Children’s Mental Health Beyond Academics: Expert Explains Behavioural Changes Parents Shouldn’t Ignore

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In our fast-paced daily life, we are falling behind in many aspects, and one of the most important among them is our children's mental health. Problems may arise, but the way they are handled, the guidance children receive and their reactions can sometimes misfire. The possible actions and consequences, and how they could affect their lives and families, are rarely thought about.

Dr Madhavi N, Consultant - Paediatrics, Gleneagles AWARE Hospital (A Fortis Healthcare Network Hospital), LB Nagar, Hyderabad, says parents need to pay closer attention to these concerns. With 16 years of experience as a medical expert and as a mother of two children, she believes that the changing dynamics of family life have made this even more important.

When Small Problems Become Bigger

"Families start small; problems grow big. Both parents being working professionals, lack of elders such as grandparents, grandmothers, uncles and aunts for support, absence of joint families, and relying on social media as a solution for everything become reasons", Dr Madhavi points out.

Children's mental health issues are turning into major problems, yet parents are still lagging behind. One of the most important steps, therefore, is also one of the simplest: parents need to wake up and spend time with their children.

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That connection can begin with ordinary conversations. When children return from school, parents can ask what they did that day, what they learned and how they spent their time. Inquiring about these small things can help parents notice concerns before they become bigger issues.

Do Not Dismiss A Child's Small Mistakes

Dr Madhavi stresses that small issues or problems should not be neglected. Parents need to figure out how to correct them, share their experiences and explain things extensively. A mistake may appear insignificant to an adult, but leaving it unaddressed can mean missing an opportunity to guide a child.

"It's just a small mistake, what does it matter?" should not become a reason to leave such issues aside. Children need to understand what is good and what is bad, and parents have an important role in explaining these differences to them.

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Social Media Cannot Replace Family Support

"Another concern is the growing tendency to look to social media for solutions to children's problems. Rather than seeking solutions to every concern online, parents should learn to discuss these issues with family members and get support from them", Dr Madhavi advises.

Family conversations can provide children with something that quick online solutions cannot always offer: consistent guidance, understanding and support.

Make Time For Your Children Every Day

"Ultimately, meaningful time together can make a significant difference. If every parent spends at least one hour happily and meaningfully with their children every day, a big difference can be seen", Dr Madhavi concludes.

For parents, this need not mean planning something elaborate every day. Asking about a child's day, listening to their concerns, sharing experiences and addressing small mistakes can all become part of that time. According to Dr. Madhavi, these everyday moments are an important part of supporting children's mental health and strengthening the family.