Things families can do to help with mental health

Are you checking in with your child and yourself about mental health?

• Talk with your child/children one-on-one
• Listen without judgment and ask questions
• Use some of the resources provided here to start the conversation

Self Care Tips:

Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved ones.

• Take breaks from following the news, including social media
• Take care of your body with exercise, healthy eating, meditation, and good sleep
• Make time to relax
• Connect with others and talk about your concerns and feelings

Changes to Watch For:

Not all children and teens respond to stress in the same way so here are some common changes to look for:

• Excessive crying or irritation in younger children
• Returning to behaviors they have outgrown (for example, toileting accidents or bedwetting)
• Excessive worry or sadness
• Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits
• Irritability and “acting out” behaviors in teens
• Poor school performance or avoiding school
• Difficulty with attention and concentration
• Avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past
• Unexplained headaches or body pain
• Use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

Next Steps:

We encourage you to reach out, if applicable, for more support to your school-based mental health professionals or community mental health supports (see below).

• Contact your health insurance for a list of covered providers
• Check with your faith-based community for potential resources
• Talk with your employer to see if you have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Ask your child’s primary care physician for referrals/ideas
• If your family does not have insurance, contact the student services department and discuss the school-based mental health program.