World Mental Health Day, which occurs every year on October 10, presents an opportunity for communities and individuals globally to bring mental health issues into the limelight. The day has an emphasis on fostering awareness and promoting discussions about mental health problems that persist worldwide.
Mental health concerns affect millions of people around the globe. Equally worrisome is that the number of individuals grappling with mental health issues continues to rise. As such, the day is not only for the celebration of progress made in mental health discourse but is also a gentle reminder for families to introspect and create mentally-at-ease moments.
The deluge of news witnessed daily, including events unfolding in the southeastern United States, the never-ending conflict in the Middle East, and the buzz of the electoral season, can be overwhelming. The sheer volume of information can be particularly stressful for children and equally confusing for people striving to grasp the dynamics of these global issues.
Implicit within this problem is how children interpret and respond to the current state of affairs. Manifestations of stress in kids can emerge as anxiety, irritability, sleep or appetite alterations, trouble focusing, and, in the case of young children, even regression. To counter these challenges, it is imperative to equip children with effective coping skills to manage stress.
Emphasizing the role of parents or guardians, Rolando Valero, a licensed family and marriage therapist and behavioral health manager at a health center in Fresno, suggested that one effective strategy is modeling healthy coping skills. By demonstrating concrete steps to manage stress and anxiety, like taking regular breaks, adults can show children efficient, practical methods for emotional self-regulation.
Moreover, in a world rapidly adopting digital norms, Valero underlined the importance of home-based mindfulness exercises to foster a serene environment. An easy way to alleviate stress and anxiety, particularly in children, could involve limiting exposure to social media and news, thereby preventing unnecessary stress.
Furthermore, Valero stressed the importance of explaining to children the rationale behind these coping strategies. Understanding why certain behaviors need to be limited ensures their meaningful participation in the process.
It is also critical for adults to be self-aware, recognizing the signs of stress within themselves. Valero suggests that maintaining daily routines can create a sense of security. Adhering to regular schedules for meals, playtime, homework, and bedtimes is essential. Incorporating family activities, like post-dinner walks, in day-to-day life can serve as reassuring and bonding moments.
Lastly, Valero emphasized the necessity of sincere and healthy dialogue within the home setting so that everyone feels comfortable expressing their feelings. This is especially crucial considering the numerous headlines dominating day-to-day lives. Open conversations at home would go a long way in ensuring that everyone copes effectively with our unsettled times.
World Mental Health Day thus acts as a prompt reminder of the continuous efforts required to ensure the mental well-being of our families and ourselves. Despite the complex problems daily life can present, fostering an environment of understanding, empathy, and open dialogue is crucial in managing the stresses of modern life.
