Five Ways: Strategies to Help Kids Manage Their Mental Health

Managing mental health can be challenging at any age but children have less life experience and fewer coping mechanisms. Equip them with skills in childhood that can last a lifetime for a positive impact on students’ personal and academic success.

Name it to tame it: Help students talk through challenges they’re facing and name strong emotions. Have an open-door policy welcoming communication in-person as well as via text, which can feel less intimidating to share important information.

Include healthy adults in students’ lives: Communicating with parents may not always be possible. Help students have another trustworthy option by fostering key relationships with role models in their school, church and community.

Model downtime: Show your children what downtime means by practicing it yourself. Share intentional breaks together. Everyone needs a break from work and other responsibilities.

Encourage balance: There is more to life than dedication to one pursuit. Help your child develop diverse interests, hobbies, and friendships. If games, friends, or even academics are taking up too much bandwidth, intervene.

Seek professional help: Know that mental health resources are available. Start by calling your insurance provider to find out about covered options near you. Be willing to seek help for yourself and show your child that there is no shame in seeking outside assistance.