NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, has some great resources on their website for parents. For example, they created The Three C’s to help you connect with your child around mental health and wellness. Here they are in a snapshot:
Get CURIOUS
Use these conversation starters to talk to your kids about what they are experiencing. Remember to listen with curiosity and empathize with them. Here are some examples:
-It seems you are sadder during the evenings. So let’s explore why that may be happening…
-I’ve noticed you seem less interested in some of your favorite activities. Do you notice that too?
-When was the last time you felt this way? What was happening around you?
Get CONCRETE
Check in with your child with some of these questions. NAMI calls it 10 Question Tuesday and the complete list of questions are on their website but here are a few to start!
-What has been taking up most of your mental energy these days?
-What’s your favorite way to relax or de-stress right now?
-What’s something you are looking forward to? What are you dreading?
-Do you feel you have too many responsibilities? Do you think you are managing your time well? What could support you?
Stay COMPASSIONATE
Use compassionate language to ensure your child feels seen, heard, and validated when discussing mental health and wellness. Here are some tips:
-Say “Thank you for telling me that” after they express their feelings.
-Get comfortable with silence as people tend to share more when we show we are listening without interrupting.
-Try to remain calm. If your child senses you are upset they may shut down or be less likely to share in the future.
-Practice active listening, saying things like, “What I am hearing you say is….”
For more parent/caregiver resources go straight to NAMI.org.
