Mental Health Awareness for Parents and Children
May Matters – Supporting Mental Health for Parents and Children
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a vital time to reflect on the emotional wellbeing of ourselves and our families. At CHEXS, we understand how overwhelming life can feel, especially for parents juggling responsibilities while supporting their children’s growth. This month, we want to open up the conversation around mental health and remind families that you are not alone.
Common Mental Health Challenges Families Face
It’s completely normal for both parents and children to go through difficult emotional periods. Anxiety, low mood, stress, and burnout are increasingly common, not just in adults, but in young people too. Changes in behaviour, withdrawal from activities, sleep disturbances, or sudden emotional outbursts can all be signs of a child or parent silently struggling.
Family life is filled with ups and downs, and sometimes, the pressure to “hold it all together” can take a toll on our mental wellbeing. That’s why encouraging awareness and support within the family unit is more important than ever.
Promoting Open Communication
The most powerful tool we have is connection. Creating a home environment where emotions are acknowledged, not ignored, is the first step toward better mental health. Here are some simple ways to start:
- Create a regular check-in routine – Ask your children how their day was and how they’re feeling emotionally, not just academically. Be mindful that constant questions can feel overwhelming, so mix it up: sometimes just sitting nearby, offering a reassuring presence, or sending a quick visual check-in (a thumbs-up/thumbs-down text or emoji) can speak louder than words.
- Model openness – When parents express their feelings honestly (within reason), children feel safer doing the same.
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Use creative tools – Drawing, journaling, or even a “feelings jar” can help children who struggle to articulate what’s going on inside.
Recognising the Signs of Distress
Mental health challenges don’t always look the same. For some, it may appear as sadness or irritability. For others, it might look like perfectionism, withdrawal, or even physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches.
Keep an eye out for:
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Sudden changes in behaviour or sleep patterns
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Loss of interest in hobbies or school
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Difficulty concentrating or increased frustration
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Talking about feeling worthless or overwhelmed
Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts, if something feels off, it’s worth reaching out.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, family support needs to be paired with expert guidance. There’s strength in seeking help, not weakness. Whether it’s a GP, Mental health Lead in school – Mental health support team through school , or a local service like CHEXS, there are professionals ready to support both parents and children through tough times. Other mental-health support and helplines are MIND, SHOUT, HPFT CAMHS crisis line, Samaritans, HOPELINE, Young Minds. There is always some to talk to 24/7.
If you or your child is experiencing mental health concerns that aren’t improving over time, please don’t wait. Reach out. Early support can make a big difference.
Deaf Awareness Week: Inclusion and Understanding
May also marks Deaf Awareness Week, a time to celebrate inclusivity and remind ourselves of the mental health challenges faced by the Deaf community. Communication barriers, isolation, and lack of awareness can have a real impact on mental health. By promoting understanding, using inclusive language, and ensuring accessibility, we can help build a more compassionate community for all families, hearing and Deaf alike.
CHEXS is Here for You
Whether you’re a parent feeling stretched too thin, or you’re worried about your child’s emotional wellbeing, CHEXS is here to help. We offer a safe, supportive space to talk, connect, and find practical solutions, because no one should have to face mental health challenges alone.
💚 You matter. Your child matters. And support is always available.
Please reach out to the CHEXS team if you have any concerns about mental health, communication, or simply need a listening ear. We’re here for you, this month and every month.
