Finding a Strategy for Mental Wellness
By Natalie Croitoru | Contributor
In high school, I found myself dealing with a lot of stress. My fixation on grades was overwhelming, and I struggled with criticism. I invested my time in unfulfilling relationships and often felt stretched too thin. Eventually, this stress led to physical symptoms and forgetfulness. At that point, I hadn’t even considered mental health.
A pivotal conversation with my dad helped me begin to consciously focus on my mental well-being.
While we were playing soccer, he pointed out that I seemed overly fixated on the ball, neglecting to look around me. He asked, “How does it feel to concentrate so intensely on something you can’t control?”
He offered to guide me in shifting my focus. Through our discussions, I recognized that self-doubt was affecting not just my performance on the field, but my entire life. Over a year, we explored various stress management strategies until I began to find my balance.
While it’s easy to educate people on the importance of “stop, drop, and roll” in case of a fire, convincing them to create a plan for a mental health crisis is much more challenging. However, statistics reveal that three out of four Texans have a friend or family member affected by mental health issues, making the likelihood of encountering mental illness much higher than facing a fire. It stands to reason that having a plan for a mental health crisis is vital.
Successful sports teams rely on effective game plans. They understand the rules, prepare for both victory and defeat, and cultivate the resilience needed to face challenges. As your child’s coach when it comes to mental health, being aware of the signs, creating a plan, and adopting a supportive mindset is crucial.
Regardless of whether your teen is managing stress well or grappling with deeper issues, prioritizing their mental wellness is essential. The decision to either sideline mental health or confront it directly lies with you. The ball is in your court.
Put Together a Team
In healthy families, everyone works together. When teens feel connected, loved, and supported, it significantly impacts how they navigate life’s challenges. Your support system might include family, friends, or professionals, but it’s essential that everyone is well-informed and encouraging.
Make a game plan. Openly communicate with your teenagers about their emotional and mental health. Choose calm, distraction-free moments to engage in these conversations. Listen carefully to both their words and their silences. Are they fixating on negative thoughts? Do they sound stressed or anxious? Ask open-ended questions, and make observations like, “I’m worried you’re spending a lot of time alone. How are you feeling?”
Practice good form. As a parent, you set the tone. Stay informed about mental health resources and incorporate best practices for healthy coping mechanisms, such as:
– Spending time on hobbies like music, reading, or physical activities
– Engaging in selfless actions such as volunteering, attending religious services, or doing kind things for others
– Exploring creative outlets through writing, drawing, or crafting
Get in the Game
Know the warning signs of emotional or mental distress to allow for timely intervention.
Yellow Flags: Signs of Stress
– Difficulty concentrating or making simple decisions
– Memory issues
– Being easily distracted
– Reduced intuition or creativity
– Negative thought patterns
– Heightened sensitivity to criticism
– Lack of motivation
– Low self-esteem
– Not enough time for relaxation or enjoyable activities
Red Flags: Signs of Depression or Anxiety
– Feelings of hopelessness regarding the future
– Significant changes in behavior or personality
– Withdrawal from social circles, including friends and family
– Noticeable weight loss or gain
– Persistent feelings of sadness or irritability
– Feelings of worthlessness
– Difficulty thinking or concentrating
– Problems with sleep, whether insomnia or oversleeping
Cool down if things get heated. Implement the following strategies to reduce tension:
– Maintain a calm tone of voice
– Avoid arguing or rationalizing with an agitated teen
– Communicate your support and concern
– Allow your teen some space
– Listen attentively and practice patience
Conclude discussions positively. Ask how you can assist or what they need from you at that moment.
If it’s beyond your expertise, seek professional help. Find a trustworthy mental health professional for both you and your teen. Ask how you can be involved in the process. While your teen builds a relationship with the provider, take the initiative to gather resources to better support and follow treatment recommendations.
Stay the Course
Be an active part of the journey. A mental health condition can be either temporary or enduring. Stay involved, check in regularly, practice patience, and remember that it isn’t your fault. Understand the triggers and effective coping strategies to provide appropriate guidance and care.
It’s about progress, not perfection. Acknowledge the strides you’ve made. Reflect on situations or triggers that led to distress. Recognize what methods helped alleviate tension. Celebrate both significant and minor victories to remind your teens of the relief, hope, or positivity they can achieve.
Editor’s Note: Natalie Croitoru is a student at Rice University and a summer intern at Grant Halliburton Foundation, a Dallas nonprofit dedicated to supporting the mental health of teens and young adults and preventing suicide. GrantHalliburton.org
