportive parenting can foster a strong sense of security and confidence in children and young people. Your words and actions contribute significantly to their mental well-being.
Communication
Effective communication is key. Listening actively, taking time to understand their perspective, and validating their feelings can strengthen your connection and build trust.
Resilience
COVID-19 lockdowns affected the mental health of children/young people in many ways and one of these is their resilience to cope with life. You can help your child develop resilience by acknowledging their strengths and encouraging them to face challenges. Building resilience is a lifelong skill that can positively impact mental health.
Stigma and seeking help
It’s important to break down the stigma around mental health. Trusting yourself, if you notice changes in your child’s behaviour or emotions, and seeking professional support is a proactive and positive step.
Self-care for parents
Taking care of your own mental health is crucial. As parents or carers, practicing self-care not only benefits you but also sets a positive example for your children. Let’s celebrate Children’s Mental Health Week (childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk) and ‘My Voice Matters’. Available resources include:
Children’s Mental Health week 2024 and Mental Health Awareness week 2024 – BBC Teach
Children’s Mental Health Week 2024: toolkit of resources: Mentally Healthy Schools Schools – Children’s Mental Health Week (childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk)
If this blog resonates with you, then please reach out to me via my contact me page.
