Marriage Counseling Saved My Marriage

Posted on: 14 July 2023

Most parents often prioritize their children's physical well-being and try to protect them from any harm. However, they tend to overlook the impact of emotional or psychological events on their child's mental health.

Unlike physical injuries that can be seen almost immediately, psychological damage takes time to manifest, and sometimes it may go unnoticed. This article describes a few common situations that might induce long-term trauma in children, albeit subtly.

Divorce

Divorce is a common experience that many families go through. While it can be challenging for adults to navigate, it can be much harder for children to understand. They might feel confused, angry, insecure, and powerless when their parents no longer live together.

And when their parents' separation is accompanied by conflict and negative emotions, it can leave a lasting impact on children's well-being. Children may feel abandoned, resentful, and confused, which can potentially lead to psychological issues such as anxiety or depression in the future.

As a parent, make sure to provide emotional support for your child during this time, and consider counseling to help your child manage their emotions. You can also show your child that you are still a family even though you're no longer living together.

For example, you can set aside family time for everyone and stay connected with your child by having regular conversations. This can help your child learn to manage their emotions and cope with the changes.

Bullying

Bullying is another everyday situation that children are likely to encounter, whether at school or online. Being consistently subjected to verbal or physical abuse can make children feel helpless and vulnerable, ultimately affecting their self-esteem. In some cases, this can lead to depression and even suicidal thoughts.

These children may feel unworthy or depressed and can develop anxiety-related disorders in the long term. They might even fear going to school or withdraw from social activities.

As a parent, you need to talk to your child and openly discuss the issue. Encourage them to speak up and explain how it is making them feel. You can also explore professional depression counseling or other forms of therapy if necessary.

Here, your child can learn how to manage their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms with the help of a professional. They will listen to your child and create a supportive environment where they can share their experiences without fear of judgment.

Everyday situations like divorce, bullying, and even loss can have long-term effects on children's mental health. As a parent, it's your responsibility to prevent such situations and mitigate their impact. You have to prioritize your child's emotional well-being and create supportive environments where they can share their experiences and receive appropriate professional interventions.

For more information on trauma treatment for youth, contact a professional near you.