Recognising the signs of mental health struggles

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and as a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child’s emotional well-being.

With increasing academic pressures, social challenges, and the impact of technology, children today face various stressors that can affect their mental health.

Here’s how you can help your child navigate these challenges and build emotional resilience inspired by the teachings of this prep school in London.

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Supporting your child with their mental health

Recognising the signs of mental health struggles

Children may not always express their feelings directly, so it’s important to look out for signs that they may be struggling. These can include:

Persistent sadness or mood swings

Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

Changes in sleep or appetite

Difficulty concentrating at school

Withdrawing from family and friends

Increased irritability or anger

If you notice these signs over a prolonged period, it may be time to open up a conversation and seek professional support if needed.

Creating a safe & supportive environment

A child’s home environment plays a significant role in their mental well-being. Make your home a place where they feel safe, heard, and valued. Encourage open discussions about emotions by normalising conversations around mental health. Let them know it’s okay to talk about their worries without fear of judgment.

Spending quality time together, such as eating meals as a family, playing games, or simply chatting about their day, helps strengthen their emotional security.

Encouraging healthy coping strategies

Teaching your child how to manage stress and difficult emotions is a valuable life skill. Encourage activities that promote mental well-being, such as:

Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress.

Creative outlets: Drawing, writing, or playing music can be therapeutic ways for children to express emotions.

Mindfulness and relaxation: Breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help children manage anxiety.

Healthy sleep habits: A consistent bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed can improve sleep quality, which is essential for mental health.

Limiting stress & pressures

While it’s important for children to challenge themselves, excessive pressure—whether from school, extracurricular activities, or social expectations—can contribute to stress and anxiety. Help them manage their workload by ensuring they have a balanced schedule with time for rest and play.

Encourage them to set realistic goals and remind them that mistakes and failures are part of learning. Praise their efforts rather than just their achievements to build their confidence and resilience.

Seeking professional help when needed

If your child is struggling with their mental health and it’s affecting their daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. A GP, school counsellor, or mental health specialist can provide guidance and support tailored to their needs.

There is no shame in asking for help, and showing your child that seeking support is a sign of strength can encourage them to do the same in the future.

Supporting your child’s mental health is an ongoing process that requires patience, understanding, and open communication. By fostering a supportive home environment, encouraging healthy habits, and seeking help when needed, you can help your child build resilience and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.