Keys to good mental health in children
Psychologists have found that children and young people with positive self-esteem, an optimistic outlook on life and good coping skills are less likely to develop mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.
The Raising Children Network, an Australian parenting website, has fact sheets that include tips for developing and maintaining your child's good mental health:
- Self-esteem (0 to 8 year olds)
- Positive attention and your child (0 to 8 year olds)
- Praise and encouragement (0 to 8 year olds)
- Anxiety and fears (0 to 8 year olds)
- Connecting with your preschooler (3 to 5 year olds)
- Dealing with tragedy and trauma (3 to 8 year olds)
- Mental health and wellbeing: an overview (9 to 15 year olds).
Queensland Health also has a range of fact sheets about mental health in children and young people.
Key contacts about mental illness for children and young people
- Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Withdrawal Service—a Brisbane-based service for 13 to 18 year olds who have a substance abuse issue
- headspace—online help, support and information about young people and mental health
- Kids Helpline—24 hour phone counselling for children, teens and young adults: phone 1800 551 800
- Queensland Health child and youth mental health services—check the online directory for a mental health service near you
- Reach Out—improve your understanding of the issues that relate to your and other people's mental health and wellbeing
- Youthbeyondblue—24 hour information and referral about depression and anxiety: phone 1300 224 636.
