A child’s feelings are often overlooked and ignored. They are often told how to feel and act. But it is hard if your child suffers from anxiety and depression. This also goes for any other mental health related illness. 

As a child, I suffered from depression and anxiety. I did not know how to handle it. Expressing my emotions to my parents was overlooked. I had to deal with it on my own. I isolated myself and my depression got worse.  By the time I graduated high school, I began college with deep anxiety and depression. It wasn’t until my college advisor was observant and noticed my patterns. That I was referred to counseling. She attend my first counseling appointment as my support system. My mental health could have been taken care of early on, if it was not overlooked. 

  • Take care of your child’s mental health wellness early on.
  •  Socialization is key in your children’s development. Remember, everyone needs someone to express their emotions to. This goes for your child as well. Your child needs a strong support system.
  • Talk to your child. Don’t overlook or ignore important warning signs. Be observant of your child’s behaviors and patterns. You are the first line of defense for your child. They are counting on you for support and help. 
  • Create a safe space for your child to open up and talk to you.
  • Don’t ignore or overlook your child’s emotions. 
  • Don’t just leave your child to be babysat by just anyone or because it’s free. Always be safe.
  • If your child feels uncomfortable around an individual. Do not force them to be around that person. Talk to your child to see why he/she feels uncomfortable around that individual. Take how your child feels seriously.
  • One note I want to stress: It’s okay for males to express their emotions in a positive way. Just like females, males have emotions as well. Talk to your son’s. Create a safe space for them as well. Let them know it is not weak to express how they feel mentally. Unfortunately, a lot of male victims of sexual assault never report it. This can cause damage on their mental health. Boy’s should not have to feel like they need to be “macho” all the time. 
  • Consult a licensed professional/ Doctor if your child’s mental health is in decline. Or if you see a pattern of warning signs in your child’s mental health.

CREATE A SAFE SPACE FOR YOUR CHILD TO OPEN UP AND TALK TO YOU