It’s hard to ask for help. In this episode we talk about the important and growing issue of mental health for young people. As parents we need to be equipped to identify the need and access help for our children.
Here are some of the suggestions we mentioned.
Be observant and learn how to ask good questions:
- What are some of your biggest challenges?
- How do you feel about those?
- Have your feelings changed?
- Where is God in the midst of those things?
- What does God think or feel about these things?
- What help do you want?
- Who else would you want to talk to about this?
- What is one step you can take right now about this situation or your reaction?
Notice changes:
- major change in behavior or mood
- exhibiting sings of hopelessness, numbness, or lethargy
- experiencing unfounded fears
- trouble doing normal daily behaviors such as eating, sleeping, or simple tasks
If problems persist find others to help you. We discussed Dr. Eddie Moody’s book First Aid for Emotional Hurts. In it he helps discern what type of help you might need. Here are some examples:
- Pastors
- Counselors
- Medical doctors (and medication)
- Psychiatrists, Psychologists
Lastly, we talked about healthy and preventive activities we can do for and with our children:
- Pray
- Read and meditate on God’s Word
- Engage with the church
- Foster healthy relationships
Remember, it is best to ask for help early. We are glad to be a first contact if you have questions. We’d love to guide you to specific help for you and your family. Until next time…Be Abnormal!