An increasing societal acceptance of children with special needs is commendable; however, there remains significant progress to be made. The needs of children facing common mental health issues are often less visible and not widely understood.
Neurotypical children may encounter peers who experience conditions such as depression or anxiety. These children may feel confused or hurt when their friends hesitate to engage in social activities or appear withdrawn. It is beneficial to explain how mental illnesses like anxiety and depression can impact an individual’s cognitive functions, making everyday tasks more challenging than they are for most people.
Your child might be friends with Ella, a delightful girl who is kind and humorous—qualities that shine when she is present. However, Ella’s attendance can be inconsistent. She may seem distant at times, feeling overwhelmed, or even leave social gatherings without much notice. Often, she may agree to plans only to cancel at the last moment.
This behavior can lead to misunderstandings. Your child may perceive Ella as a poor friend or assume she has lost interest in their companionship. They may feel hurt by her frequent cancellations, unaware that Ella is grappling with a debilitating anxiety disorder. They might not realize that she wishes she could enjoy socializing without hesitation, but her brain often gets in the way.
Raising a child with a mental health issue has illuminated various behaviors that I had previously overlooked. Many individuals I once viewed as unreliable may simply have been dealing with their own mental health challenges. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 46.3% of adolescents aged 13–18 have faced mental health disorders, with 21.4% experiencing severe conditions. This suggests that many children are likely surrounded by peers managing mental health issues at any time.
For those unfamiliar with these struggles, comprehending the experiences of those affected can be difficult. Therefore, it is essential for parents to educate themselves and their children about the implications of mental health issues.
One significant lesson is that most individuals with mental health disorders are neither “crazy” nor dangerous. Their brains may simply process certain stimuli differently. For example, Ella’s mind fixates on worries that others can dismiss easily. Despite her efforts to manage these thoughts through therapy, she often finds herself unable to enjoy social outings.
Although Ella does not experience depression, some symptoms may appear similar. Without knowledge of her anxiety, friends may misinterpret her behavior. Thankfully, Ella has consented to inform her friends’ parents about her condition, enabling them to provide context to their children regarding Ella’s occasional absences, thus fostering understanding.
When she is in a good mental space, Ella can discuss her anxiety with friends, but during these times, she often prefers to enjoy normalcy without dwelling on her struggles. It is crucial that her friends are made aware of her condition. Parents can help by explaining it to their children in relatable terms.
Your children likely know and care about individuals with mental health challenges, even if they are unaware. Internal struggles can complicate relationships for everyone involved. The more we foster understanding and empathy, the better equipped we are to support those who are facing these challenges. Removing stigma can be invaluable in preserving meaningful friendships.
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To explore more about understanding mental health in children, refer to our other post here.
In summary, fostering an understanding of mental illness among children is imperative. By encouraging openness and empathy, we can help cultivate a supportive environment for all children, particularly those experiencing mental health challenges.