How to check up on your child’s mental health

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. In a time where children’s mental health is becoming a bigger and bigger issue, here are some expert tips on how to check in with your child without being too overbearing… Build trust “You often need to build that foundation of safety and trust in the relationship, because people will only talk about their mental health if they feel safe enough to be able do so,” explains Seb Thompson, clinical psychologist at Cygnet Health Care. Don’t assume.” Spend time together without pressure “Doing something side by side, like cooking, going for a walk, or playing a game, can make it easier for children to open up,” suggests Dr Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic. “Equally, if you’ve got someone who’s naturally quite shy but starts becoming very extroverted, that could also be a sign they are struggling with something or something else might be going on.” Changes in eating or sleeping habits, or withdrawal from social activities could also be indicative of a larger issue, adds Thompson. “Remind them that you’re there to listen and, if needed, offer external support, whether that’s a teacher, counsellor, or mental health professional.”