Children’s mental health is a sensitive topic that is often ignored and not addressed due to the stereotypes surrounding it. If not treated at the right time, mental health conditions can leave severe long-lasting effects on a child’s mind. We spoke to Dr Vrushali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, regarding the foolproof strategies that can improve the child’s mental well-being.

For the unversed, mental health refers to one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how one thinks, feels, and behaves in their daily day-to-day lives. One significant cause of mental health problems in children is the increasing pressure and expectations placed on them by society, parents, and schools.

What causes mental health problems in children?

The constant emphasis on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and social success can lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy in young minds. Other factors such as fear of losing loved ones during the pandemic, and the increasing use of social media platforms have exposed children to unrealistic standards of beauty, success, and happiness which can negatively impact their self-esteem and mental well-being.

With increasing rates of divorce, single-parent households, and busy working parents, many children may lack stable emotional support systems at home. This instability can lead to feelings of insecurity, loneliness, and abandonment in children, affecting their overall mental health. Moreover, conflict or trauma within the family can further exacerbate these issues and contribute to the development of psychological problems in children.

More about children's mental health management

Children’s mental health management is a topic of utmost importance. This means paying close attention to their thoughts, behavioral patterns, and feelings. Mental health problems are common and can happen to anyone regardless of their age. If not treated at the right time, such mental health conditions can leave severe long-lasting effects on a child’s mind and memories. It is important to understand and validate their emotion and acknowledge them.

Look for early signs in children’s behavioral patterns to maximize the damage and suffering: One main thing to look for is sudden changes in your kid’s behavior. Children who go through mental health issues often tend to get easily irritated, be overly aggressive, feel moody, have tantrums, lack energy, have shorter attention spans, and changes in eating habits. They also might suddenly feel uneasy to go out or meet new people. Mental health problems can sometimes exhibit physical symptoms such as frequent headaches, stomachache, fever, or other unexplained pains.

How to manage children's mental health problems?

• Managing children’s mental health begins with creating a safer and supportive environment. It is always advised to have a heart-to-heart conversation with your children frequently to know what’s going on in your child’s mind. Start with open communication and actively listening to what they feel about a particular situation.
• Encourage your child to express and acknowledge that their feelings are valid, also let them know it is normal to experience multiple emotions at the same time and how you, as a parent are always there to support them. Make sure they get enough quality sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in fun activities for relaxation.
• As a parent, avoid frequently questioning or interrogating their feelings. Make sure not to get frustrated if you do not see them making any progress over time. Avoid comparing your child’s situation with other children’s, which can hurt their feelings. Remember that every child is unique and may require different approaches when it comes to managing their mental health. It is essential to counsel the child if need be by taking the help of an expert.