Life can be hard, and we often forget just how hard it can be to be a kid. We all remember the fun and carefree days, but we don't always think about those tough ones. Most of us would probably rather forget the days we felt lonely, anxious, sad, or like we just didn't fit in. When those feelings become overwhelming, it's not always easy to ask for help. That's why it's so important to talk to your kids now. Don't wait. Make sure they know you're there for them, no matter what, and that they can talk to you about anything.
Don't even get me started on the teen years! I remember what a struggle that was. Everything can feel like the end of the world, and in that moment, it really does. Thinking about the future can be scary, especially for kids like me who had no idea what they wanted to do, while it seemed like everyone around them had a plan.
And we can't forget the elephant in the room, even though it's been years since our kids were doing school from home . . . and I don't mean homeschooling. The effects of that time may not have disappeared completely. Some kids fared better than others, and many seem fine, but difficult experiences can leave a mark that isn't always visible.
Sometimes we grown-ups get so wrapped up in our everyday struggles and the extra challenges we're dealing with that we just assume our kids are OK. Most of the time they are, but sometimes they're not. Remember, when something is going on and you try not to burden your kids, they still sense it. They might not know all the details, but what's going can affect them, too so pay attention to how they are doing, and reassure them.
If your kids are struggling, know they are not alone. One in seven children ages 6 to 17 experience some kind of mental health disorder, according to the National Alliance of Mental Illness - NAMI.
Having a safe space, whether that's with you or another trusted adult, is vital for children. They need to know they can talk about their emotions and what they are going through in their day-to-day lives without judgment.
👉 List of Mental Health Resources and Support Organizations
 aleksandrdavydovphotos via Canva |
Need Help Getting Started?
Sometimes, starting the conversation is the hardest part. Here are a few questions to help you get started:
- Have you checked in with your child lately to see how they're doing?
- Have you talked about how they feel about the world around them?
- Have you asked what they're looking forward to or worried about when they think about the future?
- Have you made space to talk about growing up, friendships, and changes in their bodies?
- You don't have to have all the answers. The important thing is to listen without judgment and let your child
- Know they have a support system of family, friends, and other trusted adults who care about them.
Our children need to know: They are not alone.
List of mental health resources and support organizations
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - Dial 988
Crisis Text Line Text 741741 - For anyone, in any type of crisis to connect with a crisis counselor
Lifeline Chat - 24 hours a day, seven days a week connects people to the nearest crisis center
SAMHSA’s National Helpline - Call 800-662-HELP (4357)
The Trevor Project - services for LGBTQ+ youth Call 866-488-7386
Therapy for Black Girls - An online space dedicated to the mental wellness of Black women and girls.
Local Mental Health Resources
Ventura County
- Interface of Ventura County: dial 2-1-1 or call 800-399-9597
- National Alliance on Mental Illness - NAMI Ventura County: Providing advocacy, support, education and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness | Helpline: 805-500-6264 | Resources and Crisis Information | Classes and Programs | Calendar of Events
- Ventura County Health Care Agency
- Ventura County Behavioral Health: The Ventura County Behavioral Health Department - VCBH, provides mental health and substance use treatment services | Youth and Family | Adult Services | 24/7 Confidential help; Crisis and Referral Line: 866-998-2243 | Substance Use Treatment Access Line: 844-385-9200 | Foster Youth Hotline 833-939-3877 | Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call 988
Los Angeles County
- National Alliance on Mental Illness, Greater Los Angeles County - NAMI GLAC: Providing advocacy, support, education and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness | Immediate help in crisis: call 988 | CalHOPE Warmline at 818-208-1801
- National Alliance on Mental Illness, Urban Los Angeles - NAMI
- National Alliance on Mental Illness, San Fernando Valley - NAMI: Providing advocacy, support, education and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness | Helpline: 818-994-6747
- Health Services Los Angeles County - Mental Health: General Information
844-804-0055 | 24/7 helpline: 800-854-7771 or text 741741 - Mental Health American of Los Angeles: Works to ensure people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives, serving low-income adults and transition-age youth, Veterans and people experiencing homelessness | 888-242-2522
- 211 LA - Mental Health Resources: Dial 2-1-1
🚨 In the event of a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Originally written by Jestine Mayes, a former Macaroni KID publisher, updated by Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas
