Many children entering the foster care system also face mental health issues. Caregivers play a unique role in helping their foster children address these challenges. Understanding what to look for and how to help children struggling with mental health can prepare caregivers with the tools they need to provide positive support and care.
The Prevalence of Mental Health Challenges in Youth
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20 percent of children between the ages of thirteen and eighteen are living with mental illness. The rates of serious mental health issues are even more striking in youth placed in foster care. The latest statistics indicate that approximately 80 percent of children in foster care have signnificnat mental health concerns.
How Foster Parents Can Help
Fortunately, there are lots of things that foster parents can do to help foster kids who struggle with anxiety or depression. Here are some of the best ways that foster parents can help youth in their care who struggle with mental health concerns.
1. Know the Warning Signs of Depression and Anxiety
Many children do not receive the psychological care they need for various reasons, including barriers to access, denial, and resistance on behalf of the child. Identifying children who may be dealing with depression and anxiety is important. Early intervention is key to getting them the necessary help to overcome their challenges and have a positive outcome. This is why it’s so important to recognize early signs of anxiety and depression.
Many symptoms of depression and anxiety are similar. Some children may exhibit several signs, while others may not show many at all. Becoming familiar with the following signs will put you in a better position to get your foster the help they need.
● Increased irritability and agitation
● An inability to deal with change or stress
● Decreased contact with friends or isolation
● No longer interested in activities they enjoy
● Lower academic performance
● Inability to concentrate or focus
● Sleeping too much or insomnia
● Expressing reoccurring fears in regards to daily tasks
● Hypersensitivity to criticism
● Panic attacks and sudden bouts of fear
● Avoiding new or challenging situations
● Complaints of frequent stomachaches or headaches
● Drug or alcohol use
If your foster child shows any of these signs, you should never ignore them. They may indicate depression, anxiety, or other psychological issues. Seek professional help and learn how to provide your child with positive ways to take care of their mental health.
2. Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle
There is a strong connection between lifestyle and mental health. Helping your child establish healthy habits will encourage a more positive mindset, boost confidence, and improve their mood. One healthy habit you can promote is regular exercise. Exercise releases endorphins, which are responsible for reducing pain and stress while increasing feelings of well-being. Making exercise fun is the key to getting your child excited about working out. Find an activity they enjoy, like basketball, rollerblading, or soccer, and head to the park. You could also suggest going on a daily walk together to stay active while enjoying quality time.
A growing body of research has found a link between poor diet and mental health, especially in adolescents. Diets high in processed foods, fat, and sugar often lack the vitamins children need to support healthy growth. In addition, a studyconducted in 2016 showed a relationship between low-quality diets and higher rates of depression. You can promote positive mental health by providing them with a well-balanced diet full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and water. While establishing a healthy diet and exercise routine may not fully address your child’s psychological needs, it is an excellent way to support overall health.
3. Provide Emotional Support
Offering emotional support to your child is a helpful way to assist them as they cope with anxiety and depression. As their caregiver, you are their primary source of comfort, and your job is to provide a stable and positive family structure. By giving support and listening to their concerns without passing judgement, your foster is more likely to approach you when they need help. Many caregivers are unsure how to provide emotional support, especially if their child seems resistant. Some ways you can support their mental health include:
● Acknowledging their struggles
● Spending quality time with them doing things they enjoy
● Encouraging open conversations
● Providing a listening ear when they need it
Remember to refrain from passing judgement and provide your child with support to help them navigate this challenging time. While not all children are willing to talk about their concerns, it’s necessary to still provide them with the opportunity to do so. In addition, keeping an “open door policy” will help them feel more comfortable approaching you in the future. You should also reach out to their caseworker and seek professional help if you believe your child is struggling.
4. Encourage Healthy Social Connections
One of the most helpful ways you can assist your child is by encouraging healthy social connections. Like adults, when children feel socially connected to their communities, they are less likely to develop substance abuse or mental health issues later in life. Connecting with their peers can also help them overcome depression and anxiety. Encourage them to join a club at school or attend youth events to increase their social circle.
If your foster child is apprehensive about engaging at school, you can schedule playdates or sleepovers at your home to give them a safe environment to socialize with their friends. Helping your child establish bonds within their community will not only support positive mental health but will also help them feel more comfortable in their surroundings.
Many children involved with the foster care system have a history of complex trauma, which may lead to psychological issues. By learning to identify signs of depression and anxiety and providing a supportive home environment, foster families can give their children the help they need to facilitate positive mental health and increase their quality of life.