Mental Health: Why It's So Vital Right Now

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. This Pandemic has put mental health front and center. Mental health affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.

Mental health is vital in every stage of life and development from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. The first step in acknowledging our need for mental health is to take care of our physical bodies with exercise and nutrition and doctor visits. We get medicine when we need it for an infection or an injury.

Let’s be sure we take care of our mental health, too. And in times of stress, no matter the root, talk to your doctor or call a counselor, seek more support, and know that you’re not weak for doing so. You’re strong for recognizing that you need it... not only for you, but for your family. And know that upon arrival, you will notice that you are not alone. But taking that first step is the most important part.

Caring for a child with a disability can also be challenging and stressful. We as parents and caregivers sometimes forget to take care of ourselves as much as we do our children. But research suggests the importance of a regular sleep routine as part of a healthy lifestyle. It’s also noted that teens should have a scheduled routine to sleep and awaken to times that fits with their online learning schedule and provides opportunities to interact with their peers and family.

The pandemic has affected our ability to interact socially, and we need it the most. Being creative by allowing teens to interact on social media has helped us tremendously. I believe keeping the lines of communication open during this time is important. It is recommended that you ask open-ended questions, but don’t force it. We know what it feels like to be forced to talk about something you have no area of reference in. Give them and yourself the necessary space to feel and be. It allows them to be able to express what they are feeling and we are allowed to process and adjust our lives accordingly.