Content originally from Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System.
As we navigate the winter months and anticipate the festive season, it’s crucial to remember that physical health isn’t the only thing we need to look out for—our children’s mental well-being is equally important. This week, in our Children’s Health Matters series, we’re focusing on tips and strategies to support your child’s mental health.
Winter can be a challenging time, as the lack of sunlight and outdoor activity can affect mood. Additionally, the build-up to the festive season can bring its own set of pressures, from heightened excitement to feelings of overwhelm.
Strategies for mental wellbeing
Open communication
- Keep the lines of communication open. Encourage your children to share their feelings and listen without judgement.
Routine and structure
- Maintaining a consistent routine, including a healthy sleep schedule, can provide a sense of stability.
Physical activity
- Exercise is proven to improve mental health. Even a short walk outside can make a difference. Visit Active Essex for more activity ideas.
Healthy eating
- A balanced diet rich in nutrients can have a positive impact on mood and energy level. Find out more by visiting Better Health Healthier Families.
Mindfulness and relaxation
- Simple relaxation techniques can help children manage stress and anxiety.
Screen time
- Be mindful of how much time your child spends on electronic devices, as excessive screen time can contribute to feelings of isolation.
| Better Health Every Mind Matters have lots more useful tips on support your child’s mental wellbeing |
Coping with festive season stress
- Manage expectations: The festive season can be overwhelming; managing expectations can help reduce stress for everyone involved.
- Include your child in plans: Whether it’s decorating the house or planning activities, involving your children can make them feel valued.
- Quality time: Spend quality time together as a family, whether it’s watching a film, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company.
Extra support for young people
Kooth is an online support community for young people aged 11-18 years (up to 19th birthday) with a free, safe and secure means of accessing support from a professional team of qualified counsellors. Young people can access this service anonymously by signing onto the Kooth website. They can access:
- Online counselling
- Self-help materials
- Fully moderated peer-to-peer support forums
- Personal goal-based journal
The site provides unique, out of office hours’ provision and is open 7 days per week, 365 days a year (from 12noon until 10pm on weekdays and from 6pm until 10pm on weekends, with limited times on bank holidays).
SWF Health & Social Care Group 