As children across the area prepare to return to school, it’s a good reminder for parents, caregivers, and educators to prioritize conversations about mental health. Addressing mental well-being can help young people navigate the challenges of school life, build resilience, and seek support when needed. Raising a community of children who have the skills to care for their mental well-being appropriately can also help end stigma as this generation grows.
St. Clair County Community Mental Health’s Child and Family Services team has practical tips to facilitate these critical discussions.
Create an Open and Safe Environment
Foster open communication by encouraging your children to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. Establishing a safe space for open dialogue is essential. Heidi Fogarty, LMSW, Child and Family Services Director at SCCCMH, emphasizes, “When children feel heard and understood, they are more likely to open up about their mental health.”
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Heidi Fogarty, Child and Family Services Director at SCCCMH.
Fogarty suggests setting aside time to check in with your child daily about their feelings, using open-ended questions like “How are you feeling today?” or “What was the best part of your day?”
Use Age-Appropriate Language
Because children and teens have different levels of understanding, it is necessary to tailor your approach. Use language that is appropriate for their age. Simplify complex terms for younger children and provide more detailed explanations as they age.
For young children, use simple terms like feeling sad or feeling worried. For teens, discuss specific mental health terms and conditions, such as anxiety or depression, and explain them clearly.
Normalize Conversations about Mental Health
Normalize discussions about mental health by treating it with the same importance as physical health. Karleigh Knox, LMSW, a children’s clinician with SCCCMH, notes, “When mental health is a regular topic of conversation, it helps reduce stigma and makes it easier for children to ask for help.”
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Karleigh Knox, Children’s Clinician with SCCCMH.
Knox suggests that adults share their feelings and experiences to model openness. “Discussing mental health topics as part of your everyday conversions, not just during crises, can help children understand it is ok to talk about these things,” Knox states.
Educate and Inform
Educate your children about mental health and the importance of self-care. Providing accurate information can empower your children to take charge of their mental well-being.
Explain the basics of mental health, such as the impact of stress and the importance of coping strategies. Books, videos, and other resources can help adults explain these concepts.
Recognize and Address Signs of Distress
Watch for signs that your child may be struggling with their mental health, such as changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
“Take note of any sudden or drastic changes in behavior,” suggests Fogarty. “If you notice signs of distress, gently ask your child if something is bothering them and offer your support.”
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This space provides an outdoor area for youth to connect with nature.
As a trusted adult, it is also important to understand the resources available in our community if additional support is needed. If you’re seeking support for a child in your care, contact St. Clair County Community Mental Health’s Access Line to learn more about services at 888-225-4447. However, during heightened concern, the Mobile Crisis Unit is available to all community members. Our team of trained mental health professionals can provide support, from answering your questions to helping you navigate a mental health concern to providing crisis support. MCU is available 24/7 by calling 810-966-2575.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Encourage habits that support mental health, such as regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet. These practices can help improve mood and reduce stress. Setting a regular sleep schedule and encouraging physical activity that children enjoy can teach them skills they can build on as they grow. Modeling healthy eating habits and focusing on a balanced diet can teach children how important these habits are to our overall health.
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St. Clair County Community Mental Health understands that making spaces comfortable and appealing to children can assist in their mental wellness journeys.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
Sometimes, professional help is necessary. Kevin Bautel, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with SCCCMH, advises, “If your child’s mental health concerns persist or worsen, seeking the help of a mental health professional is necessary. Familiarize yourself with local mental health resources, such as CMH, our Mobile Crisis Unit, and even resources available through your child’s school, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you feel your child needs help.”
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Kevin Bautel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with SCCCMH.
Talking to our children about their mental health is critical as we head back to school. Creating a supportive environment and normalizing mental health conversations can help children grow into resilient adults.
For additional information and resources, visit SCCCMH’s website at scccmh.org. You can also follow on social media by searching SCCCMH on Facebook and Instagram. Together, we can support the mental health of our community’s youth and help them to thrive.