Tips for Parents

Collaborative care models are revolutionizing children’s mental health by bringing together diverse teams of healthcare professionals to provide holistic, coordinated treatment. These innovative approaches break down silos between medical and behavioral health, enabling early identification of issues, seamless referrals, and integrated care plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. From school-based health centers staffed by therapists and pediatricians, to telepsychiatry consultations for primary care providers, collaborative models are expanding access to vital …

Take a few deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of air moving in and out of your lungs. This simple practice can help calm anxiety in students by shifting attention to the present moment. Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite, noticing the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food. This can reduce stress and foster a healthier relationship with meals. Incorporate a brief body scan meditation into your daily routine, systematically bringing awareness to each part of your body and releasing tension. By…

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a hot topic these days – especially when it comes to its potential benefits for children and teens. But as a parent, you likely have some pressing questions: Is CBD safe for minors to use? What does the research say about its effects on developing brains and bodies? And perhaps most importantly, is it even legal to give CBD to kids?
In this article, we’ll dive into the complex issue of minors and CBD use. We’ll look at what the science says about CBD’s safety profile in children and adolescents, examine the current legal landscape around CBD and minors, and discuss some important …

Foster emotional resilience in students by teaching them effective coping strategies, self-regulation techniques, and healthy ways to express their feelings. Cultivate a growth mindset that embraces challenges, learns from setbacks, and celebrates effort over perfection. Build strong, supportive relationships with students, creating a safe space where they feel valued, heard, and understood. Equip them with problem-solving skills to navigate adversity, break down obstacles into manageable steps, and seek help when needed.
Teach Emotional Regulation Skills
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness practices can help …

Volunteer in the classroom to directly support your child’s learning and demonstrate your investment in their education. Join the PTA or school board to advocate for policies and programs that enhance student well-being and academic success. Attend parent-teacher conferences, school and mental health events, and extracurricular activities to stay connected with your child’s progress and interests. Maintain open, positive communication with teachers and administrators to collaboratively address any challenges and celebrate achievements…

Substance use and mental health are intricately intertwined, with each exacerbating the other in a vicious cycle that can devastate lives. When individuals turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with undiagnosed or untreated mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma, they may find temporary relief – but ultimately, substance abuse only worsens these underlying conditions. Conversely, chronic substance use can directly trigger or aggravate mental health problems by altering brain chemistry and functioning.
This complex bidirectional relationship is especially harmful for children and adolescents, whose developing …

Scrutinize your child’s online behavior for warning signs of mental health issues linked to social media use. Pay attention to changes in mood, sleep patterns, self-esteem, and real-world social interactions. Encourage open, non-judgmental communication about their experiences and feelings related to social media. Set clear boundaries around screen time and model healthy habits yourself to promote responsible, balanced social media consumption.
The Links Between Social Media and Mental Health Issues

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Unlock the power of your community to uplift children’s mental well-being. 5 Inspiring Community Support Examples showcase the transformative impact of collaborative efforts. From school-based programs to peer support groups, discover the diverse range of resources available to foster resilience and promote healthy development. Engage with local organizations, healthcare providers, and educational institutions to build a robust network of support. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where …

Foster open communication with children to create a safe space for discussing emotions and challenges. Encourage them to express their feelings through age-appropriate conversations, art, or play.
Model healthy coping strategies, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or seeking support from loved ones, to help children develop resilience and emotional regulation skills.
Establish consistent routines and boundaries to provide structure and stability, which can help reduce stress and anxiety in children.
Prioritize quality time together, engaging in activities that promote bonding, laughter, and relaxation, to strengthen …

Understand that there are many effective types of treatments available for childhood mental health conditions. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps children change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Medications, when prescribed and monitored by a qualified professional, can alleviate symptoms and restore balance. Family therapy strengthens relationships and teaches supportive parenting strategies for the child’s unique needs. With the right combination of evidence-based treatments tailored …