top of page

Mental Health 101: What Every Parent Should Know

  • Writer: Monarch
    Monarch
  • May 6
  • 3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to check in not just on our kids—but on ourselves, too. As parents, we play a key role in shaping our children’s emotional well-being. But when it comes to mental health, many of us are still unsure where to start. This guide will help you understand what mental health really means, why it matters for your child’s development, and where to turn for help when it’s needed.





What Is Mental Health, Really?


Mental health is not just the absence of illness—it's a state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how children think, feel, and act, how they handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Just like physical health, mental health exists on a spectrum. Kids can struggle sometimes without having a “mental illness.” Recognizing the early signs of distress can prevent bigger problems down the road.


Why Mental Health Matters for Kids and Teens


  • Emotional regulation: Learning to manage emotions starts early.

  • Social development: Good mental health supports friendships, empathy, and cooperation.

  • Academic performance: Anxiety, depression, and attention issues can interfere with learning.

  • Resilience: Kids who develop coping skills early are more likely to thrive later.


According to the CDC, 1 in 5 children in the U.S. experience a mental health disorder in a given year. Early support makes a huge difference. 🔗 CDC: Children’s Mental Health


Signs to Watch For


Every child is different, but these are some common indicators that a child may need extra support:

  • Frequent sadness, worry, or anger

  • Withdrawing from friends or activities

  • Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Sudden changes in behavior or academic performance

  • Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches without medical cause

Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s okay to reach out for help.


What Can Parents Do?


1. Create an Open, Supportive Environment

Encourage honest conversations. Let your child know it’s safe to talk about emotions, fears, or confusion—without judgment.

2. Model Mental Wellness

Kids learn how to handle stress by watching how you do it. Practice self-care, acknowledge your feelings, and show them healthy coping strategies.

3. Stay Connected to School and Community Resources

Teachers, counselors, and pediatricians can help identify concerns and suggest support services.

4. Don’t Wait to Ask for Help

Early intervention is key. You can start with your child’s pediatrician or connect with a child psychologist or therapist.


Recommended Books for Parents

  • The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson Explains how brain development affects kids’ behavior and how parents can foster emotional intelligence.

  • Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by John Gottman A research-backed guide to teaching kids empathy, self-regulation, and emotional strength.

  • How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish Offers practical tools for better communication and emotional connection.

  • Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety by Dr. John Duffy A timely guide to navigating the modern mental health landscape for teens.


Helpful Websites for Further Reading


Supporting your child’s mental health doesn’t require perfection—it requires presence, patience, and proactive action. By staying informed and keeping open lines of communication, you’re already taking an important step. Healthy mental wellbeing is a lifelong journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone.


ADHD - Autism - Executive Functioning - Learning Disorders

Discovering an individual's strengths, differences & resiliency


Comments

bottom of page