Years ago, mental health was more of a taboo subject, and people were more likely to hide their struggles.
Thankfully, we’ve come a long way as a society. Most people now understand that mental illness isn’t much different from physical illness. The brain is a muscle that we must nurture and exercise in order to avoid issues. Now for explaining this all to your kids…
Why it’s important to discuss mental health
According to data from the CDC, suicide rates are on a steady incline for the first time in over three decades, and one of the most concerning demographic group is girls between the ages of 10 and 14.
To be honest, no one is really sure why suicide rates have increased so drastically in this group, but one theory has to do with puberty.
If you have a teenager, you are intimately familiar with the way hormones can impact your child’s mood. And there’s a ton of research that links puberty with depression in both boys and girls.
To say the least, it’s a precarious time for the child and parent.
Opening the discussion of mental health can let your child know that it’s ok to feel down sometimes, but it’s also important to talk about your feelings.
More consequences of mental health issues
Suicide is a terrifying consequence of mental health issues, but it’s not the only one. Teens who struggle with anxiety and depression are more likely to experiment with drugs in an attempt to self-medicate. Not only is this a problem for teens, but it can lead to bigger issues in adulthood. No less than 90 percent of all adult addicts in the U.S. started smoking, drinking, and/or using drugs under the age of 18.
Tips for talking to your kids about mental health
The topic of mental health should never be taboo – and your children should always know this. They should always feel comfortable talking to you about how they are feeling. And this is more likely to happen when you open the dialog. For more tips, check out this Parents Guide: How To Help Your Team Cope With Mental Health Issues. Let me know what you think, and if you have any tips to share, leave them in the comments.