In recent years, our society has made admirable strides toward accepting children with special needs, yet we still have a long journey ahead. The challenges faced by kids with common mental health issues often remain hidden and poorly understood.
Neurotypical children might have friends grappling with anxiety or depression, which can lead to confusion when those friends withdraw from social situations or become less communicative. It’s crucial to explain to them how anxiety and depression can impact a person’s ability to engage in activities that many of us easily enjoy.
Your child may know my son, Ethan. He’s a hilarious, warm-hearted kid who brings joy to those around him—when he’s present. Yet, there are times when he only participates halfway, or he may seem quiet and distracted. Occasionally, he must leave social gatherings unexpectedly, often without much explanation.
Just like many kids, he sometimes agrees to hang out only to cancel at the last minute. This might lead your child to think that Ethan isn’t a good friend or that he’s uninterested in spending time together. They may feel hurt or rejected, unaware that Ethan is battling a significant anxiety disorder. They might not realize that he wishes he could enjoy time with friends without the mental hurdles that often hold him back.
Raising a child with a mental health challenge has opened my eyes. Behaviors that I previously dismissed as mere flakiness now make sense; I now wonder how many people I misjudged due to a lack of understanding about their struggles with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
Statistics suggest that one in five American adults experiences a mental health issue annually. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly half of adolescents aged 13 to 18 have faced a mental health disorder, while over 20% have encountered a severe condition. This means that many of our kids are likely friends with peers facing these challenges.
For those of us who haven’t experienced similar struggles, understanding can be difficult. This is why it’s essential for parents to educate themselves and their children about mental health concerns.
First and foremost, kids should learn that most individuals with mental health disorders are not “crazy,” nor are they inherently dangerous. Their brains simply process situations differently. For instance, Ethan often fixates on worries that many of us can dismiss easily. His mind doesn’t allow him to let go, despite his best efforts. While he’s currently in therapy to help retrain his brain, he still finds it hard to socialize the way many of us take for granted.
Although he doesn’t suffer from depression, some of his behaviors may resemble its symptoms. If his friends were unaware of his anxiety, they might misinterpret his actions or feelings. Thankfully, I’ve had the privilege of discussing his situation with the parents of his friends, allowing them to better explain Ethan’s challenges to their children.
When Ethan is feeling well, he can share his experiences with his friends. Yet, during good times, he also desires to simply be “normal” and enjoy life without focusing on his anxiety. This is where parental conversations can make a significant difference.
Your children likely know and care for more individuals with mental health challenges than they realize. When struggles are primarily internal, it complicates relationships for everyone. By fostering understanding and empathy, we can help dismantle stigma and nurture valuable connections among our children.
For more insights into parenting and mental health, you might find this resource on pregnancy helpful, or explore topics related to personal journeys like those discussed in our couples fertility journey. Understanding the legal aspects of health in relation to mental wellness can also be found at California law.
Summary
Encouraging children to understand mental health can foster empathy and stronger friendships. By discussing the challenges some peers face, such as anxiety or depression, we can help remove stigma and promote understanding, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.