Let's talk about
Mental Health
For Parents of Grades K-6
Did you know...
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 10% of children ages 3 to 17 have diagnosed anxiety or depression.1 Despite the common adult belief that being young is easy, our young people are living in a challenging era: fearful about their health and the health of loved ones, overexposure to mature topics via social media/internet, societal injustice and unrest, and family dysfunction.
The youth suicide rate increased 56% in the last decade, and the average age for suicidal ideation is lower than ever. This is absolutely alarming. Denial is not an adequate response to this information.
We must be proactive, and teach young children effective communication techniques and positive coping skills. We must battle the stigma associated with mental health. Leaning on a support system is not weakness; on the contrary, having the courage to speak up for oneself takes a great deal of courage.
Asking children to talk about their fears, concerns, and anxiety can leave them feeling vulnerable. We are committed to your child’s total health, and this includes their mental health and wellness.
Our commitment to this is supported through this communication, and a student resource page. We are pleased to partner with you in the care of your child. We ask that you please read the tips below, spend time talking and listening to your child, and encourage their open communication.
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, June 15).
Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health.
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Parent Tips
Encourage
Encourage your children to talk about their day and listen as they share. Help them process their feelings.
Acknowledge Stress
Acknowledge that their stress is real. Avoid comparing it to adult stress.
Learn
Learn more about depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. and be alert for signals of distress.
Disconnect
Disconnect from electronics and social media, and require that they have device-free time as well.
Structure
Create structure by maintaining schedules and routines. This leads to feelings of safety and calm.
Relieve Stress
Directly teach them healthy ways to relieve stress.
Positive Coping
Model positive coping skills in your own life and daily interactions.
Encourage
Encourage your children to talk about their day and listen as they share. Help them process their feelings.
Acknowledge Stress
Acknowledge that their stress is real. Avoid comparing it to adult stress.
Learn
Learn more about depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. and be alert for signals of distress.
Disconnect
Disconnect from electronics and social media, and require that they have device-free time as well.
Structure
Create structure by maintaining schedules and routines. This leads to feelings of safety and calm.
Relieve Stress
Directly teach them healthy ways to relieve stress.
Positive Coping
Model positive coping skills in your own life and daily interactions.