Many children and young people grow up with insecurities that can weigh heavily on them.
They worry about the future, and many develop fears and mental health issues.
“That’s precisely why they need secure anchors to help them navigate life,” says health scientist Dr Anne Kaman, deputy head of the Child Public Health research section at Germany’s University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf.
What strengthens children and young people’s mental health?
Dr Kaman lists these key points:
- Attention, stable caregivers and safe places – those who feel well cared for can talk about their fears and stresses, and cope with them more easily.
- Social anchors in everyday life – friendships, family rituals and reliable structures provide support and help to develop social skills.
- Experiences of self-efficacy – children need opportunities to experience that “I can make a difference”.
This helps them not only to “endure” difficult situations, but to “actively deal with them”, she says.
- Confidence – in times of crisis, many children and young people experience a loss of control, so it is important to encourage them.
“A positive outlook on the future can then provide guidance,” says Dr Kaman.
How parents model coping with stress is also important.
“It’s not about ignoring difficulties, but about experiencing them as surmountable,” she says.
This promotes inner strength and self-confidence in children, and this attitude is a key protective factor, especially in times of crisis.
Communication scientist Anna Frey notes that: ”Resilience does not mean thinking ‘nothing can hurt me’, but rather, being aware that you are not alone in a crisis.”
In other words, knowing that “I can get help; I have people I can turn to; I know tools I can use.”
There may be local points of contact for children, young people and carers in your area, where anyone with questions can access free and anonymous information and advice.
Check whether there are helplines or resources online that can support you. – dpa
