Tips and Strategies on How to Talk to Your Child About Mental Health

As parents, we want to protect our children from harm and ensure their well-being. But when it comes to mental health, many of us struggle to start conversations about it with our children. Talking about mental health can feel uncomfortable or even taboo, but it is a crucial conversation to have in order to support our children's emotional and psychological well-being.

In this post, we will discuss tips and strategies for talking to your child about mental health in a safe and supportive way. We will explore how to create a safe environment for discussion, communicate in age-appropriate ways, share your own experiences, and know when to seek professional help.

Understanding Mental Health

Before we dive into strategies for talking to your child about mental health, let's first establish what we mean by "mental health." Mental health refers to our overall emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and behave. Mental health concerns can range from mild to severe and can impact children and adults alike.

Common mental health concerns in children include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioural disorders. It is important to seek help for mental health issues, just as you would for physical health issues. Talking about mental health openly and without stigma can help reduce shame and encourage children to seek help when they need it.

Creating a Safe Environment for Discussion

When talking to your child about mental health, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for discussion. Here are some tips for creating this environment:

1. Choose a quiet and private location: Find a space where you and your child can talk without interruptions or distractions.
2. Set aside dedicated time: Make sure you have enough time to have a conversation without feeling rushed or pressured.
3. Practice active listening: When your child is speaking, give them your full attention. This means avoiding distractions such as your phone or the TV.
4. Avoid judgment: Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Avoid phrases like "You shouldn't feel that way" or "That's not a big deal."
5. Be supportive: Let your child know that you are there to support them and help them find resources if needed.

Age-Appropriate Communication

Communicating about mental health with children of different ages can be challenging. Here are some guidelines for discussing mental health with children of different ages:

Young Children (ages 0-5)

1. Use simple language to describe emotions and feelings
2. Encourage your child to talk about their feelings
3. Use books or stories to help explain emotions

Elementary School Children (ages 6-12)

1. Talk about the difference between "good" and "bad" stress
2. Encourage your child to talk about their worries and fears
3. Teach your child relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness

Teenagers (ages 13-18)

1. Discuss specific mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression
2. Encourage your child to seek help if they are struggling
3. Discuss ways to cope with stress such as exercise, talking to friends, or journaling

Discussing Your Own Mental Health

Sharing your own experiences with mental health can help your child feel less alone and more comfortable talking about their own mental health. Here are some tips for sharing your story:

1. Be honest: Share your experiences in a truthful and honest way. Don't minimize your struggles or exaggerate them.
2. Share what helped you: Talk about what helped you cope with your mental health concerns such as therapy or medication.
3. Address potential concerns: If you are worried about how your child will react, talk to them about your concerns before sharing your story.

Knowing When to Seek Help

Finally, it is important to know when to seek professional help for your child's mental health. Here are some signs that your child may need professional help:

1. Persistent sadness or hopelessness
2. Irritability or anger that seems out of proportion to the situation
3. Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
4. Changes in sleeping or eating habits
5. Withdrawing from friends and activities they once enjoyed
6. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. You can start by talking to your child's pediatrician, school counsellor, or family doctor. They can provide a referral to a mental health professional who specializes in working with children and adolescents.

There are also several resources available in Canada for parents seeking mental health support for their children. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) offers resources and information for parents on children's mental health. Kids Help Phone provides 24/7 confidential support and counselling for children and teenagers.

Another resource is Archways Centre for CBT, which provides evidence-based cognitive and behavioural therapies across the lifespan. Archways Centre for CBT offers specialized services for children and youth, including therapy for anxiety, depression, and behavioural concerns. Their team of experienced therapists utilizes evidence-based approaches to help children and youth develop coping skills and reduce symptoms of mental health concerns. If you're seeking support for your child's mental health, Archways Centre for CBT is a resource worth considering.

Conclusion

As a parent, it can be challenging to talk to your child about mental health. However, it is an essential conversation to have to ensure their emotional and psychological well-being. By creating a safe and supportive environment, communicating in age-appropriate ways, sharing your own experiences, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can help your child develop healthy coping skills and reduce the stigma around mental health. 

Remember, there are many resources available in Canada for parents seeking mental health support for their children, including Archways Centre for CBT, which provides evidence-based cognitive and behavioural therapies across the lifespan. Seeking help for mental health concerns is a sign of strength and can make a significant difference in your child's life. Let's start the conversation today and prioritize our children's mental health.