STARTING THE CONVERSATION It’s crucial to talk about mental health with your children. Open, honest conversations about feelings can lay a foundation of support that will stay with them their entire lives. Starting these conversations may feel uncomfortable, especially if your family isn’t used to these types of discussions. Here’s how to approach it with kids at different stages of development: Young Kids (Ages 3–7) Keep it simple and use language they understand. You might say things like, “Sometimes our feelings get really big and confusing, and that’s okay.” Use stories, books, or drawings to help them express how they’re feeling. Reassure them that all feelings are okay, and they can always talk to you about anything. Elementary and Middle School-Aged Kids (Ages 8–12) At this age, kids can understand more about emotions and mental health but may still find it hard to talk about. Encourage them by asking open-ended questions like, “What makes you happy or worried?” Validate their feelings and let them know it’s normal to feel sad, angry, or anxious sometimes. Share your own experiences in simple terms to normalize mental health discussions. Teens (Ages 13–18) Teens are developing their independence and may be reluctant to open up. Be patient and create a judgment-free space where they feel safe sharing. Respect their privacy while gently encouraging professional help if needed. The mental health challenges facing today’s young people are complex and often overwhelming, but families have a powerful role to play. Keep your discussions supportive, honest, and respectful of their feelings. Talking about mental health with your kids sets them up to be emotionally healthy adults who know they can always come to you for help.
SUICIDE PREVENTION RESOURCES » Alabama Suicide Prevention & Resources Coalition (ASPARC): asparc.orgsprc.org. » American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Alabama Chapter (AFSP): Call (205) 355-1876. afsp.org » Birmingham Crisis & Suicide Line: Call (205) 458-3371 (available 24/7). » Central Alabama Crisis Center : Call (205) 323-7777. uwca.org » Choices of Alabama: Offers outpatient mental health care for adults and adolescents in the Jefferson County area. Call (205) 639-1334. mentalhealthhotline.org » Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 — free, 24/7 text support across the U.S. crisistextline.org » JBS Western Mental Health Center: Provides discounted mental health services for Jefferson County residents with low incomes and low or no medical insurance. Pharmacy and emergency services are available. Call (205) 788-7770. mentalhealthhotline.org » Eastside Mental Health Center: Offers intensive outpatient and day treatment, plus rehabilitative and community treatment for mental health issues. Call (205) 836-7283 or walk in for emergency help. mentalhealthhotline.org » NAMI Alabama: Call (800) 626-4199. namialabama.org » The National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988. mh.alabama.gov » UAB Community Psychiatry Program: Free evaluation and diagnostic services. Call (205) 934-4108. mentalhealthhotline.org
BirminghamParent.com | 19
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator