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Mental Health and Depression:

Why Parents Should Support Their Children

By PinkiPublished about a year ago 3 min read
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Mental Health and Depression:
Photo by Total Shape on Unsplash

Mental health issues, particularly depression, can be a serious concern for individuals of all ages. However, it is particularly prevalent among young people who are in the process of discovering their identity and navigating the pressures of school, family, and social life. As a student, you may be struggling to balance the expectations of your parents, the stress of academic performance, the fear of failure, and the desire to have fun with your friends. All of these pressures can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression, which can have a significant impact on your well-being and future prospects.

One of the most significant factors contributing to depression and anxiety among young people is the expectation of their parents. While parents want the best for their children and often have high expectations of their academic and professional success, the pressure to live up to these expectations can be overwhelming for some. When young people feel as though they are not meeting their parents' expectations, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and low self-esteem, which can contribute to mental health issues like depression.

It is important for parents to recognize that their children's mental health is just as important as their academic and professional success. By placing too much emphasis on academic achievement, parents can inadvertently contribute to their children's feelings of stress and anxiety. Instead, parents should encourage their children to pursue their passions and interests, regardless of whether they align with traditional notions of success.

Parents should also strive to create an open and supportive environment in which their children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns. This means listening actively to their children, offering support and guidance, and seeking professional help when necessary. Parents should also encourage their children to engage in activities that promote mental health, such as exercise, meditation, and socialization.

At the same time, many young people are also dealing with the complexities of relationships and romance. Falling in love can be a thrilling and exciting experience, but it can also be accompanied by anxiety and fear of rejection. The fear of falling and being hurt can be particularly pronounced among young people who are still learning about themselves and their emotions. This fear can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression, which can be challenging to overcome.

Parents should be aware of the challenges their children may face in their romantic relationships and offer support and guidance when necessary. This means listening actively to their children's concerns, offering practical advice and encouragement, and helping them to navigate the complexities of romantic relationships in a healthy and positive way.

In addition to these pressures, many students are also dealing with academic stress. The pressure to perform well in school and get good grades can be intense, particularly in competitive environments. While some students thrive under these conditions, others may struggle to keep up with the demands of coursework and exams. For these students, the fear of failure can be all-consuming, leading to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Parents can help their children to manage academic stress by offering practical support and guidance. This means helping their children to prioritize their coursework, providing them with resources like tutoring and study groups, and encouraging them to take breaks and engage in stress-reducing activities like exercise and meditation.

Finally, young people also need time to have fun and enjoy their social lives. Spending time with friends, pursuing hobbies and interests, and engaging in extracurricular activities are all important for maintaining mental health and well-being. However, for some students, the pressure to succeed academically and meet the expectations of their parents can make it difficult to find time for these activities. This can lead to feelings of isolation, boredom, and depression.

Parents can help their children to find balance in their lives by encouraging them to pursue their hobbies and interests, engage in extracurricular activities,

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About the Creator

Pinki

Pinki is a student and aspiring writer with a passion for storytelling. She believes that words have the power to inspire and connect people from all walks of life. Join her on Vocal.media to read her unique perspective on the world.

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