Mental Health|12 September 2021

How to talk to kids about mental health : the dont’s

If you notice a change in your child’s behaviour or that they seem to be struggling, there are many ways you can offer support. Here are things to avoid when talking to them

Don’t take it personally

It can be difficult for children to share their feelings with you. They may be scared of an adverse reaction or unsure how to talk about difficult subject matters.

Don’t pressure
them into talking

If you create a comfortable and safe environment for your child, they will open up to you in time. Pressuring
them will not help.

Don’t judge them or punish them

When your child trusts you enough to talk about their mental health, do not judge or punish them. This will discourage them from opening up to you again, making it difficult for them to get the help they need.

Don’t doubt their experience

A common reaction for parents is to tell their children that their issues are “not a big deal”, and that childhood and adolescence are the easiest stages of life. This invalidates their struggle.

Don’t ignore small issues

It is easy to feel that small issues will pass in time, but sometimes they are indicators of underlying issues. Look out for recurring problems.

Don’t try to ‘fix’
it yourself

If a child is struggling with school or their peers, parents often try to solve the issue by inserting themselves in the situation.
This is usually counterproductive as children are more likely to address the issue when allowed to think of the solution independently.