Established in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month serves to increase the awareness and importance our mental health plays in the lives of each and every one of us. Over time, Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as MHAM, began to be associated with and observed during the month of May. As a society, it is crucial that we maintain the upward trajectory of the importance, attention, and awareness that mental health has received over the last 20 or so years. While in this blog, we would like to give attention to the ways in which we can care for the mental health of children in the communities around us, it is critical to be aware of the ways in which mental health can affect people of all ages and different life situations.
Ways To Care for Mental Health in Children
Acknowledge mental health
Speaking to children and acknowledging mental health is an extremely effective way of showing your concern. It is important for children to know that they are not alone in feeling anxiety or fear in future events, as well as regret for past events. When the concept of mental health is acknowledged in children, it can provide them with greater confidence and sense of security. It can also break a massive barrier in communication they might have in explaining what is worrying them in their daily lives.
Love them as much as you possibly can, and even more than that
Showing love to children can and will always be the greatest power you can give them. Whether you’re their parent, sibling, or any relation, letting them know constantly how valuable they are to you and others around them will always prevail as an emotional superpower. The love they receive from young ages will translate to their adulthood, and they will be able to positively affect the people around them when the time comes as well.
Fun and activities
Having fun and enjoying the amazing experiences life has to offer will remind children of why we all work hard in our daily endeavors and objectives. Fun activities with family and friends create unforgettable memories and stories that will last forever!
Be a role model
The power of influence might be one of the most underestimated of all time. Children look up to those around them whether they are siblings, parents, family or friends. They’re always learning, observing decisions and actions that we take. Being a role model and positive influence will not only allow us to move closer and closer to the person we want ourselves to be, but also spark and influence changes in the individuals around us to do the same!
Let them be independent when possible
Learning experiences for children are important for improving their overall confidence. Allowing children to be independent in certain scenarios will allow them significant mental growth and prepare them for the lives they will live as adults. Be sure to know when the right time is to allow children independence! Life learning experiences arrive naturally.
In recent times, mental health awareness has taken strides forward and grown to be a much more popular point of discussion for overall health. It is our responsibility to ensure that mental health awareness continues to grow more and more, and that we can encourage increasing numbers of individuals opening and seeking help should they need it. Let us all constantly check up on our families and friends, and inspire them to check up on their families and friends and, create large chain reactions of positivity to spread to the places far beyond the reach we thought could ever be possible!
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