Poor mental health / Suicidal
Before You Begin
Pause and breathe. Even if this shouldn't be happening... accept that it is and embrace it with composure and calmness.
Calmness is the only way forward because without calm, there is no possibility for receptiveness and connection. Your child won't give to you any more than they see from you.
Never forget that a strong connection is fundamental, as there will be no correction in them if there is no connection with you.
The Core Problem
**Suggesting the core problem behind a child's mental health struggles is beyond the scope of Strat For That.
For serious mental health issues, it is crucial to seek help from a qualified mental health care professional.**
What Will Make It Worse
Any action that makes the child feel more alone or hopeless.
What The Child Needs
1. To have loved ones normalize a focus on mental health: As a family, help your child understand that it is okay to seek help for mental health concerns, just like seeking help for physical health issues. **Then, in cooperation with the child, begin working with a mental health care professional as soon as possible.**
2. Increased self-care: Teach your child the importance of self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthily, engaging in physical activity, and spending time with friends or on activities they enjoy.
3. Support: Create an open and supportive home environment for your child to express their feelings without judgment. Let them know that you are there to listen and understand what they are feeling, going through, and what matters to them.
How To Have The Conversation With Your Child
Find a private space, without distractions, where the child feels comfortable talking freely.
Approach the conversation with concern and empathy.
Bring up points 1 (it's ok to seek help for mental health struggles) and 2 (self-care is very important) found in the "What The Child Needs" section above.
Keep them engaged with open-ended questions throughout the conversation, and encourage them to share their feelings and experiences around what you are talking about.
Help them believe that by taking a few key actions they will overcome the bad that they are experiencing right now, and that they are not alone; you will be by their side giving them the support they need the whole time.