Supporting Your Child with their Mental Health

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Mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during childhood and adolescence. As a parent, it can be difficult to know how best to support your child when they’re struggling emotionally. Whether they are experiencing anxiety, low mood, or simply going through a tough time, your role in their wellbeing is vital.

a parent talking and supporting her child with their mental health and emotions

Understanding the Signs

This prep school in Chelmsford suggests that children and young people may not always have the words to explain how they’re feeling. It’s important to look out for changes in behaviour, sleep, appetite, or mood. They might become withdrawn, irritable, or lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. Some children may complain of frequent headaches or tummy aches with no clear medical cause—this can sometimes be a sign of emotional distress.

Teenagers might express their struggles more openly, but they may also try to hide how they’re feeling. If you notice them isolating themselves, avoiding school, or showing signs of low self-esteem, it’s worth having a gentle conversation to check in.

Creating a Safe Space to Talk

One of the most important things you can do is to be available and approachable. Create regular opportunities for your child to talk, whether that’s during a car journey, a walk, or just over dinner. Try not to dismiss their worries—even if they seem small to you, they may feel overwhelming to your child.

Listen without judgement and reassure them that it’s okay to feel upset, anxious, or confused. Avoid rushing in with solutions; sometimes, they simply need to feel heard.

Encouraging Healthy Habits

Good sleep, nutritious food, and regular physical activity all contribute to positive mental health. Encouraging your child to take screen breaks, get outside, and stay socially connected can help build emotional resilience.

Try to model healthy coping strategies yourself, such as managing stress through mindfulness, talking about your own feelings appropriately, or showing how you deal with setbacks. Children often learn more from what we do than what we say.

Seeking Help When Needed

Sometimes, professional support is necessary—and that’s okay. If your child’s mental health is affecting their daily life, relationships, or education, speak to your GP, school, or a mental health charity. CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) can offer assessments and specialist support, though waiting times may vary.

You might also find help through school counsellors, pastoral teams, or external organisations like YoungMinds, Place2Be, or Kooth, which offers free, confidential online support.

Normalising Mental Health Conversations

Talking about mental health shouldn't be a one-off event. Making it a normal part of everyday conversation helps break the stigma and encourages your child to speak up when things aren’t right. Books, TV shows, and news stories can often open up great discussion points and help children see they’re not alone.

Supporting your child’s mental health is an ongoing journey. With patience, understanding, and the right support, you can help them build the tools they need to manage life’s challenges and thrive—emotionally, socially, and academically.