In a report by Pew Research Center (2023), US parents with younger children (under 18) reported they were extremely or very worried that their children might struggle with anxiety or depression at some point. Mental health concerns topped the list at 40% of parents with bullying following at 35%.
Biological factors of depression and anxiety include neurotransmitters that play a significant role in regulating mood, hormonal changes, and genetics. Psychological factors include negative thought patterns, trauma, and stress.
As a parent, it is difficult to manage or control the biological and psychological factors that contribute to mental health. This is why medical doctors, psychologists, and social workers are imperative in the treatment of these issues. However, environmental factors such as social pressures, family dynamics, and social media influence also play a role in the mental health of individuals. This is where parenting contributes to the well-being and mental health of our children.
Being part of a faith community insulates all of us in many protective ways. Religion has a great impact on well-being. Faith communities provide social support, a sense of belonging, unique coping strategies (like prayer, journaling), promote positive emotions (such as gratitude, peace, compassion, love), and provide a sense of meaning and purpose. We as parents and caregivers are the beginning and foundation of this faith community. We set the tone and groundwork for the greater faith community (churches, youth groups, private spiritual moments) to have impact and meaning.
It falls to parents to begin the work of laying down the protective factors of faith. We start off with our overall attitude and vibe as a parent. As parents, we should want to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, intellectual curiosity, and spiritual enrichment. This begins with how we interact with our children and the questions/activities we engage in.
We as parents and caregivers are the beginning and foundation of this faith community. We set the tone and groundwork for the greater faith community (churches, youth groups, private spiritual moments) to have impact and meaning.
Dr. cherri seese
Be sure to explore the questions and guided conversations resources on this website. You will see how having intentional, curious, and open conversations can not only provide emotional and spiritual support for our children, but it also engages us as parents into a deeper relationship with Christ as we look to him for guidance and direction.
And remember, the idea of these questions or guided conversations is not for the parent to have the right answer. They are designed to create a space to hear your child’s heart and concerns so that you can assist them in navigating thinking and feeling spaces that include God’s truth and beauty. These activities are not chores on a “to-do” list but an opportunity to grow in relationship with your child and Creator.
