Tips for supporting your child with their mental health

 **Collaborative Post**

AD: We currently live in a very fast-paced world that sometimes is overwhelming even for us adults, so can you imagine how our children and teens sometimes feel? Technology plays a huge role in how much information is spread across the world and how fast we can access things that can affect our moods. Unfortunately, whilst there are lots of benefits to being able to get online, as with everything, there are negative sides to children being so exposed to the online world, with it resulting in negative effects on their mental health. As a parent, it is vital that you pay close attention to your child’s mental health alongside their physical as things can easily be missed in young children and be excused as mood swings, growth spurts, and other "growing up" symptoms when really something more serious is wrong. 

Continue reading for some top tips for supporting your child with their mental health, as advised by this senior school in Wolverhampton.

Keep communication open

One of the main reasons that children fall into spells of anxiety or deep depression, is because they struggle to find safe spaces to discuss their feelings without being judged. As your child’s parent, it is important that you provide them with this safe space, as it will support their mental health in many ways. Encourage open communication by actively listening to what they have to say without judging them or brushing their worries to the side. Reassure your child you are a safe space, that they can talk to you privately and you won't divulge that information without their consent. Regular conversations about emotions can also help to normalise discussions about mental health. Don't shy away from sharing your own feelings and experiences to demonstrate that it is okay to express emotions.

Create a healthy routine

Establishing a healthy routine is key to maintaining stability and a sense of security, something that those who suffer from stress and anxiety yearn for in their life for feelings of balance. Ensure your child has an adequate amount of sleep every night and is consuming nutritious food throughout the day. Along with this, try and limit screen time and encourage them to spend time outdoors, taking part in physical activities. Create a routine you are all happy with and try to explain the benefits of it to your child. If they know "why" they may be more invested in sticking to it. 

Compromise

As with most things in life, there is often some degree of compromise. Of course, there are some things as parents we simply cannot compromise on, most importantly keeping our children safe. However, when it comes to decisions for smaller things like picking their lunch, their own clothes, their own hobbies, days out or even their own hair cut can all make our children feel more important, more listened to, and happier making their own choices. Whilst it can take some getting used to, saying No less is actually quite liberating. Next time your child asks to do something, instead of saying no, try saying yes, or coming up with a compromise, it will mean everyone feels more listened to and respecting whilst is always a good sign when it comes to your mental health. 

Remember, supporting your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Whilst these are practices you should take on regularly, be sure to seek professional help if your child’s struggles are severe.

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