In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, children are exposed to an ever-increasing flow of information, much of which can be distressing.
News of natural disasters, political turmoil, and acts of violence can permeate their lives, leaving them feeling anxious, confused, and overwhelmed. As parents or caregivers, it is our responsibility to provide children with the tools and support they need to navigate these difficult times and maintain their mental health.
The Impact of Distressing News on Children’s Mental Health
Before diving into strategies to support children’s mental health, it’s crucial to understand the potential impact that exposure to distressing news can have on them. Children, even at a very young age, can be deeply affected by what they see and hear in the media.
Here are some common emotional responses they may experience:
- Anxiety: News about disasters or conflicts can trigger feelings of fear and anxiety in children. They may worry about their own safety or the safety of loved ones.
- Confusion: Children may struggle to make sense of complex news events, leading to confusion and a sense of powerlessness.
- Anger or Sadness: Exposure to stories of injustice or suffering may evoke strong emotional reactions, such as anger, sadness, or empathy.
- Sleep Disturbances: Children might have trouble sleeping or experiencing nightmares as a result of distressing news.
- Behavioral Changes: Some children may exhibit changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, aggression, or changes in eating habits.
10 Strategies to Support Children’s Mental Health
As a parent or caregiver, you want to do all that you can to help children process the information they can be exposed to in the media. Even if you limit your child’s access to television or other devices, chances are that they are going to see and hear things that are complicated for them to process.
Even if you aren’t aware that your child has been exposed to distressing news and information, it’s best to be prepared with how to support their mental health. Some strategies that help support their mental health include:
1) Open Communication
Create a safe and open space for your child to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to ask questions and share concerns. Use age-appropriate language and explanations to help them understand complex issues. Avoid overwhelming them with too much information.
2) Limit Exposure
Monitor, as best you can, the content your child consumes, especially before bedtime. The older the child, the more challenging this becomes and it helps to gently inquire about how they are feeling. Consider watching or reading the news together, if this is age- appropriate, so you can provide context and answer their questions.
3) Promote Critical Thinking
Teach children critical thinking skills to help them discern between credible sources and misinformation. Discuss the importance of fact-checking and reliable news outlets.
4) Encourage Empathy
Help children develop empathy by discussing the feelings and experiences of people affected by tragic events. Encourage them to think about how they can help others in need.
5) Maintain Routine
A stable routine can provide a sense of security during uncertain times. Stick to regular meal times, bedtimes, and other daily activities.
6) Healthy Outlets for Emotions
Encourage your child to express their emotions through art, writing, music, or physical activity. These outlets can help them process their feelings.
7) Stay Informed Together
Keep yourself informed about current events and news, and share appropriate information with your child. This can foster a sense of shared understanding and collaboration.
8) Seek Professional Help if Needed
If your child’s emotional distress persists or intensifies, consider seeking help from a mental health professional or counselor who specializes in children’s mental health.
9) Positive Role Modeling
Model healthy coping strategies by managing your own stress and emotions in a constructive manner. Children often learn by observing their caregivers.
10) Community and Connection
Encourage your child to connect with friends, family members, and their community. Social support can be a powerful tool for managing stress.
Helping Children Cope with Specific News Events
Different news events may require tailored approaches to support your child’s mental health:
- Natural Disasters: Discuss safety plans and emergency procedures with your child to alleviate anxiety. Involve them in age-appropriate disaster preparedness activities, like assembling an emergency kit.
- Violence or Terrorism: Emphasize the rarity of such events and the importance of law enforcement and safety measures. Highlight stories of heroism and resilience to instill hope and a sense of unity.
- Global Crisis (e.g. pandemics): Explain the importance of following health guidelines and how their actions contribute to public safety. Keep routines and connections intact as much as you can, even if they have to be adjusted due to restrictions.
- Political Turmoil: Clarify the democratic process and importance of peaceful change. Encourage civic engagement and age-appropriate discussions about values and principles.
What NOT to Do When Your Child is Exposed to Distressing News
Just as important as knowing what to do to support your child’s mental health when there is distressing news and world events, it’s also helpful to understand methods to avoid.
Do not:
- Panic or Overreact: Your child looks to you for guidance and reassurance. If you panic or overreact to the distressing news, it can increase their anxiety and fear. Stay calm and composed.
- Ignore or Dismiss Their Feelings: It’s crucial to acknowledge your child’s feelings and concerns. Don’t dismiss their emotions or tell them to “toughen up”. Validate their feelings and let them know it’s okay to be upset or scared.
- Force Them to Talk About It: While it’s essential to create a safe space for your child to express their feelings, don’t force them to talk about distressing news if they’re not ready. Give them time and space to process their emotions.
- Blame or Point Fingers: Avoid blaming or using distressing news as an opportunity to express your own biases or feelings. Instead, focus on empathy and understanding.
- Use Fear as a Motivator: Avoid using fear as a motivator to make your child behave or think a certain way. Instead, encourage critical thinking and help them understand complex issues.
Supporting children’s mental health during challenging times is a complex but essential endeavor. By fostering open communication, limiting exposure to distressing news, promoting empathy and critical thinking, and seeking professional help when needed, we can empower children to navigate the troubled world around them with resilience and compassion.
Your guidance and support plays a vital role in helping them build the mental strength they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.