How can we support our childrens mental health as we embark on a new school year?
Summer is a time to unwind and enjoy being unscheduled for both parents and children. In the blink of an eye, it seems, fall is upon us. The anticipation of school and schedules can be anxiety provoking for us all. How can we make this transition easier for our kids and support their mental health?
Here are the 3 things I think about when talking about mental health in children and teens.
Prioritize sleep. Sleep determines our mood, attention and ability to learn. In the weeks before school begins, start implementing your more structured schedule slowly. Teens need AT LEAST 8 hours of sleep per night. Tech is the major disruptor of sleep for children and teens. The light from our phones inhibits our brains' own release of melatonin, keeping us more awake and alert. Plugging in devices OUTSIDE of your child’s room (yes, EVEN TEENS) is a rule that I think every family should consider. Caring about your child’s mental health starts with protecting their sleep. Help them understand why this is a priority.
Healthy use of technology. Technology is an integral part of life and very important to your children and teens. We know that technology has a unique effect on the teen brain as it is developing. Technology itself is neither good nor bad, but the way we interact with it will determine its effect on the brain. When kids are using their technology to connect with others and promote and enhance in person social interactions, it can help to boost their mental health. On the other hand, we often see kids mindlessly scrolling through social media, allowing them to isolate themselves for long periods of time. This poses a risk to their mental health and can fuel depression and anxiety.
Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Being a teen today is stressful. We do not have to wait for a critical moment to reach out to a professional for help when we are concerned about our teens mental health. I like to think of mental health professionals as emotional coaches or tutors who can help build resilience in our teens. Initiating therapy can take time and your teen may not initially embrace the idea. Help to normalize this for them and involve them in the process. Go online and read through local therapists profiles to see who they may connect with. Support them through this by letting them know what to expect.
To all the mamas out there working tirelessly and worrying endlessly about your kids, I SEE YOU. Remember…supporting your own physical and mental health will allow you to better care for all the others that depend on you.
