How to Make Mental Health a Priority in Your Family
By Stephanie Snyder
It’s no secret that these last two years have been incredibly difficult for a lot of families. Between lockdowns, quarantines, distance learning, job losses, and everything else in between, it’s no surprise that many families are feeling the strain of these challenging times. Fortunately, things are finally getting back to normal and children are beginning to return to some semblance of their pre-pandemic activities.
Although things are starting to improve, prioritizing your family’s mental health is essential to overcoming the past and looking forward to better times ahead. Below, are several ways you can help your family prioritize their mental health, and work towards developing positive coping mechanisms and healthy habits.
Be a Positive Mental Health Role Model
Your kid’s biggest influence isn’t some celebrity or pop star on tv, it’s you. If you take the time to prioritize your own mental health, your child will be more likely to do the same. While you may want to always put a brave face on for your children, there are times when it may be hard to do so, such as when coping with the death of a family member or another difficult situation.
It’s important to stay open and honest with your children and to let them know it’s okay to express their emotions without fear of judgment. By maintaining these open connections with your children they will be more likely to be honest with you as they grow older. This is especially important as they enter their teenage years.
Become Your Child’s Advocate and Remain Vigilant for Changes in Behavior
Your children spend the majority of their waking hours at school surrounded by their peers. It’s normal for your child to experience social and academic challenges every once in a while throughout their school years. However, if you start to notice changes in your child’s behavior or grades it may be time to sit your child down and assess the situation. If there are issues with a peer group at school that is not being handled appropriately, do not be afraid to speak up.
Your children’s mental health is significantly impacted by what happens at school, and with advances in technology and social media, it can be nearly impossible to catch a break from issues they may have with their peers when they come home. Remain vigilant for any significant changes and remind your child that they can always come to you. By knowing that they have a loving and supportive parent in their corner, it becomes easier to handle any stress stemming from their social lives.
Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle
The hustle and bustle of your average week probably leave very little time for healthy meal planning and regular exercise. Many people don’t realize that adopting a healthier lifestyle is a vital component in prioritizing your mental health. Exercise is a natural mood lifter, as it releases endorphins and other “feel good” chemicals in the brain.
By incorporating small changes in your family’s lifestyle and engaging in regular physical activity, you are helping your children learn how to take great care of their physical and mental wellbeing.
Know When It May Be Time to Reach Out for Help
Everyone needs a helping hand from time to time. This is even more apparent when it comes to your family’s mental health. While we may like to think we’re able to withstand any challenges which come our way, there are times when we may need help to develop the tools necessary to overcome life’s challenges. If your family member is struggling to cope with a difficult situation, consider reaching out to a qualified professional who is able to provide the help that they may need.
Professional counselors can offer the expertise your child may need to develop positive coping strategies and a healthier mindset. By seeking out counseling in Alpharetta, GA, or your local area, you can help your child take that first step to feel better and improve their mental health situation.
These may be challenging times, but you have the power to make positive changes to improve your family’s mental health. With a positive mindset, a determined spirit, and guidance through professional counseling, you will be in a better position to positively influence your family’s wellbeing and enhance their quality of life.
Author Bio
Stephanie Snyder is an author and internet writer, born and raised in Panama City. She enjoys writing, painting, dancing, and swimming with her fiance and beloved dog, Pluto
The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect all or some of our beliefs and policy. Any links on this page do not necessarily mean they have been endorsed by Defying Mental Illness.
About The Author