Discussing Your Mental Health with Your Child

I have always been open with my children about my bipolar disorder, discussing my mental health struggles with them. I have made sure that all my lovely children understand my mood swings. Therefore, it was natural for me to address any questions they might have. To explain my different moods, I use a simple indicator: “When mummy wears dark colours, she might not feel too great, but when she wears bright colours, she feels great.” This visual cue effectively conveys my mood without the need for words.

Each parent has their own unique approach, and it’s crucial to find what works best for you and your child.

Some parents may hesitate to talk about their mental health with their children, fearing it could cause undue stress or questioning if young children can comprehend such concepts. Research and real-life experiences demonstrate that having age-appropriate discussions about parental mental health is beneficial for both children and parents. While parents’ experiences directly influence children’s social and emotional well-being, parents dealing with mental health issues can still effectively parent and minimize the impact on children with the right support.

Initiating these conversations can be challenging for parents. Practitioners can play a crucial role in assisting parents in understanding what children observe and comprehend about parental mental health. By equipping parents with the necessary tools and support, they can feel empowered to have these crucial conversations.

Navigating this intricate topic with care is essential, especially when addressing sensitive subjects like mental health with children. Accuracy is key, even though it may be tough for adults, as it is crucial for the well-being of the children.

Children are perceptive and can sense changes in their parents’ behavior and body language, even if efforts are made to conceal mental health issues. School-aged children rely on observation to interpret clues and understand the situation when faced with these changes.

Seeking guidance from adults, children try to make sense of their experiences; however, without clear explanations, they may form their own interpretations. This could lead to self-blame or feeling responsible for their parent’s well-being, which can be more harmful than the truth.

It is crucial for parents to consider how their symptoms and changes in behavior, facial expressions, and tone of voice may be perceived by their child. They should reflect on what the child sees and hears and the impact these observations have on their emotions.

Parents may find it overwhelming to think about how their child perceives the situation, especially if they are still processing it themselves.

Parents should find solace in knowing that facing mental health challenges does not define them as “bad” parents. It’s essential to understand that even in challenging circumstances, they can nurture a strong connection with their child. 

Conversations with children about their parent’s mental health are crucial. These discussions help children understand the family situation and make sense of their experiences. When children are unaware of what’s happening in the family, they may worry, feel isolated, and misinterpret the circumstances. They might feel personally responsible and be concerned about both their own and their parent’s well-being. Most children are curious about the reasons behind a parent’s behavioral changes and the treatment being pursued.

Early discussions with children about mental health can eliminate stigma, encouraging them to seek help and learn how to handle challenges later in life.

Educating children about mental illness and its impact on their family can encourage open discussions about mental health, making them feel at ease. Encourage them to seek help if they experience anxiety or stress. Establishing a safe space for conversation and mutual understanding will evolve over time as children’s informational needs change with their growth.