Story Highlight
– One in five children in England has a mental health disorder.
– Emergency care referrals for kids increased by 10%.
– Long waiting lists for mental health treatment are common.
– Parents experience significant emotional strain during crisis.
– Seeking support and sharing feelings is crucial for families.
Full Story
The prevalence of mental health issues among children and young people has reached concerning levels in England, with recent estimates suggesting that approximately 20% of individuals aged between eight and 25 are affected by mental health disorders. This issue has been compounded by a significant increase in referrals to emergency mental health services, which rose by 10% within a single year.
The challenges that children face in managing their mental health can be profound, and the repercussions extend beyond the young individuals themselves, deeply affecting their family members, particularly parents. The emotional burden of watching a child struggle without adequate support can lead to feelings of helplessness and despair for parents, impacting their own mental well-being in the process.
Rebekah Eames, a trauma therapist at the charity Family Action, highlights the particular strain modern parenting places on families. She notes, “Times are tough, and families can be under a lot of pressure from all directions.” This notion points to the multifaceted nature of parental stress, where pressures from work, financial responsibilities, and societal expectations can create an overwhelming environment, particularly for mothers. Eames further observes, “And mums, in particular, often end up at the bottom of the pile.”
A parent’s mental exhaustion can have significant implications for a child’s well-being. Eames warns that experiencing high levels of anxiety can lead to families withdrawing from social interactions and enjoyable activities, which is counterproductive. “You may start to disconnect from relationships, friendships or family, which is a double-edged sword, because it’s often relationships that are the key to getting back on track,” she explains.
To combat this cycle of stress, Eames offers several strategies for parents who may feel overwhelmed. One essential step is to maintain connections with friends and family. Regular exercise or social outings, such as running with a friend or enjoying a warm drink, can be beneficial for both mental and physical health. Support from a network can alleviate feelings of isolation and be instrumental in regaining a sense of normality.
Honesty is also crucial in the parent-child dynamic. Eames advises parents against masking their own struggles from their children, stating, “It’s natural for adults to want to protect their children and not burden them with adult worries.” While it is vital to shield children from undue stress, acknowledging one’s own feelings can foster an atmosphere of openness. This practice not only helps parents but also teaches children to express their own emotions constructively. Simple statements such as “I’m feeling sad/frustrated today because…” can help in breaking down emotional barriers.
When addressing difficult topics, Eames suggests employing a framework known as the “3Rs” — regulate, relate, and reason. “Regulate your nervous system by doing calming things,” she recommends. Establishing a safe emotional environment is imperative, allowing for deeper connections and more effective discussions about feelings. For example, when engaging with a teenager about their mental health, Eames recommends doing something together, such as sharing a meal, to relieve pressure and facilitate open dialogue.
Eames explains that modelling healthy coping strategies is another fundamental aspect parents can introduce to their children. Fostering good habits, such as ensuring adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and regular physical activity, can create a solid foundation for positive mental health. She observes, “When families are under great stress and pressure, one of the things that can go out of the window very quickly, understandably, is play and fun.” Therefore, prioritising quality time, even in simple ways, is essential. Activities could be as uncomplicated as visiting a local art gallery, playing a board game, or simply enjoying a coffee together, all of which can strengthen familial bonds without incurring significant costs.
Navigating the complexities of a child with mental health challenges can also place strain on parental relationships. Rebekah notes potential difficulties that arise when one parent may not fully grasp the challenges at hand or when responsibilities concerning appointments and care become disproportionately shared. Communication becomes essential in these circumstances. A straightforward dialogue, such as suggesting shared responsibilities for appointments, can alleviate individual burdens and enhance cooperation.
“It would be great if you kept me in the loop about X,” can serve as a constructive approach to division of responsibilities, mitigating conflicts and misunderstandings.
Moreover, self-compassion is a vital aspect of parenting. Eames acknowledges that mistakes are inevitable and urges parents to be gentle with themselves, stating, “There’s no tougher job than parenting.” Accepting that errors will occur, and acknowledging them openly can help children learn that imperfection is a universal aspect of life. “It helps children feel understood and to move forward,” she concludes.
For parents who find themselves struggling excessively, seeking professional assistance is advisable. Eames encourages contacting healthcare providers who can refer individuals to appropriate mental health resources. Various charities exist, such as Mind, Samaritans, and Relate, providing various support services for families. YoungMinds is also a resource offering guidance for parents caring for children facing mental health challenges, while Family Action operates a free support helpline for adults.
As the crisis in children’s mental health continues to unfold, awareness and action on multiple fronts are crucial to ensure that the necessary support is available, both for children and their families. With collective effort and understanding, there is hope for alleviating the burden of mental health challenges in young populations.
Our Thoughts
The article highlights the ongoing mental health crisis among children and young people in England, revealing systemic challenges in accessing timely treatment. To mitigate such crises, several strategies could have been implemented:
1. **Enhancement of Services**: Investment in mental health services to reduce waiting times, in line with the Care Act 2014, which mandates local authorities to promote and improve the mental health and wellbeing of individuals.
2. **Increased Awareness and Training**: Schools and parents should receive training on mental health awareness to detect early warning signs, aligned with the Children and Families Act 2014, which emphasizes the importance of supporting children with special educational needs, including mental health issues.
3. **Community Support Initiatives**: Establishing local support groups can alleviate parental stress, as outlined in the Work Safety Regulations, promoting a safer and healthier family environment.
4. **Regulatory Compliance**: A review of compliance with the Mental Health Act 1983 could ensure that adequate resources are in place for mental health provision, reducing the stigma around seeking help.
By focusing on these areas, similar incidents related to children’s mental health can be prevented, fostering a healthier environment for families.
