Strategies for parents to help support their child's mental health.
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The NHS is urging parents and carers to be alert to signs that their children may be experiencing anxiety or low mood.
Signs that parents should look out for include:
· You might find they are more upset or find it hard to manage their emotions
· They may appear anxious or distressed
· Increasing trouble with sleeping and eating
· Appearing low in mood, withdrawn or tearful
· Reporting worried or negative thoughts about themselves or their future
· For younger children, there may be more regressed behaviour such as bed wetting or separation anxiety
If a parent is worried about their child’s mental health, they can help by:
· Making time to talk to your child
· Allow your child to talk about their feelings
· Try to understand their problems and provide reassurance that you have heard them and are there to help
· Help your child do positive activities including exercise
· Try to keep a routine over the next few months
· Look after your own mental health
· Talk to a teacher, your GP or health worker about your child’s mental health. They can refer you to the right support.
· If your child is facing a mental health crisis, contact your local 24/7 NHS helpline
Further details can be found: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2021/05/more-than-a-million-children-given-access-to-nhs-mental-health-support-at-school/