Talk About Mental Health Early

MAKE MENTAL HEALTH PART OF THE CONVERSATION

Mental health should receive just as much attention and recognition as physical health. It deserves regular check-ins and open, ongoing conversations to ensure that your child feels comfortable talking about their mental health with you, as well as any challenges or struggles they may face in the future.

Normalize conversations about feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or sad. Let them know that these feelings are normal and that it is okay to open up about them. Most importantly, remember it is important to create a safe space for them at home so they do not feel like they are dealing with these feelings alone.

ASK FOR HELP

Even if they are not experiencing any mental health challenges, creating a safe, open space will let them know they can come to you if any of those feelings come up.

They might feel weak or uncomfortable asking for help, but it is important to let them know that seeking help for their mental health is actually a sign of strength and self-awareness.

SIMPLE STATEMENTS CAN HELP

"I'm always here to listen."

"You don't have to figure everything out alone."

Being vulnerable with your child can also make them more comfortable being vulnerable with you. Letting them know you have hard days, or that you may have lacked this connection with your own parents but want to be there for them, can show them that you genuinely care and want to support them.