Anxiety and Depression in Children

Are your Children experimenting with their identity? Maybe the boundaries might be the safety for them.

Prepared summary from the interview:

18. 11. 2023,

Eva Mikulecká, On line, Novinky CZ

Child psychologist Jan Kulhánek discussed the escalating concerns surrounding the mental health of today’s youth on the PoliTalk podcast. The conversation revealed a significant rise in difficulties among children, with up to 40% of ninth-graders exhibiting signs of moderate to severe depression, along with an increase in self-harm incidents and thoughts of suicide. Kulhánek highlighted the urgency of these cases, attributing the surge in mental health challenges to intensified parent-child relationships, increased family crises, and heightened pressures on adolescents.

Notably, the research uncovered that girls are more susceptible to depression due to the pressures they face during adolescence, compounded by social media, academic stress, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kulhánek emphasized the role of adults in exacerbating these challenges, citing parents’ uncertainty about their children’s future and reservations about various aspects of their lives. He stressed the need for parents to create an accepting and supportive environment, promoting self-assurance and calmness.

 An intriguing aspect discussed was the role of adults in exacerbating these challenges. Jan Kulhánek pointed out that parents’ uncertainty, anxiety about their children’s future, and reservations about various aspects of their lives contribute to unsettling the younger generation. The psychologist underscored the need for parents to create an environment where children feel accepted and acknowledged, promoting self-assurance and calmness.

The conversation also touched upon the concerning topic of self-harm. While acknowledging its seriousness, Jan Kulhánek clarified that the majority of children do not engage in self-harm as a manifestation of distress but often out of curiosity or experimentation, influenced by peers or online content.

The discussion delved into warning signs for parents, emphasizing the importance of open communication with children from an early age. Recognizing changes in behavior, academic performance, sleep patterns, and eating habits can serve as indicators of potential mental health struggles.

In addressing the sensitive issue of suicide threats, Kulhánek urged parents to take such expressions seriously, rejecting the notion that it is mere manipulation. He emphasized the need for parents to assure their children that their concerns are valid and to seek professional help when necessary.

The insightful discussion with Jan Kulhánek serves as a strong reminder for parents to remain vigilant, foster open communication, and seek professional assistance when navigating the complex landscape of their children’s mental health. By understanding and addressing these challenges collaboratively, we can contribute to the well-being and resilience of the younger generation in an ever-changing world.

Whole interview is in the link:

https://www.pedagogicke.info/2023/11/politalk-deti-dnes-s-identitou-hodne.html