MONROE — Health is more than just eating right and exercising. Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it doesn’t always get the same attention.
“It’s so important for families to focus on mental health early on in their children’s lives,” says Lori Phelps, PhD, a behavioral health psychologist with SSM Health. “Talking openly with your kids sends a clear message that it’s okay to discuss mental health.”
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show an increase in the number of children and teens reporting poor mental health.
According to CDC Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance data from 2021, more than 22% reported having seriously considered suicide, and 10% reported having actually attempted suicide.
“Growing up with the pressures of social media and school shootings can be tough, so it’s important that kids feel like they have someone they can talk to about their concerns,” Dr Phelps said.
Adults also suffer from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and it’s common for caregivers to put their own needs on the back burner, which can be a burden.
“Balancing multiple priorities can be difficult, even if parents don’t have mental health issues themselves,” says Dr. Phelps. “It’s important that both children and parents have support.”
There are plenty of ways for families to conduct mental health check-ins without it feeling too intrusive or uncomfortable.
There are also lifestyle habits that can improve the overall mood of children and adults.
Families may want to consider the following:
● Implement cell phone-free meals and encourage everyone to actively participate in the discussion of the day and share successes and challenges.
● Actively listen to each other. Show your children you are paying attention. Take note of anything unusual in their behavior and ask them about it.
● Make time to enjoy physical activity, whether that be going for a walk, cycling or trying something new as a family.
● Try creative activities like art and music as a way to relieve stress.
● Encourage everyone in the family to get a good night’s sleep – turn off the TV and mobile phones well before bedtime and stick to a routine. Being well rested makes many aspects of life easier.
• Try to eat healthy foods and avoid alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
● Download wellness apps for stress-relieving activities like breathing exercises, visualization, yoga, etc. SSM Health has partnered with Jacob’s SWAG Foundation to develop The Got Your Back App. This free app features custom tools designed to help users deal with stress, anxiety, and depression.
● Know what to do if a mental health emergency occurs and create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing how they are feeling. If you feel like you’re in crisis, call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be contacted by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat option at 988lifeline.org/chat.
“Anyone who feels they have a mental health need but isn’t in an immediate crisis should talk to their doctor,” Dr. Phelps said. “There are many options available to help people feel better and live their best lives.”
