Mental and emotional health is fundamental to good general health and wellbeing. There are strong links between the emotional well-being of children and young people and their personal and social development and academic performance. They need healthy, supportive and stimulating environments with a clear focus on, and commitment to, helping them develop high self-esteem and good relationships and become confident, happy and ambitious people. The years of adolescence and young adulthood are ones of upheaval, change, and growth. How one meets the challenges of these years will to some extent determine their future. Learning the skills needed to handle emotional problems will give you a foundation of mental and emotional health.
Coping with a Parent's Job Loss
A job loss is never easy. The kids still need to eat, the bills still need to be paid, and somehow, a family must manage to stay strong and optimistic. Is it possible for a family to survive financially and emotionally under such circumstances, and even benefit from the situation? Learn more…
Addressing Behavior Issues
Every parent will be relieved to know, that less than perfect behaviors are a normal part of growing up. Sadly, for some children, any attention, good or bad, is still attention. Disruptive or hurtful actions should not be allowed. This is where disciplining a child comes into play. Learn more …
Self-Image
Our self-image begins to form at a young age. If we are praised and encouraged, we begin to be more adventuresome and risk takers feeling confident about our abilities. We smile, hold our heads high and try new things. Why not start today with these simple ways to build self-esteem. Learn more…
I Didn't Do It
If you're a parent, you've heard the phrase, "I didn't do it" from your child. But the truth is – accidents happen. It's essential that parents teach children honesty and integrity, and most of all, it's okay to take responsibility for your actions. Learn more…
Bedtime
Every parent has heard, "No night, night," "I'm not sleepy!" or "Just a few more minutes, please…" from their child when it's time to go to bed. And that's why parents often report bedtime as one of the most challenging times of the day. Try these quick tips to make sure your child has sweet dreams. Learn more…
What is Emotional Health?
Emotional health has many aspects. Put simply, it is based on self-esteem-how you feel about yourself-and behavior that is appropriate and healthy. Someone who is emotionally healthy:
- Understands and adapts to change
- Copes with stress and anxiety
- Has a positive self-concept and self-esteem
- Has the ability to love and care for others
- Can act independently to meet his or her own needs
What is Positive Self-Esteem?
Positive self-esteem is almost universally viewed as the foundation for emotional and social well-being and health. Self-esteem is feeling that:
- We are valued by others
- We feel competent
- We are capable of success
- We are able to manage our emotions
People with low self-esteem often have low expectations for success and are unable to make the best use of their talents. Those with higher self-esteem are more likely to be autonomous, resist peer pressure, take up opportunities and achieve their goals.
Happy Parents Lead to Happy Children
Parents are so often consumed with giving and taking care of children, they forget to take care of themselves. Many times parents feel guilty or selfish if they aren't totally focused and giving to their children. But the opposite is actually true. Taking care of ourselves and making time for our own interests can help us be better parents and caregivers. Learn more…