Feb 9, 2024 8:17:42 AM | Mental Wellbeing Supporting Children's Mental Health: 5 Simple Ways to Make a Difference

Discover the importance of supporting children's mental health and learn five simple ways you can make a positive difference in their lives.

Understanding Children's Mental Health Week 2024

Children's Mental Health Week is an annual event in the UK that aims to raise awareness about the importance of children's mental health and promote positive mental well-being.   It provides an opportunity for parents, educators, and communities to come together and support children in maintaining good mental health.   First launched in the UK in 2015, it was established in response to the growing concern about the mental health issues faced by children and young people. Since then, it has become an annual event that continues to gain recognition and support from various organisations, schools, and individuals across the country.

The week serves as a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health and should be prioritized from an early age. It aims to educate and empower children, parents, and educators to recognise the signs of mental health issues and take appropriate action

During this week, various activities and events are organized to engage children and help them understand the importance of mental health. The goal of events, workshops and talks held this week every February, is to create a safe and inclusive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and seeking support.

Statistics on the Increase in Mental Health Issues among 6-16 Year Olds

Over the years, there has been a significant increase in mental health issues among children and adolescents aged 6 to 16 in the UK.  According to recent statistics, 4 in 10 of children in this age group experience mental health symptoms of low mood, anxiety and depression. This alarming rise in mental health issues highlights the need for early intervention and support.

Factors such as academic pressure, social media influence, and family dynamics can also contribute to the development of mental health problems in children. It is crucial to be aware of these statistics and take proactive steps to address the underlying causes and provide appropriate support.

The Importance of Children's Mental Health

Children's mental health plays a vital role in their overall well-being and future success. When children have good mental health, they are more likely to thrive academically, build positive relationships, and develop essential life skills. On the other hand, untreated mental health issues can have long-lasting effects on their emotional, social, and cognitive development.

By prioritizing children's mental health, we can create a supportive environment that fosters their emotional resilience, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms. It is essential to recognize that mental health is not a taboo subject but a crucial aspect of a child's overall health and happiness.

Simple Ways to Support Children's Mental Health

1. Foster open communication:

The more we can talk and communicate with our children, the easier it is to pick up on mental health concerns that may show up.  Encourage children to express their feelings and thoughts without judgment. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable talking about their emotions.  Have an emotions chart or cards and take turns sharing your emotions to model healthy expression.  There are many wonderful resources online and helpful tips and videos such as this one https://www.amh.org.uk/help-your-child-open-up-and-talk-about-feelings-and-emotions/  and https://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/development/intellectual/list-of-emotions-to-talk-about-with-kids/ on Parent.com.

2. Teach coping strategies:

Help children develop healthy coping mechanisms such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, or engaging in hobbies they enjoy.  Bubble breathing is wonderful for younger children and there are a number of free videos you can use to share such as this one from Twinkl.  Meditation apps also now have wonderful guided meditations and mindfulness for children. 

3. Promote physical activity:

Regular exercise has a positive impact on mental health and is a great way to release stress built up  in our bodies. Encourage children to engage in physical activities they enjoy, such as sports, dancing, or yoga.  Or take up a family activity that you can all do together.  Whether walking in nature each weekend or doing a park run, playing badminton, tennis or going swimming.  All of these activities are great for our mental wellbeing. 

4. Set boundaries with technology:

We know how addictive and harmful excessive screen time is, although the real impact has yet to be seen in years to come.  Limit screen time and promote healthy digital habits at home. Encourage activities that promote more face-to-face interactions and offline hobbies such as tech free evenings, board games or longer dinner time chats.  Keeping technology out of the bedrooms will make it much easier to encourage healthy habits.  Out of sight, out of mind. 

5. Seek professional help when needed:

While there are lots of wonderful resources online such as Ted Talks like this one below by Psychologist Paul Sunseri.

However, if you notice persistent changes in your child's behaviour or emotional well-being, don't hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional or counsellor.  One to one support with the right therapist who treats children and teens (and is ideally recommended to you) can be incredibly helpful.   

Please feel free to share this article and add any useful resources you have also found on your journey.  You are also welcome to email me your thoughts and feedback at cathy@mindfulwellbeing.co