As a parent with mental health issues, one thing that we can all agree on is that we don’t want our children to suffer from the same issues. Unfortunately, when you suffer from a disorder yourself, a disorder that others in your family also have, the cards can be stacked against our own children. This is not to say that they are doomed and 100% share your mental illnesses, however, it can indicate a higher risk.
Understanding Mental Disorders in Children
Mental illnesses are caused by genetic and environmental factors, trauma being a leading cause in the environmental aspects of your child’s mental health. This can be some type of abuse, the loss of a loved one, and even natural disasters can be very traumatic.
Genetic factors that contribute to mental disorders are things that have changed or mutated the person’s DNA. Children who are predisposed to mental illnesses can be given preventative care to help them as they navigate the world. Some disorders in children look different than they do with an adult. For example, a mood disorder like mine can present with more frequent mood swings, irritation, and prolonged sadness.
How Can I Help My Child?
Even if your child is diagnosed with a mental illness all is not lost, and it certainly isn’t your fault. There are things you can do to help your child gain the necessary tools to overcome their disorder. The first step in helping your kiddo is to learn as much as possible about their disorder. By doing this you can learn how to help your child in the best possible way. No two children can be parented the same way, for example if your son likes fishing and your other son prefers video games they won’t be interested in learning the same way, so if they are taught the same way they may not grasp the concept you are trying to teach them.
The same is true of mental disorders, one child’s version of help can be different from another child, even if they have the same disorder. This is why it is so important to learn about your child’s mental illness, if you know the facts and you know helpful ways for them to cope, you can implement that to you and your child’s own personal mental health plan.
Here are some other ways that you can help your child;
Ø Help them build strong relationships
Ø Help them develop good self-esteem
Ø Respect and listen to their feelings
Ø Create a positive home environment
Ø Help them solve problems in a difficult situation
Personal Reflection
Having a child with a mental illness can be challenging, and by helping them cope you can forget to take care of your needs as you are so focused on ensuring that they are doing ok. While it is wonderful that you are there every step of the way to help your child, losing sight of your mental health while helping them will not benefit either of you in the future. It can be overwhelming to deal with this on your own, and seeking help is not a crime. In fact, it is recommended to ask for help, this will give you a better support system for you and your child.
Embrace your child for who they are, just as they embrace you. Making their feelings invalidated will only make the situation worse. And in this time of need, as they deal with their mental health, they need a strong advocate in their world. Someone they know is on their side and can give them a voice. You are their biggest fan; you just need to make sure that they know it.
Best Regards,
~TKNott~
References:
Arthur, R., T., PsyD (2014) Mood Disorders Afflict Adults and Children Alike. https://lindnercenterofhope.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mood-Disorders-Afflict-Adults-and-Children-Alike.pdf
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