In pursuit of our mission, Groves has created a new Mental Health and Support Resources webpage to further assist parents, guardians, and caregivers as they seek to support their child’s mental health.
We’ve gathered information and links to resources on an array of mental health topics including the effects of trauma on children. We’ve included signs to look for when recognizing trauma by observing children’s reactions in stressful situations. We’ve also included information about the 3 Levels of Stress and understanding stress and resilience in children. You’ll find links to a video series from Head Start explaining how high levels of stress can impact a child’s well-being, plus a list of links to mental health resources, related articles, and parent and caregiver support groups.
Tending to the mental health of young children is a priority that can become a struggle even during “normal” events. New and sometimes traumatic experiences, such as those most of us have experienced this past year, may cause additional or new fears and anxieties. Young children are just learning to express their feelings with accuracy. Because of this, they let you know how they are feeling through their behaviors.
Recognizing Trauma
Students may react to stressful situations in one or more of the following ways:
- Change in regular sleep patterns including nightmares
- Change in eating habits
- Becoming clingy, whiny, angry, or sad
- Physical complaints without illness
- Fears (of the dark, being alone, or strangers)
3 Levels of Stress
When children experience stress that is excessive and prolonged it can interfere with their developing brains. The Center on the Developing Child describes three levels of stress:
- Positive—when stress helps a child learn to cope with challenges.
- Tolerable—when a child has a supportive environment and relationships with adults.
- Toxic—when stress is prolonged and there is no adult emotionally available for support.
Understanding Stress and Resilience in Children
Children who are more resilient in the face of adversity are better able to cope with negative situations that arise throughout their lives. One critical factor in building a child’s resilience is the presence of adults who support them during hardships.
Relationships with family and community members who provide warmth and support during challenging situations help a child learn strategies for coping. Helping children learn these strategies early can have lifelong impacts.
