It’s important for parents to advocate for their children when it comes to their mental health. The warning signs of anxiety and depression in children can sometimes be hard to notice, which is why it is so important to be on the lookout for any patterns or changes in behavior.
“It’s not unusual for anybody to have a bad day, but if you’re seeing a persistent change in their mood, in their sleep, appetite, how they engage in the family, if they start to pull more and more inward, those kinds of things are key signs,” said Dr. Dan Marullo, a Pediatric Psychologist and Neuropsychologist at Children’s of Alabama.
Here are three steps to take to start the conversation about mental health with your child:
Acknowledge it’s ok to talk
Age is a big determiner on how parents can talk to children about mental health, so it’s important to use age-appropriate language. “Kids know that they feel bad, but don’t have the language to put those thoughts and feelings into words,” said Marullo. Drawing a picture helps younger children express emotions they can’t put into words. Creating a safe space for children to process however they need is a positive way to foster a conversation.
Acknowledge that their feelings are valid
Naming those behavioral changes in your child is so important. Pointing out that you’ve noticed they’re more sad or irritable helps the child to feel seen. This is also a way to start the conversation about the root of their feelings. Let your child know you want to listen and process their emotions together.
Acknowledge that safety is important
Dr. Marullo said it’s important to not be afraid to bring things up that are causing danger to your child, like thoughts of suicide. Ask them specific questions about thoughts of hurting themselves. “Sometimes people are concerned that by saying those words they are putting ideas in their head, but in actuality they are opening up the conversation and make it possible for that child to talk about what’s going on,” said Marullo.
How Children’s of Alabama Can Help
PIRC (Psychiatric Intake Response Center) is available for any parent or teacher to call if they are concerned about a child. Licensed professionals are ready to give guidance on next steps or find local mental health resources. Give them a call at (205)-638-7472.
Children’s Behavioral Health has outpatient mental health resources including psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health counselors to talk to. The department also has an inpatient psychiatric units for children who need hospitalization or stabilization for safety purposes. Learn more at https://www.childrensal.org/services/behavioral-health-ireland-center.
