When should I talk about mental health to my child?
The simplest answer to this question is any time that you find yourself in a conversation. The more you talk about mental health, the easier it will be to bring up the topic.
Talking to any young person about something can be a challenge, let alone a difficult conversation around their mental wellbeing, hence making this topic part of normal life will make it easier.
Times when you could approach the subject are :-
Over a meal together. This can be ideal as there is something else to focus on.
When they are in a good place. It is great to reinforce the positives of good mental health as well as have a conversation about the challenges.
When they want to chat. If your young person is feeling talkative take the opportunity to chat.
When you are on a trip or journey.
When the young person is in a negative space (e.g. upset, angry, negative, bored). You might need to defuse the mood first, but take the opportunity to agree and set a time to talk.
During an activity.
If you notice a change in behaviour.
Remember that you need to be OK to have the conversation. Don’t avoid talking about it if you are not OK – this is a great time to demonstrate good mental health care; just keep the conversation about how you feel and what you are doing to change.
