Pressures that kids face today are enormous, especially after surviving a hard year of mostly or all virtual learning. Things that contribute to stress in kids may include anxiety with returning to school, academic concerns, social pressures, social media and the general uncertainty related to the pandemic and safety. Parents should be on the lookout for any significant changes in their child’s mood or behavior.
Signs of anxiety or depression in kids may include:
Talking to your kids about anxiety and depression is important to help them work through their feelings and prevent emotions from snowballing. Discussions are best when done in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. Consider these tips as you prepare for a serious talk about mental health with your kids:
Remember that discussing mental health is not a one-time conversation. Be sure that you are checking in with your child regularly, even when nothing is wrong. Try to ask open-ended questions to open up a conversation and make sharing more natural. Give children the opportunity to ask questions, and pay attention to the reactions they have to what you share or ask.
For example, rather than asking, “Did you have a good day at school today?” which leaves two options - yes or no - try something like, “Tell me what school was like for you today.” Asking them what an experience was like for them doesn’t limit the conversation and allows kids to share more about their day.
Be sure to model positive sharing about emotions and challenges that you face because children learn from those around them. If you are comfortable and open about sharing how you feel, they are more likely to become more comfortable with sharing themselves.
If you suspect your child is anxious or depressed, seeking help early is important! Talk with your child’s pediatrician or primary care doctor and they can refer you to a mental health provider in your community. Schools are also a good resource for counseling support and referrals, so look into the resources available to you. There is a mental health number on the back of your insurance card which is helpful for finding providers in your area that are covered by your insurance.
If you have a life-threatening emergency, dial 911. To learn more about mental health and how you can start the conversation, visit valleychildrens.org/mentalhealth.
24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:(800) 273-8255
Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
Merideth Wirstiuk, Psy.D., joined Valley Children’s as a pediatric psychologist in 2017. She has worked with children and young adults diagnosed with behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, parent-child relational issues, grief and loss, chronic medical conditions and chronic pain, among others diagnoses.
