Children Get Stress Too: Tips for Mental and Emotional Health in Children

As parents its easy to identify our child’s physical needs: nutritious food, warm clothes when it’s cold, bedtime at a reasonable hour. However, a child’s mental and emotional needs may not be as easy to recognize. Good mental and emotional health allows children to think clearly, develop socially and learn new skills. At Mooresville Active Spine Chiropractic we care about not only adult health but the health of children. Keep reading to find out how to promote good mental and emotional health in children.

Basics for a child’s good mental health:

Unconditional love from family
Self-confidence and high self-esteem

1. Give children unconditional love.

Love, security and acceptance should be at the heart of family life. Children need to know that your love does not depend on his or her accomplishments, grades, or behavior. Mistakes and/or defeats should be expected and accepted. Mental and emotional health grows in a home that is full of unconditional love and affection.

2. Nurture children’s confidence and self-esteem.

Praise Them – Encouraging children’s first steps or their ability to learn a new game helps them develop a desire to explore and learn about their surroundings. Allow children to explore and play in a safe area where they cannot get hurt. Assure them by smiling and talking to them often. Be an active participant in their activities. Your attention helps build their self-confidence and self-esteem.
Set Realistic Goals – Young children need realistic goals that match their ambitions with their abilities. With your help, older children can choose activities that test their abilities and increase their self-confidence.
Be Honest – Do not hide your failures from your children. It is important for them to know that we all make mistakes. It can be very re-assuring to know that adults are not perfect.
Avoid Sarcastic Remarks – If a child loses a game or fails a test, find out how he or she feels about the situation. Children may get discouraged and need a pep talk. Later, when they are ready, talk and offer assurance.
Encourage Children – To not only strive to do their best, but also to enjoy the process. Trying new activities teaches children about teamwork, self-esteem and new skills.

3. When a child needs help

Parents and family members are usually the first to notice if a child has problems with emotions or behavior. Your observations with those of teachers and other caregivers may lead you to seek help for your child. If you suspect a problem or have questions, consult your pediatrician or contact a mental health professional.

Warning Signs

The following signs may indicate the need for professional assistance or evaluation:

Decline in school performance
Poor grades despite strong efforts
Regular worry or anxiety
Repeated refusal to go to school or take part in normal children’s activities
Hyperactivity or fidgeting
Persistent nightmares
Persistent disobedience or aggression
Frequent temper tantrums
Depression, sadness or irritability

Where to seek help

Information and referrals regarding the types of services that are available for children may be obtained from:

Mental health organizations, hotlines and libraries
Other professionals such as the child’s pediatrician or school counselor
Other families in the community
Family network organizations
Community-based psychiatric care
Crisis outreach teams
Education or special education services
Family resource centers and support groups
Health services
Protection and advocacy groups and organizations
Self-help and support groups

Just like adults sometimes children need a support system their loved ones can’t give. Children have a natural happiness that we are responsible for supporting. Mooresville, Active Spine Chiropractic provides care for the entire family.