As a parent, it is natural for you to worry about your child’s mental health and deal with all sorts of ‘what if’ thoughts around the topic. Simultaneously, it is also normal to feel hesitant to speak to your kids about the importance of mental health and help them build healthy mental health habits.
However, it is crucial to remember that it is not something to feel overwhelmed about or overlooked until facing severe issues. Counseling in Stillwater can assist you and your kid in better handling the situation if your kid has been facing mental health issues.
Here are a few tips on better teaching your kids the importance of mental health.
- Keep an eye on your mental health habits.
Kids easily enact their parents and make those habits a part of themselves as they grow. Thus, it becomes vital to remember the role you play as a parent in your child’s behavior. When educating your kid about mental health, first examine your understanding. Be clear and try to overcome all sorts of stigma around the topic. Watch out for your thoughts and emotions in different situations, and try to walk through them gently.
- Encourage your children to name their emotions.
You might have noticed your child behaves in certain ways when in certain ‘moods.’ It could be as simple as throwing something as an expression of anger, going silent when feeling sad about something, etc. In such scenarios, make sure that you do not end up criticizing your child for the behavior, and instead, help them to name the feeling and accept it. Help them understand why they feel so and that it is reasonable to feel it, no matter on which side of the spectrum of feelings it falls under. Most importantly, educate them that there is no certain way to be felt all the time. The ups and downs in their emotions are the most simple form of living.
- Sleep cycle habits
The morning you see your kid cranky because of their lack of sleep, you instantly know they are tired. Teach your kid about the importance of sleep, its effect on their physical and mental health, etc., in simple ways. Encourage them to stick to their sleep routine to avoid ill effects on their health.
- Teach them the value of self-care.
Self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining good mental health. Teach your children the importance of taking care of themselves physically, emotionally, and mentally. This can include activities such as exercise, eating well, engaging in hobbies, and maintaining a healthy social life. By nurturing their overall well-being, they will be better equipped to handle stress and emotional challenges throughout their lives. Encourage your children to prioritize self-care and make it a regular part of their routine.
- Spend time with your kids.
No matter how hectic a schedule you have for the next day or how tired you are after work, always carve out time for your children. Your kids eagerly wait for that time if you have been away all day. Listen to them speak about their little dreams and experiences throughout the day. This gives them a sign that you value them while, at the same time, setting the base for them to do the same for themselves.
