How to support your child’s mental health: practical tips for parents
Image: A teenage girl looking out of the window with a sad expression.
As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child’s mental health. Here are practical strategies to help children manage stress, anxiety, and emotions, as well as signs to watch for and when to seek professional help.
Encourage open communication
One of the most effective ways to support your child’s mental health is by fostering open and honest communication. Let your child know they can talk to you about their feelings without fear of judgement. Make time for regular conversations, ask open-ended questions, and listen actively. By creating a safe space, your child will feel more comfortable sharing their worries and emotions.
Help them develop healthy coping mechanisms
Teaching children how to handle stress and anxiety in a healthy way can prevent problems from escalating. Encourage activities such as:
Physical exercise
Regular movement, whether it’s playing a sport, dancing, or simply going for a walk, helps reduce stress and boosts your mood.
Creative expression
Drawing, writing, music, or other creative outlets allow children to process their emotions constructively.
Relaxation techniques
Deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation can help children manage anxiety and stay calm in stressful situations.
Promote a balanced lifestyle
A well-balanced routine contributes to better mental health.
Ensure your child:
- Gets enough sleep, as rest is essential for emotional regulation
- Eats a nutritious diet to support brain function and mood stability
- Has a healthy balance of schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and downtime to prevent burnout
- Spends time outdoors, as fresh air and nature can have a calming effect.
Be aware of warning signs
Understanding the signs of mental health struggles can help you intervene early.
Watch for:
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating or a decline in academic performance
- Frequent headaches, stomach aches, or other physical complaints with no medical explanation
- Expressions of hopelessness, excessive worry, or talk of self-harm
If you notice these signs persisting, it is essential to take them seriously and offer support.
Know when to seek professional help
Sometimes, professional intervention is necessary. If your child’s mental health concerns are affecting their daily life, consider reaching out to:
- A school counsellor or teacher for guidance
- Your GP or paediatrician to discuss concerns and potential referrals
- A therapist or psychologist who specialises in children’s mental health.
Seeking help is not a sign of failure but a proactive step towards your child’s wellbeing. Early support can make a significant difference in their emotional resilience and overall happiness.
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Exams are often a source of stress for young people. And after two years of academic disruption due to the pandemic, many will be experiencing them for the first time this summer. -
Young people are struggling with their mental health not least in the wake of the pandemic, with reports that mental health problems now affect 1 in 6 children and young people compared to 1 in 9 in 2017.*
