Many people are put off trying to get help for mental health problems especially because of the stigma attached to mental illness . Parents,carers and families are embarrassed to talk about it. This delays early intervention and referral to the appropriate mental health services.
Early intervention is crucial in helping a child with Mental Health issues. It could save his life.
Here are some tips and advice on how to help:
- Build a relationship of trust, not a judgmental or critical one
- Active listening and accurate reflection to show that you are genuinely interested in whatever they are going through.
- Always encourage them to talk about how they are feeling
- Empathize with them by showing a lot of compassion .
- Be open and talk about Mental health problems ( It could happen to anyone. It is not a taboo and is treatable)
- Explore areas where they are functioning well and work with them in those areas
- Always encourage and reassure them that they will get better
- Talk to them, and not their problem
- Seek professional help and support ; visit to the GP
When children with mental illnesses are properly treated, they can learn how to live a more promising life. They can overcome many of the issues that affect them and can live happy and productive lives that are filled with love, harmony, and a great mental health status.
Thanks for reading my March series on Mental Health in Children. Below are some child and adolescent mental health services that can render professional help and support:
No child should face a mental health problem alone. Get help early.
I would love to hear your questions and experiences. Join me on Facebook on http://www.facebook.com/raisingchampionchildren and share your thoughts and comments.
I look forward to April and sharing more parenting tips with you and your family.
Love, Bose