A remarkable surge in children;s mental health disorders is a disturbing trend that reflects society’s failure to provide adequate support to the countless children silently struggling.
Health experts have emphasized the pivotal role parents play in supporting children’s mental health. Family and couple therapy, along with techniques such as psychotherapy, stress management, and behavioral training, prove instrumental in addressing these issues.
Government and community efforts must provide accessible mental health resources, with a commitment to prioritize children’s well-being alongside physical health, they stressed.
Chief Executive Officer MehfoozBachpan (Child Protection Campaign), Bushra Iqbal highlights, “Understanding a child’s personality physiologically, mentally, and physically by giving them a conducive approach provides a protective environment, making them more successful and feel like useful citizens of society.”
A known psychologist Sobia Khateeb adds, “Family and couple therapy are very helpful in dealing with children’s mental health issues, including psychotherapy, family training therapies, stress management, and behavioral management.”
Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s mental well-being. By actively engaging with their children, observing their activities, and addressing their thoughts and concerns, parents can create a nurturing environment that fosters emotional resilience. Open and supportive conversations at home can help alleviate fears and anxieties that contribute to mental health disorders, she added.
Regular check-ins with children are essential in monitoring their emotional well-being. Emotions and moods can fluctuate, and by actively communicating and offering support, parents can normalize any fears or anxieties stemming from their environment. Reinforcing positive aspects of their lives, such as engaging in activities, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies, can significantly contribute to a healthy mental state.
However, the responsibility to address children’s mental health issues extends beyond the confines of the home. Government and community efforts are crucial in providing accessible mental health resources and interventions.