Each child is different, and parents must adopt an approach that suits their child. Some of the helpful ways to deal with the mental health of the child are as follows:
A positive conversation can be started by asking the child how he/she feels and whether they want to share anything.
It is beneficial to tell the child that their parents are there for them during difficult times, and they can share their disturbing thoughts and feelings with them.
The child may be explained the importance of mental health and how it is also essential, just like our physical health.
If the child shares his/her feelings, they should be acknowledged. Even the smallest worries and concerns should be acknowledged. Phrases such as ‘what is a big deal?’ etc., should be avoided.
The child should be made comfortable enough to open up.
The parents should remain calm and not get agitated while the child is sharing their feelings. If the child sees that the parents are agitated, they may stop sharing their feelings
Parents should consider it normal to take their child for professional help. Stigma related to seeking professional help should be removed. Just like any other physical illness, seeking help for a mental illness should be considered normal.
The child should be encouraged to take help from a trained medical professional, and any myths related to mental illness should be cleared.
Parents can try to find out the real cause of emotional and .behavioral problems by talking to the child’s friends and teachers at school. For example, bullying or academic pressure at school may be a reason for the child's emotional distress, which may lead to disrupted behaviour.
Parents can also talk to the school teacher’s teacher and school counsellor and can share their concerns or inform them that the child is seeking professional help so that they can also monitor any changes in the behaviour or mood of the child. They can also help in identifying any external pressures which may be having a negative impact on the mental health of the child.
Talk therapy, where the child can talk openly to a trained professional, should be considered rather than giving anti-depressants as they may have side effects on the child's health.
Parents can be a part of support groups or may attend workshops for parents of children with a mental illness to be actively involved who may have similar concerns. This will help them to be more aware of any latest developments in the issue.
If a child talks about suicide or tries to hurt him/her or others, then immediate help must be taken.
Professional help should also be taken when the child’s emotional or behavioural difficulties last for a long time at home, school, with peers, etc.
Early identification and treatment can be very beneficial as it helps to address the problem early.
Parents should have the patience to deal with a child with a mental illness, as nobody can immediately take their child out of depression; it is a long-term process that requires love, care, and patience.
Parents should choose a mental health professional with expertise and experience in helping the child. They will also help to understand a child’s weaknesses and strengths and determine which treatment or therapy can be helpful.
Parents should be aware of the child’s disorder to understand the situation better. They can explore the internet, read books on mental health, and ask the doctor or the counsellor.
The child should be given a clear picture of the disorder, why it is happening, the symptoms of the disorder, etc.; their doubts should be cleared, and questions should be answered. If the child understands their mental illness better, they can recover early as they will know if their symptoms are worsening and when they need to ask for help.
As the parents cannot be with their child all the time, the teacher and the school counsellor should be aware of the red flags and, when it is an emergency, seek help.
If their symptoms worsen, consider changing their treatment, and help should be taken before the situation worsens. Also, whether the child is taking their medicines regularly or not should be monitored.
A child or a teenager faces many pressures and struggles in today’s challenging and competitive times; increasing their mental resilience can help them manage their emotions and bounce back into everyday life. Some of how mental resilience can be boosted are as follows
Exercising can be perfect for the mind and the body and helps release stress and anxiety. Parents should encourage their children to exercise daily or try different sports or activities they enjoy.
A healthy, balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and fibre can help in boosting energy and can promote clear thinking. Keeping the body hydrated by drinking lots of water can benefit the mind and the body.
If the child is uncomfortable talking, they should be encouraged to write down their thoughts and feelings as it gives them some understanding of what is going on in their mind.
Distraction techniques like reading a book, preparing food, etc., can help in distracting their mind.
Good sleep is essential for the body to get rest and reduce agitation. If they have difficulty sleeping, meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques, and listening to music in bed may help.
A toolkit can be prepared, which consists of all the items needed when the child is feeling low. It may have anything they like or give them a break from their thoughts, like their favourite book, magazine, games, chocolates, treats etc. It may also have specific notes for encouragement, photos of good times and happy memories.
The child should also be encouraged to open up to their friends, extended family or whomever they feel comfortable with.
The parents must take care of their physical and mental health. They should not blame themselves or others for the child's situation and should try to accept it. Parents may indulge in activities they enjoy or talk to a friend or family member who will understand their perspective. They may also collaborate with other parents in a similar situation.
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