Parental Mental Health Series: Part 1

Parenting is an experience that many have encountered or may encounter in the future. Whether it is raising a young child or a teenager, the parent plays a pivotal part in the development of child’s wellbeing. Much of the focus can be on the child’s wellbeing, but we often don't focus enough on the wellbeing of the parent.

Did you know that children of parents who have anxiety disorder are twice as likely to develop an anxiety disorder themselves when older? This does not mean for certain that your child will struggle with their mental health but serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of your mental health as a parent.

This means that a parent’s mental health can be reflected in their child. Taking care of your own mental health as a parent will not only benefit you, but the children under your care. Children often mirror what they see modeled in front of them.

Quick tips:

• If you are struggling with your own wellbeing, communicate this to your child so the child does not take it as a reflection of them.
• Model good coping mechanisms and appropriate responses to big emotions. For example, how to handle a situation where someone is angry.
• Seek professional or community help if you need it.

As always, if you are a parent and you are struggling with your mental health in any way, you can:

• Reach out to a healthcare provider (e.g. family doctor, nurse practitioner)
• The Health Navigation Service can help facilitate access to psychotherapy services for members of the Jamat who may be struggling with mental health concerns. Psychotherapy refers to a variety of treatments that aim to help a person identity and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Most psychotherapy takes place one-on-one with a licensed mental health professional or with other patients in a group setting. Subsidies to cover fees may be available for those who are eligible. To learn more about application eligibility and criteria, please contact ACCESS.  
• Call 9-8-8 if you are dealing with suicidal thoughts and/or a crisis