Mental Health: Definition And Main Principles

For WHO, mental health is “a state of well-being in which everyone can fulfil their potential, cope with the normal challenges of life, work productively and productively and be able to contribute to the community.”

Mental health is, therefore, at the crossroads of psychological, health and social issues. It is intrinsically linked to the feeling of personal fulfilment and well-being. It is related to a very subjective but universal notion: happiness or, more precisely, the feeling of each person in relation to this emotional state. In fact, there are as many different definitions as there are people because the quest for happiness is very personal.

It is based on fundamental rights (such as freedom of speech and movement), on social needs such as being able to connect with others (social interactions) and on more personal notions linked to the uniqueness of each individual (aspirations, needs and desires in everyday life specific to each individual).

How To Diagnose Distress In Children?

Observe the child and his behaviour: he seems to withdraw into himself, he no longer talks as much, he suddenly seems distant, he has outbursts of anger, and a sudden violent attitude. 

For children who do not speak much or have not yet acquired language, be extra vigilant about their behaviour, and observe their drawings, the colours used and the shapes represented because writing and drawing is another way of expressing oneself (non-verbal communication).

His nights are restless; he has difficulty sleeping, he has difficulty falling asleep, and he spends a lot of time in front of screens and the evening. These could be warning signs. 

These sudden changes in behaviour should alert you and prompt you to consult your doctor or the paediatrician who is treating them.

Also, try to discuss it with him and rely on books: they can help you find the right words.

Be aware that different mental health tests are possible, as well as screening tools; talk about it with a professional, they will also be able to carry out clinical examinations in order to establish a diagnosis and detect a possible illness.

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How To Diagnose Distress In Children?

A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. It’s not possible to prevent all mental health problems. However, there are steps you can take.

Good mental health is an essential part of healthy child development. It supports the development of positive behaviour and emotional, social and communication skills. It also lays the foundation for good mental health and well-being throughout life.

As a parent, you play a vital role in your child’s mental health. You can promote good mental health through the environment you create at home. This includes what you say and do.

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What Does Good Mental Health Look Like In Children?

Children with good mental health feel loved and safe. They also feel positive and good about themselves most of the time.

They are optimistic and resilient, which means they feel comfortable trying new things.

They feel like they belong and get along well with friends and family. They can cope with feelings of sadness, anger, or worry and bounce back from difficult times.

5 Tips to Support Your Children’s Mental Health

A positive, caring relationship with you has a direct impact on your child’s mental health.

Here are five ways to support your children’s mental health and well-being:

1. Talk to your children.

Children don’t always have the right words to express their emotions, thoughts or negative experiences. That’s why it’s essential to check in with them regularly.

Help them talk openly about their emotions by asking questions like:

• It seems like you’re sad. Do you want to talk about it?
• How do you feel about this situation?
• We are going through a difficult time. Can I tell you how I feel?

Please take the opportunity to talk to them about life events or stressors. Make sure to do this in an age-appropriate way. It’s essential to keep in mind what information your child can tolerate. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re planning to have a difficult conversation:

• Make sure you are in an environment where the child feels safe.
• Use easy-to-understand language and share your feelings with him.
• Give your child the opportunity to talk to you about their thoughts and feelings.
• Be aware of your emotional state and take a break if you feel exhausted.
• Consult a mental health professional if you need help discussing a complex topic with your child.

Modelling a positive attitude for your child is also helpful in teaching him how to manage his emotions. For example, “I’m disappointed that I didn’t bake these cupcakes well. But that’s okay. I’ll try to make them again another time.” Or “Running around that track seems difficult. But I think if I go slowly and at a steady pace, I can do it.”

2. Practice active listening

When you initiate a conversation, especially a difficult one, give your child the opportunity to express themselves genuinely. This will help validate their feelings and experiences. These cues can help establish a productive and meaningful conversation:

• Stop what you are doing and give your child your full attention.
• Maintain eye contact to show that you are paying attention to him.
• Get down to your child’s eye level to help them feel safe and in control.
• Repeat what he says and think about it to make sure you understand correctly.

3. Encourage playtime

Even in difficult times, create a reassuring and positive environment for your children. This will allow them to play and do activities that help them relax. What activities do they enjoy that can help improve their mood? Here are some ways to encourage positive play when your child is feeling sad or stressed:

• Take him outside to a park or open space where he can run, jump, or tumble. This helps relieve stress and negative emotions.
• Set aside time to paint or draw so he can express his feelings.
• Make time for socialization with other children. This can teach him how to manage and understand different emotions.

4. Establish a routine

A routine lets us know what to expect and is often reassuring. Please work with your child to structure their day. By involving them in the decision-making process, you give them a sense of control. It also helps you create a sense of security. Here are some tips to help you plan a realistic routine for your child:

• Be clear and specific. When children have trouble sticking to a routine, it’s usually because they don’t understand it. Or they don’t know how to approach it.
• Write down the routine.  Involve your child in creating a to-do list or schedule. This will help him remember the routine and reinforce his sense of responsibility.
• Be realistic and flexible.  Planned meals and bedtimes are essential, but listen to your child if they are hungry or sleepy.

5. Create a safe and cheerful home environment

Monitor your child’s media use, both in terms of content and time spent on it. This includes TV, movies, games, and the Internet. Set up parental controls and talk to your child about Internet safety.

Do not discuss serious family issues in front of your child. Topics such as finances, marital problems or illnesses can be worrying for children.…