Are You Helping or Harming? The Role Of Parents In A Child's Mental Health

The recent years have shown us the criticalness of students’ mental health. The levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among young people have been rising significantly. With academic pressures, social dynamics, and future uncertainties engulfing the students’ thoughts, it is vital that we prioritise their mental well-being. Let’s understand the role of parents in supporting children’s mental health from Dr Alka Kapur, Principal at Modern Public School, Shalimar Bagh.

“Supporting mental health is not just about addressing problems when they arise but about fostering a resilient and balanced mindset capable of navigating life's inevitable challenges,” said Dr Kapur.

Role of Parents in Supporting Student Mental Health

Dr Alka said, “Parents play an indispensable role in supporting their child's mental health. As the primary influencers in a child's life, they are often the first line of support when it comes to dealing with mental health challenges. The impact of a supportive and nurturing home environment cannot be underestimated, as it helps build a strong foundation for positive mental well-being.”

Destigmatizing Mental Health

Destigmatizing mental health discussions is one of the key strategies that help you support your child's mental health. Creating an open and non-judgmental space for conversations about mental health encourages children to speak up about their struggles. This allows you to normalise mental health conversations in your household and the students to feel empowered enough to seek professional help when needed. (Parenting Books)

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Inculcating Self-Acceptance

“Self-acceptance is essential for mental wellness, and parents play a significant role in fostering this by acknowledging their children's uniqueness and successes rather than comparing them to others. This positive attitude helps students develop a better self-image, fostering self-kindness and an appreciation for their unique qualities,” said Dr Alka.

Promoting Healthy Coping Skills

Dr Kapur said that it is important to teach your children effective coping strategies for stress and anxiety. You can promote healthy ways to manage stress in your household like mindfulness, physical activities, and engaging in hobbies. These positive behaviours can be an effective tool that help parents equip their children to handle life's challenges.

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