Kids
The likelihood of young people having a mental health condition has increased by 50% in the last three years. Half of all mental health problems start by the age of 14, making it more important than ever to be aware of the challenges our children may face with their mental health.
In a special episode of Happy Mum Happy Baby in partnership with Bupa, Giovanna Fletcher sat down with Professor Sam Wass, a renowned child psychologist you may recognise from The Secret Life of 4 & 5 Year Olds. Together, they tackle one of the most pressing issues facing parents today – children’s mental health.
Adolescents and mental health
A survey run by Bupa revealed a significant disconnect between parents and children when it comes to discussing mental health. They found that 80% of parents feel their children don’t open up to them about their mental well-being, and 76% of parents admit they don’t feel confident in identifying signs of a mental health condition. There is a much-needed lifeline for parents grappling with these challenges.
Adolescence is a critical period where mental health conditions often first emerge, primarily because the brain is undergoing massive changes. “The brain areas associated with risk and reward, forward planning, and self-concept are still developing during this time,” Sam says. These shifts can make adolescents more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. It’s a stage of life that can be incredibly turbulent as teenagers grapple with questions of identity, fluctuating emotions, and a natural drive toward independence.
For many parents, it’s difficult to differentiate between typical teenage behaviour and signs of a deeper mental health issue. Prof Sam acknowledges that “abrupt changes in mood, changes in sleep, and unpredictable emotions” are all part of the natural teenage experience. However, he advises that parents keep an eye out for behaviours that extend beyond home life, like “Is this affecting them at school? Are their friends concerned?”
Anxiety
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues in young people, and it can manifest in various ways, making it challenging for parents to identify. Anxiety often presents as “emotion dysregulation,” where children or teenagers feel overwhelmed by their emotions. Common forms of anxiety include specific phobias, separation anxiety, and social anxiety, which tend to emerge during childhood and adolescence. “Social phobias, for instance, revolve around specific fears related to social interactions,” Sam explains. As teenagers develop, more severe anxiety-related conditions like panic disorder can emerge, leading to sudden, intense episodes of feeling overwhelmed or as though they’re losing control. While these conditions can be distressing for families, it’s essential to approach them with patience, understanding, and open communication. “What they just need is being listened to, being supported, being understood,” Sam adds, reminding parents that creating a supportive environment is key to helping their children navigate anxiety.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are another prevalent mental health concern in young people that can be especially difficult for parents to detect, as they are often characterised by secrecy. Professor Sam Wass highlights the subtle signs that might indicate a problem, such as changes in eating habits, sudden weight loss, or preoccupation with food. “If your child starts wearing baggy clothing or avoids eating with others, those could be warning signals,” Sam explains. Other behaviours, like exercising excessively or frequently going to the bathroom after meals, may also indicate an issue. What makes eating disorders particularly challenging for families is the emotional toll of realising their child is hiding behaviours from them. Sam emphasises the importance of approaching these concerns with sensitivity, encouraging parents to look for patterns and to involve friends, schools, and professionals in understanding the full scope of the issue. He advises that early intervention, open communication, and seeking help from a GP are critical steps to supporting a child struggling with an eating disorder.
Depression
Depression is another common mental health condition that can emerge during adolescence, and like anxiety, it can be hard to spot. Teenagers experiencing depression may show signs of withdrawal, low mood, or a lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed. Sam notes that “becoming uncommunicative or withdrawn” is a common red flag, but these behaviours are often mistaken for typical teenage moodiness. It’s essential to look for persistent changes in mood and behaviour that affect multiple areas of their life, such as school performance, friendships, and family relationships. “Depression can often disrupt sleep patterns and lead to feelings of hopelessness,” Sam explains, adding that parents should not hesitate to seek professional support if they notice these signs.
The Importance of Timing Conversations
When approaching your child to discuss their mental health, timing is everything. Conversations should happen when a child is ready, not when a parent forces the issue. Sam recommends finding moments when your child is more relaxed, such as during a car ride, where the lack of direct eye contact can make discussions feel less confrontational. “You’ve got all the time in the world to talk about it,” Sam says, urging parents to be patient and allow their child to open up when they feel comfortable. Forcing a conversation when they’re not ready can make them shut down further, making it harder to reach them in the future.
As mental health challenges continue to rise among young people, it is more important than ever for parents to stay connected and aware of the potential struggles their children may face. From anxiety and depression to eating disorders, Professor Sam Wass highlights the importance of early detection, open communication, and providing a supportive environment where children feel safe to talk about their emotions. “What children need most is to be listened to, supported, and understood,” he reminds us. By being proactive and creating an open dialogue about mental health, parents can play a pivotal role in their child’s emotional well-being, ensuring they don’t face these challenges alone.
For more tools and guidance to support young people’s mental health, visit Bupa’s online resources. You can listen to Professor Sam Wass on Happy Mum Happy Baby on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube now.
If you or your child are struggling with mental health, you don’t have to face it alone. Resources like Samaritans (call 116 123) and MIND offer free, confidential support for anyone in need. For young people, Childline (call 0800 1111) provides a safe space to talk about anything that’s troubling them. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP or mental health professionals for further guidance and support. Remember, help is always available.
