October 10: World Mental Health Day Highlights Need For Childhood Emotional Well-Being

World Mental Health Day serves as a timely reminder to prioritise mental well-being alongside physical health. Whether dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, caring for your emotional health is crucial. Engage in activities like talking to someone, walking, meditating, or simply breathing. Every small step counts. It's essential to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and support one another. Remember, seeking help is perfectly okay.

On this occasion, Kavita Kerawalla from VIBGYOR Group of Schools shared insights on childhood depression. She discussed how parents can identify warning signs and ways families can normalise mental health discussions at home. Depression in children often manifests differently than in adults, making it harder for parents and teachers to recognise.

Understanding Childhood Depression

Children's depression may appear as irritability or withdrawal rather than sadness. They might lose interest in hobbies or show changes in sleep patterns or appetite. These subtle signs are often mistaken for typical growing-up challenges and can be overlooked by adults. Creating supportive environments at home and school is vital for encouraging open conversations about feelings.

Behavioural signs of depression in children differ from those in adults because kids often express distress through actions rather than words. Key indicators include losing interest in school or hobbies, declining academic performance, withdrawing from friends, irritability, or sudden changes in routine and energy levels.

The Role of External Factors

Today's children face unique challenges due to the pervasive influence of the internet and social media. Academic pressures are intense, and family dynamics significantly impact their experiences. Online platforms can lead to constant comparisons and peer pressure that quietly affect self-esteem and mood.

Family interactions play a crucial role in how children manage these feelings. Supportive environments help them navigate pressures and build resilience. Parents and educators must remain attentive and nurture connections to create safe spaces for expression.

Long-term Effects of Untreated Depression

If childhood depression goes untreated, it can have lasting effects on emotional development. Children may struggle with stress management, emotional regulation, or forming healthy relationships if their feelings aren't acknowledged early on.

This lack of support can increase the risk of anxiety or other mental health issues later in life. Early recognition and open conversations are critical for helping children develop resilience that lasts a lifetime.

Normalising Mental Health Conversations at Home

Families play a powerful role in integrating mental health into daily life discussions. Simple gestures like asking about a child's day or listening attentively can open doors to meaningful conversations about emotions.

Spending quality time together and acknowledging challenges helps children feel safe sharing their feelings. This approach becomes even more important during stressful periods like exam seasons when open dialogue aids anxiety management.

A Message to Parents and Children

Kavita Kerawalla emphasises that it's okay for parents to feel uncertain when accepting their child's struggles with depression. Listening patiently without assumptions is key to providing support rather than judgment.

"To children who feel unheard or misunderstood," she says, "know that your feelings matter." Sharing thoughts with trusted individuals like parents or teachers shows strength. Families and schools must work together to create spaces where every child feels valued.

Over recent months, VIBGYOR Group has conducted sessions with child psychologists on topics like bullying and building emotional resilience. These sessions aimed at guiding parents on recognising subtle changes in their children's behaviour while approaching them with care even if they hesitate to speak up initially.