Empower Kids’ Mental Health: Take Action Today

Empower Kids’ Mental Health: Take Action Today

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be easy to overlook, forget or even ignore the silent daily struggles that many children face. In between the laughter, play, homework, and routine, many children battle mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day was created to spotlight these profoundly impactful issues. 

What & When Is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day?

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is observed annually in May. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and recognizing children’s mental health and well-being. Since its conception in 2009, this day has raised awareness and advocated for better support for children struggling with mental health issues.

The statistics surrounding children’s mental health are sobering. Approximately 1 in 6 children in the United States experiences a mental disorder in a given year, according to the  CDC. These disorders range from ADHD and anxiety to more severe conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. Despite the prevalence of children’s mental health battles, stigma and misconceptions still surrounding mental health treatment prevent many children from receiving the help they need.

Education is one of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day’s critical points of awareness. To help children in need of mental health care, it is essential to raise awareness and equip parents, caregivers, educators, and communities with the knowledge and resources required to properly address and respond to mental health struggles in children. 

Another vital point of awareness is to remove the stigma around mental health conversations. Children need to feel safe and heard when opening their hearts to discuss their emotions and struggles. Fostering open dialogue and a safe environment helps children learn to seek help when struggling without being judged or shamed.

Early prevention is key to preserving a child’s future well-being.

Highlighting preventative measures are also crucial. Things like regular exercise, proper diet, and adequate sleep are ways to help prevent or lessen mental health symptoms in children. Parents, guardians, and teachers can also help by teaching children resilience-building activities and coping skills that help them better learn how to navigate and react to life’s challenges.

Another key aspect of helping children in their mental health journey is nurturing a supportive environment at home and in schools. Caring adults, whether parents, guardians, teachers, mentors, or others, can have a profound impact on a child’s mental health. These kinds of relationships help buffer children against the negative side effects of life’s stresses and adversities. 

Here are five actionable steps we can all take to support children’s mental health:

1. Talk About Emotions: Encourage an environment where children feel safe and valued expressing their emotions and struggles. Foster open and non-judgmental communication at home, in school, and wherever our children spend their time.  Actively listen to children’s concerns and validate their feelings, creating space for them to articulate their thoughts and emotions freely.

1. Prioritize Self-Care: Kids model their behavior based on your behavior. By prioritizing healthy self-care practices, you will help them envision a future where they do the same. Emphasize the importance of regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and, if you can, incorporate mindfulness techniques. Demonstrate self-compassion and stress management strategies, teaching children how to cultivate resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Take the initiative to educate yourself and others about children’s mental health. Stay informed about common mental health issues affecting children, signs and symptoms to watch for, and available resources for support. Dispel misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health through open discussions and education within your social circles.

1. Build Supportive Relationships: Cultivate nurturing and supportive relationships with children in your life. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, teacher, mentor, or family member, prioritize building trust and fostering a sense of safety and belonging. Healthy relationships serve as a protective buffer against the negative impacts of stress and adversity.

1. Seek Professional Help When Needed: Recognize when a child may require professional support, and don’t hesitate to seek help from mental health professionals. If you notice persistent changes in behavior, mood disturbances, or difficulties functioning, consult with a therapist or counselor. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children facing mental health challenges.

As we observe National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, join us in recommitting to prioritizing our children’s mental health and well-being. By raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and advocating for better support systems, we can create a brighter and healthier future for all children.

If you or someone you know has a child or teen in need of support in this area, we encourage you to reach out to us at  clientcare@nashvillepsych.com  or give us a call at  (615) 582-2882. If we are not a fit, we are happy to help guide you in the right direction.