Be Mindful: Taking care of kids’ mental health

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- We take care of their physical health, but experts say it's just as important for parents to help children develop good mental health.

Jody baumstein, licensed therapist, says it's important to get ahead of potential issues that could impact your children.

"It's natural for us to not bring things up until it's top of mind or until it's a problem. The issue with that is that kids are looking to us. They need a guide."

Baumstein says when parents talk about mental health, it's important they be open and honest.

Baumstein says if it's never talked about, that's sending a message that it's off limits.

Instead she says to create a comfortable space where kids can ask questions.

Talk about feelings, and grow into adults who do that. She says to normalize these conversations.

"Validate their questions, their curiosity, their confusion, whatever feelings they have validating that experience. That's what creates a sense of safety."

Baumstein says it's also important to use age-appropriate language that's clear, and concise, so that it doesn't feel like it's over their head.

She says to also check for clarity, making sure a child understands.

Finally, Baumstein says to encourage them to not only ask for help, but to receive it. She says a good way to do that is by modeling it yourself.

"Show them that it's ok to talk to a friend, lean on someone for support. It's also ok to get help from a licensed professional."