MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS…

Now More Than Ever!

What Children Need for Good Mental Health

It is easy for parents to identify children’s physical needs – like good food, safe housing, plenty of sleep and exercise.  But children’s mental and emotional needs may not be as obvious.  Good mental health allows child to develop emotionally, socially and intellectually, and learn new skills.  These tips can help you support a child’s mental health:

• Spend time every day listening and talking to your children about what is happening in their lives.
• Nurture confidence and self-esteem.  Praise and encourage your children.
• Encourage children to play.  Playtime is important to a child’s emotional development.
• Give appropriate guidance and discipline.  Be firm but kind and realistic with your expectations.
• Provide a safe and secure environment.
• Give children unconditional love.

 Untreated mental health problems can disrupt children’s functioning at home, at school and in the community.  Without treatment, children with mental health issues are at increased risk of school failure, contact with the juvenile justice system, dependence on social services, and even suicide.

What Can You Do For Your Mental Health – Every Day?

Mental health means something to everyone.  For many, it means minding stress levels and striking a healthy balance between work and home.  In good and bad times, caring for our mental health is key to living an enjoyable and productive life.  Here are some useful tips to attend to your mental health every day…

• Relax.
• Laugh.
• Help others.
• Value yourself.
• Set realistic goals.
• Broaden your horizons.
• Take care of your body.
• Get help when you need it.
• Avoid drugs and limit alcohol.
• Surround yourself with supportive people.