School Survival

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School Survival > For Parents >

How to Support Your Child's Mental Health During School Stress

Dear Parents,

I see you. I see the worry etched into your face, the sleepless nights you endure, wondering how to help your child navigate the relentless pressures of school. The weight of their stress feels like it’s crushing you, too. And it’s hard—so hard—to know what to do, to know how to be the parent they need in these moments. But you’re here, searching for answers, and that means something. It means everything.

School can be a battleground for your child’s mental health. The expectations, the deadlines, the social dynamics—it’s a lot. And sometimes, it feels like it’s too much. Your child comes home exhausted, defeated, maybe even angry or withdrawn. You want to help, but where do you start?

Start with listening. Truly listening. When your child speaks, put down the phone, close the laptop, and give them your full attention. They need to know their voice matters, that their feelings are valid. Ask open-ended questions and be patient. Sometimes, it takes a while for them to open up. And when they do, don’t rush to solve their problems. Sometimes, all they need is to be heard.

Be their safe space. School might feel like a minefield, but home doesn’t have to. Create an environment where they can relax and be themselves without judgment or pressure. Encourage activities that they enjoy and that help them decompress, whether it’s reading, playing a game, or simply sitting in silence.

Validate their emotions. It’s tempting to dismiss their stress, to tell them it’s not that big of a deal, that they’ll get through it. But to them, it is a big deal. Their world is shaped by these experiences, and they need to know it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know it’s normal to struggle. Sometimes, just knowing they’re not alone in their feelings can make a huge difference.

Advocate for them. If school is causing significant distress, don’t hesitate to step in. Speak to their teachers, counselors, or administrators. Explain what your child is going through and work together to find solutions. It might be adjustments to their workload, additional support, or even exploring alternative educational paths. Remember, you are their strongest advocate, and your involvement can pave the way for positive changes.

Take care of yourself, too. It’s easy to lose yourself in your child’s struggles, but your well-being is crucial. They need you to be strong and steady, and that means taking time to care for your own mental health. Find your support network, whether it’s friends, family, or a therapist. Lean on them when you need to, and don’t be afraid to seek help.

Lastly, remind your child that their worth is not defined by their grades or achievements. They are valuable and loved just for being who they are. Celebrate their strengths, encourage their passions, and remind them that it’s okay to be imperfect. Life is more than just a series of tests and assignments. It’s about growth, connection, and finding joy in the journey.

You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. Your love, your presence, and your support mean more than any perfect solution. Together, you and your child can navigate these difficult times and come out stronger on the other side.

Where to next? Pick one!

Posted in: For Parents on June 2, 2024 @ 8:29 PM

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