By Dr Archana Dubey, Chief Medical Officer
United Healthcare of California
With the holiday season, students across the country finish their homework and exams for a long vacation. For many, it is a time to rest, recharge and reconnect with friends and family. This can also provide an important opportunity for adults around students to learn about their mental health and well-being.
In middle school, our children’s lives are full of new experiences; While exciting for many, coping with academic pressures and growing independence can also lead to mental health issues, including anxiety or mood disorders that might need special attention.
According to a recent summary of health data from America’s Health Rankings®, young adults (ages 18-25) faced the greatest behavioral and mental health challenges of all adult age groups, and were the more likely to report frequent mental disorders, depression, unmet disorders. mental health needs, suicidal thoughts and substance use disorders.
Many assume they would recognize when their child is facing issues like depression or anxiety, but these challenges can often escape a parent’s immediate attention. A survey of students and parents of students revealed wide disparities in parents’ perceptions of students’ mental health issues. Parents were twice as likely to report that their child had not experienced any behavioral or mental health problems in the past year, compared to what students reported about their own experiences. This disconnect is more than just a generation gap: When it comes to depression, substance abuse, eating disorders or suicidal thoughts, not knowing what students are experiencing can have serious consequences.
Opening the door to honest conversations is an important first step, as is staying tuned to behavior. Some common warning signs of developing mental illness include persistent sadness, withdrawal from social interactions, bouts of extreme irritability, drastic changes in mood, behavior or personality, changes in eating habits , difficulty sleeping, frequent headaches or stomach aches, difficulty concentrating, changes in display. in their academic performance or by avoiding or missing school.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when discussing mental health with your child:
Start the conversation by asking questions. Mental health is a sensitive topic that your child may not want to discuss. As a parent, help your child feel comfortable by approaching the topic with empathy and curiosity. Consider asking questions that encourage them to share their experiences rather than giving “yes” or “no” answers:
“How do you manage the balance between school and social life?
“Can you tell me about some friends you’ve made and what you like to do together? »
“I noticed you haven’t been feeling well lately, can you share what you’re thinking?”
Validate your child’s feelings and let them know that it’s okay to feel upset, anxious, scared, or angry. Avoid discussing how they should feel and be open to discussing what makes them feel that way. Even if they don’t respond, know that they are listening. If your child is hesitant to discuss his emotional or behavioral changes with you, continue to be supportive and encourage him to talk to someone he trusts who may better understand his situation, such as another adult, a school counselor, or a doctor. .
Make a plan to take action. After carefully listening and assessing the situation, it’s normal to only have a few answers. To prepare for your child’s return to school, make sure they know the resources available to them if they need help – whether it’s knowing how to access support available at school or on campus, or to know the childcare options that exist thanks to your insurance.
For example, they may have digital self-help solutions or access to virtual visits through their parents’ plan or through a student health plan. If you have questions about resources, please talk to your doctor, insurance company, or contact the school to better understand your coverage.
Although conversations about mental health are not easy, they are essential. Our children are more likely to turn to us for help if we approach them with empathy and openness.
For more information about behavioral health resources, visit uHC.com And uHCSR.com.
