Melanistic Magazine Vol 8

Health & Wellness

SUPPORTING OUR CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH

BY: DENISE STACEY

REGISTERED PROVISIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

What message are we sending to our children about mental health? We discuss experiences of discrimination, education, faith, family, etc. But mental health? Seems to be a “no fly zone.” Feelings of anxiety and depression are termed as “stressed”, “tired” or even “motivated”. At times, these feelings are questioned or dismissed with responses of “You shouldn’t worry about that”, “You need to manage your anger” or “What do you have to be sad about?”.

The best way to support our children’s mental health is to not only communicate with them but also actively listen to them. When our children express feelings of anxiety or depression, we need to validate those experiences. They need to know that it is normal to experience those feelings and that having those experiences will not lessen their value. Just as we eagerly support social justice and academic endeavors, mental health requires the same fervor and attention. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to a member of the mental health community that can help support your child and you.