In many ways, this has been a year like no other. A frightening pandemic, online learning, social isolation, and economic hardship for many have triggered increased anxiety and depression among people of all ages. So, as parents, how can we understand and support our children, whatever feelings they are experiencing? How do we maintain our own mental health and wellbeing so that we have the energy to care for our children? And how can we tell if our children’s emotional ups and downs are a natural response to the upheaval in all our lives? Or, if our children's behaviors are signs of more significant mental health issues that may require professional help?

 

This week’s Mom Enough guest, Stephanie Combey, is Senior Program Director for Children’s Mental Health at St. David’s Center for Child and Family Development (a supporting partner of Mom Enough). Stephanie brings more than 20 years of professional experience and a wealth of solid information to her discussion with Marti and Erin. You will learn how signs of mental health problems show up in the brain, body and behavior of children of all ages; key strategies parents can use to help their children through rough times; and what kinds of therapeutic services are available even during a pandemic.

 

WHAT ARE YOU MOST CONCERNED ABOUT WHEN IT COMES TO CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH?

What new things did you learn about signs and symptoms of mental health problems in children? How can you tell if these signs indicate clinical anxiety or depression? And what are some practical ways parents can help children be resilient through these challenging times?

 

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH?

❉ RECOGNIZING ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN. Review this helpful tip sheet from St. David's Center for Child and Family Development with a list of signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in children.

 

❉ MENTAL HEALTH, A FAMILY AFFAIR: HOW MANAGING YOUR OWN STRESS AND EMOTIONS SUPPORTS YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH AND WELLBEING. This Mom Enough episode features another expert from St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development, who discusses how to move toward more positive patterns of stress management, with long-term benefits for all.

 

❉ THE CHEMISTRY OF CALM AND JOY: A CONVERSATION WITH INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRIST HENRY EMMONS. Dr. Henry Emmons has spent his career helping people understand and apply the chemistry of emotions, using simple, accessible strategies to manage energy, quiet our minds, build resilience and maximize our experience of calm, joy and well-being. Tune in to learn more!