How can we support our childrens mental health as we embark on a new school year?

Summer is a time to unwind and enjoy being unscheduled for both parents and children. In the blink of an eye, it seems, fall is upon us. The anticipation of school and schedules can be anxiety provoking for us all. How can we make this transition easier for our kids and support their mental health?

Here are the 3 things I think about when talking about mental health in children and teens.

  1. Prioritize sleep. Sleep determines our mood, attention and ability to learn. In the weeks before school begins, start implementing your more structured schedule slowly. Teens need AT LEAST 8 hours of sleep per night. Tech is the major disruptor of sleep for children and teens. The light from our phones inhibits our brains' own release of melatonin, keeping us more awake and alert. Plugging in devices OUTSIDE of your child’s room (yes, EVEN TEENS) is a rule that I think every family should consider. Caring about your child’s mental health starts with protecting their sleep. Help them understand why this is a priority.

  2. Healthy use of technology. Technology is an integral part of life and very important to your children and teens. We know that technology has a unique effect on the teen brain as it is developing. Technology itself is neither good nor bad, but the way we interact with it will determine its effect on the brain. When kids are using their technology to connect with others and promote and enhance in person social interactions, it can help to boost their mental health. On the other hand, we often see kids mindlessly scrolling through social media, allowing them to isolate themselves for long periods of time. This poses a risk to their mental health and can fuel depression and anxiety.

  3. Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Being a teen today is stressful. We do not have to wait for a critical moment to reach out to a professional for help when we are concerned about our teens mental health. I like to think of mental health professionals as emotional coaches or tutors who can help build resilience in our teens. Initiating therapy can take time and your teen may not initially embrace the idea. Help to normalize this for them and involve them in the process. Go online and read through local therapists profiles to see who they may connect with. Support them through this by letting them know what to expect.

To all the mamas out there working tirelessly and worrying endlessly about your kids, I SEE YOU. Remember…supporting your own physical and mental health will allow you to better care for all the others that depend on you.


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Dr. Carrie Leff

Dr. Carrie Leff is a board certified Pediatrician and Internist and Certified Menopause Provider who practices primary care through The Henry Ford Medical Group in Southeastern Michigan.  Her clinical focus includes full spectrum primary care for adolescent girls and women; including eating disorders, treatment of mental health issues, menopause and sexual health.  Dr. Leff received her undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and completed her medical degree at Midwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. 

In 2015, Dr. Leff co-founded Turning Teen (www.turningteen.com), a company which provides educational workshops about puberty for parents and children.  The goal of the programs is to help transition adolescents through puberty without shame or embarrassment.  She is passionate about empowering parents with the language and knowledge on how to tackle important and difficult conversations with their children.  Dr. Leff is the author of the book, “Celebrate your Body 2: The Ultimate Puberty Book for Preteen and Teen Girls,” which is a body-positive guide to puberty for girls ages 10 and older.   

https://www.turningteen.com/
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