In Florida, it is estimated that over 2.8 million adults are living with a mental health condition.
Join our family of readers for as little as $5 per month and support local, unbiased journalism.
Already have an account? Log in to continue. Otherwise, follow the link below to join.
Please log in to continue |
In Florida, it is estimated that over 2.8 million adults are living with a mental health condition. For young people between ages 6-17, it is projected that 1 in 6 experience a mental health issue every year.
Recently, First Lady Casey DeSantis introduced groundbreaking Resiliency Florida resources, encouraging parents and grandparents to step up as Resiliency Coaches and provide invaluable support for students navigating life’s challenges. With a focus on crucial skills like empathy and problem-solving, Resiliency Florida aims to empower educators and families to help children develop resilience and engage in healthy, effective discussions about mental health. Moreover, the Florida Department of Education offers a range of resiliency and mental health resources (https://www.fldoe.org/mental-health/).
Much like we teach children healthy habits such as brushing their teeth or eating breakfast every day, as a parent or caregiver, you can help children learn and practice mental health habits.
• Practice healthy coping skills. Helping your child learn and practice healthy ways to feel and manage their emotions will support them during rough times. Deep breathing techniques, taking a walk, or arts and crafts activities can help redirect stress while developing coping abilities.
• Keep the lines of communication open. Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable and safe sharing their thoughts, feelings and mistakes without fear of judgment. Tell them you support them while taking the time to explain any necessary consequences.
• Establish routines and boundaries. Setting daily schedules or weekly routines, such as a Family Game Night every weekend, gives children a sense of predictability and stability at home. Setting clear expectations on what is expected of them at home and school provides kids structure and can help reduce anxiety.
• Give positive feedback. Acknowledge and praise your child’s achievements, and when you know they are trying. This will help boost their self-esteem and confidence.
• Get moving! Help your child engage in a physical activity they enjoy, such as sports, dancing, riding a bike, etc. This not only gives them an outlet for their stress, but exercise has been proven to improve mood.
• Make decisions together whenever possible. Help your child develop a sense of autonomy and responsibility by including them in age-appropriate discussions and decisions, like what fun activity to do that weekend or what to have for dinner.
• Show that you are listening. Ask them how certain situations made them feel, extending empathy. When it comes to conflicts, ask them their opinion on what they should do before offering solutions.
• Encourage healthy relationships. Help your child build friendships with other children by setting up playdates or inviting their friends to fun activities. This will help your child create their own support network outside the home.
Children grow and develop so quickly that it is normal for these changes to impact their emotions and behavior. However, there is cause for concern if these changes interfere with the development of their thinking, behavioral, or relationship skills, affecting how they function at home, school, or in other social situations.
If you notice that your child is becoming withdrawn, check-in and let them know you are there to support them. And do not be afraid to ask for help by talking to your child’s pediatrician or school counselor. Some signs that your child may need professional help include:
• Sad or withdrawn for more than 2 weeks,
• Severe mood swings,
• Massive changes in behavior,
Practicing self-care is a significant way to help your child learn good mental health habits. Children learn so much from watching the adults in their lives, especially those who love and care for them. While you may think that you do not have time or the luxury to practice self-care, think about this: If you do not care for yourself, who will be there to take care of your family? Taking care of yourself does not have to consume much time or money.
About Healthy Humans Hendry-Glades
Healthy Humans Hendry-Glades provides resources and tips to help residents care for their physical, financial, mental, emotional, spiritual and social health. Supported by the Healthier Hendry Glades Task Force, a collaboration of partners that promote healthier lifestyles in Hendry and Glades counties, it provides tools for everyone to become a Healthy Human. For information, visit healthierhendryglades.org.
