How to Improve Children’s Mental Health

Children’s mental health has become the talk of the town after a government report revealed earlier that the number of children among mental health patients is on the rise.¹

Apart from an education system that is known for being intense, there are other elements that contribute to damaging effects on psychological development in Hong Kong students. If left unaddressed, they may even lead to depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.¹

• Almost 50% of parents have signed up their kindergarten and primary school-aged children for at least two extracurricular classes.
• The overuse of mobile phones and prolonged hours spent on social media.
• One-fifth of parents chatted with their children less than once a week.
• Local children tend to stay up late. The lack of sleep could have an adverse effect on emotional development.

Symptoms of depression and anxiety²

• Apathy. Has your child lost interest in activities that used to bring them joy?
• Changing habits. Sleeping or eating too much or too little can be a sign of depression in children.
• Mood swings. If your child is easily irritated, extremely impatient or overly self-critical, or if they experience frequent mood swings, it could be a sign of depression or anxiety. 

Don’t hesitate to seek help

Mental wellness is just like physical wellness. If striving for more family time and setting boundaries for mobile usage don’t work, seeking professional help may be the sensible next step. 

Family

Concerned parents should speak to their child’s teacher to have a clearer idea of their behavior in school. Next, speak to a pediatrician and obtain a health check referral to a mental health professional. Family counseling can also help parents understand the child’s challenges.³

Medical

Mental illness is just like any physical illness — medication is an integral part of treatment that helps manage symptoms. Medications can be coordinated with psychotherapy and other specialists involved.⁴

School

In terms of education, mental health should be incorporated into the curriculum. More open discussions about mental health issues and related symptoms should be encouraged in order to raise awareness of the importance of mental health.

If your child is dealing with mental health issues, know that help is available for both you and your child.

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Sources:

1. SCMP - All work and no play: why more Hong Kong children are having mental health problems
2. Harvard Medical School - Are you missing these signs of anxiety or depression?
3. National Institute of Mental Health - Children and Mental Health
4. The Conversation - Five things schools can do to help pupils’ mental health