As seen on ABC13 Houston – Full interview below
Remember, the mental health of our youth is not just shaped by what happens at school, but significantly by what happens at home. It’s time to take ownership of the environments we’re cultivating for our children, and by doing so, we can shift the trajectory of their mental health for the better.
-Beatrice Klokpah, LCSW-S
As the school year kicks off, it’s important to recognize that returning to school can be a source of stress and anxiety for many children. Parents and teachers should be aware of the various stressors that students may face, including social pressures, academic concerns, and changes in routine. Children may worry about fitting in, making friends, or even whether they’ll be able to keep up academically. At home, additional stressors such as family dynamics and scheduling challenges can exacerbate these concerns.
The State of Kids’ Mental Health in Texas
In Texas, mental health issues among youth are a significant concern. Over 1.2 million Texas youth report having a mental, emotional, behavioral, or developmental problem, with 1 in 6 kids between the ages of 6 and 17 experiencing a mental health disorder. Unfortunately, many of these issues go untreated, particularly when family systems are already under strain due to external stressors like rising costs, work pressures, and social challenges.
For parents, understanding these statistics can be overwhelming, but it’s a critical first step in supporting your child’s mental health. Early identification and treatment can make a significant difference in managing mental health conditions and improving outcomes. But how do you know if your child is struggling, and what can you do about it?
Recognizing the Signs
Children go through various developmental phases, and it can be challenging to distinguish between normal behavior and signs of a mental health condition. For instance, it’s typical for toddlers to experience “melt-downs” as they navigate their world, and teens might pull away as they develop their identities. However, if your child is consistently struggling with daily tasks or seems overly anxious, withdrawn, or irritable, it might be time to seek help.
What Can We Do?
Parents and teachers can play a pivotal role in supporting students during this time. It’s essential to check in with children and ask brave, thoughtful questions to understand how they’re feeling. For example:
For more actionable tips and resources, you can access a PDF by texting BOLD to 55444. Let’s work together to ensure our children have the support they need to thrive this school year.
- “What are you looking forward to the most?”
- “Are you nervous about going back to school?”
- “What do you need from me to make this year successful?”
The BOLD Approach
To help guide your support, consider using the BOLD approach:
- Brave: Ask brave questions and engage in meaningful conversations with your child.
- Optimistic: Stay positive when faced with challenges and encourage your child to do the same.
- Lead: Lead by example in prioritizing mental wellness for both yourself and your child.
- Determination: Be determined to make the transition back to school as smooth as possible, taking into account what you would need if you were returning to work after a long break.
As a therapist with over 12 years of experience working with adults, I’ve seen firsthand how childhood experiences, particularly those related to home life, shape the adults we become. The key to supporting our children lies in creating stable, supportive home environments. By taking an honest inventory of our family dynamics and addressing any issues, we can create a foundation for our children to thrive.
A Call to Action
Parents, it’s time to slow down and tune into what both you and your children need. Seek support when necessary, and remember that children act out for a reason—they’re seeking attention, validation, and support. By fostering a safe and nurturing home environment, we can reduce the pressure on teachers and help our children develop into healthy, resilient adults.
Remember, the mental health of our youth is not just shaped by what happens at school, but significantly by what happens at home. It’s time to take ownership of the environments we’re cultivating for our children, and by doing so, we can shift the trajectory of their mental health for the better.
For more actionable tips and resources, you can access a PDF by texting BOLD to 55444. Let’s work together to ensure our children have the support they need to thrive this school year.
Breaking the Stigma
Talking openly about mental health helps break down the stigma that often surrounds these issues. Encourage your child to express their feelings and remind them that mental health is just as important as physical health. By fostering a supportive environment, you can help your child navigate their mental health journey with confidence and resilience.
In conclusion, mental health is a vital part of your child’s overall well-being. By recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps to support your child, you can make a significant impact on their mental health and their future. Remember, you’re not alone—resources and support are available to help both you and your child thrive. Text BOLD to 55444 for a free downloadable PDF.
