Protecting Mental Health During Childhood

Presented by BetterHelp.

While it may be difficult to think about, people of virtually any age may experience symptoms of a mental health condition. This includes kids. However, there are ways that you can protect the mental health of your little ones, which could offer them the best chance. Here are aspects to pay attention to.

Take Care of Your Health

One of the best ways for you to be able to promote wellness for your children is to take care of your health. This includes getting as much sleep as you can, eating healthy foods, and exercising. If you feel like you have too much stress, anxiety, or are experiencing symptoms related to a physical or mental health condition, it may be a good idea to visit with a doctor, so you can get the treatment you need.

When you take care of yourself, your children will notice, and it will allow you to be present when it comes to interacting with them.

You can learn more about childhood at BetterHelp. There are articles to read that may help.

Be Supportive

You should also do your best to be supportive. Talk to your kids as much as you can and address their concerns when they come up. When it is possible, give them your undivided attention when it seems like they would like your help with a problem or must get something off their chest.

This can be difficult, since you are likely busy much of the time, but your children must be aware that you are there to support them. It will be necessary to show them your love and support at all times. Also, this can help your kids understand that they are a part of the family, and as a unit, you respect and care about each other.

Let Them Make Mistakes

There are times when your child will mess up or act in a manner that is inappropriate. When this happens, you can tell them what they have done wrong, but instead of yelling or fussing at them, it may be more worthwhile to ask them what happened and what they should have done differently.

In other words, scolding your kid can make them feel bad about themselves or hide subsequent behaviors, but allowing them to work through issues and solve problems when they make mistakes, can promote learning.

Take Care of Their Physical Needs

Do your best to care for your children’s physical needs. Make sure they are visiting their pediatrician for checkups, eating healthy meals and snacks, sleeping enough hours each night, and going outside to play a few times a week. These things can play a role in regulating a child’s moods and may even help them lessen stress and anxiety when they experience it.

Encourage Friendships

You should also encourage friendships. Arrange sleepovers or plan outings where your little ones can spend time with their friends. If they have trouble making friends, talk to other parents in the area that you know and trust, and you may be able to schedule a playdate, where your child can interact with potential new friends.

Get Needed Support

If you ever suspect that your kid needs mental health support, be sure that you reach out to a therapist when it is necessary. A couple of things to watch for, which can let you know when your child may need to see a therapist are if their behavior changes seemingly overnight, and whenever they don’t show any interest in things that they used to love. These can clue you in that there may be a problem.

You can discuss any issues with your child’s doctor, who might be able to offer a recommendation for a counselor that will be well-suited to treat your child. It may also be a good idea to talk to parents or family members about this topic, if you are aware that their kids have attended therapy as well. They should be able to provide tips or talk to you about how to find a qualified doctor.

Conclusion

There are many issues that you may be concerned about when it comes to your little ones, including keeping them healthy and safe. The good news is that there are many ways to protect their mental health, which might also  be able to encourage their physical health. Be sure to take care of your physical needs, their physical needs, and talk to a therapist if you feel like something is amiss.

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