How to Help Your Child with Mental Health

Evelia Saucedo, AMFT

Building a solid relationship with your children is essential, just as important for your children to have strong relationships with others. Other responsibilities will sometimes get in the way of spending time with your children; it is crucial to find the time and space to spend some time together, even during breakfast or dinner. Building the presence around your child will make a significant impact in helping them feel confident and develop resilience, according to caringforkids.cps.ca (2021).  

How will spending time develop their self-confidence? Spending time with your children, actively listening to them and their overall needs will show love, affection, and care. Your children will be able to identify love and care. It is also essential for you to show interest in what they do and actively listen to them. Listening is not just hearing what they say, if not understanding the message underneath their words. What are they trying to tell you? Children need to be heard, not judged; sometimes, it is good to listen and know when to give feedback. When they need praise, then praise them. When they need to be heard, listen to them. When they have strong emotions, learn to give them their space and talk to them when appropriate (after cooling down). Help them set goals and if they don’t know how to set goals, teach them. Remember that your children will learn from you. So… how can you help your child with mental health? By providing support, listen, give love/affection, guide them to understand, and nurture them.