Recognizing that this winter may be a difficult time for many families, especially those whose children struggle with mental health, North Eastern Ontario Family and Children’s Services (NEOFACS) has rounded up expert child and youth mental health tips to help.
With the holidays behind us, and the province in lockdown again with schools closed, we know this will be a difficult time for many families in our community.
We are sharing these tips to help you through, but if you are a parent or a caregiver and feel that your child needs more mental health support, reach out for help by contacting us 24/7 at 705-360-7100 or toll-free at 1-800-665-7743 in the Cochrane District or 1-866-229-5437 in the Timiskaming District.
- Focus on gratitude:
- Take a few minutes to think of the things you are grateful for and encourage children to do the same. That is not to take away from how challenging things have been over this last year, but rather, it’s an opportunity to recognize that some good things have been happening, too.
- Embrace winter:
- Having a positive mindset about winter may encourage you and your family to think of new ways to get outside more.
- Collaborate with kids on plans:
- Take time to collaborate with your children and family on activities to stay busy. If your teen is feeling unmotivated to go out, try to really understand what’s behind their feelings. Ask if there is anything new that they are interested in trying. It gives you a chance to help them shift how they may be feeling.
- Stay connected:
- Talk to children and teens and ask what methods of connecting with friends is best for them. Is there a virtual program they could do together? Depending on your child’s interests, it could be something like a shared online yoga or dance program.
- Stay active:
- Going out, even on cloudy days, will give you a dose of much-needed natural light.
- Keep healthy habits and routines:
- Prioritize the healthy habits you normally have, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and exercising regularly. Routines – and knowing what to expect in the day – can be especially helpful to children with mental health issues.
- Reach out for help:
- If you are not sure what your child is experiencing is normal or if they need help, reach out for help by calling NEOFACS at 705-360-7100. Help is available from child and youth mental health experts who can talk to your child or you, or both.