The US Surgeon General has called our youth’s mental health a crisis and wake up call. Last December with the pandemic, Vivek Murthy, M.D. called on this nation “to take better care of our youth with the messages they are bombarded with on social media” The US Surgeon General Murphy also points out the need for better support for children and families in schools, at home, and in our communities.
During this turbulent time, a mindful practice may be essential. You may have heard how mindful techniques can benefit you personally. Earlier research shows children with mindful parents, tend to become more resilient. The youth who are taught mindfulness are less likely to do drugs or become depressed and anxious.
One study out of the University of Vermont surveyed over 600 parents who participated in a mindfulness program for parents. Their children ranged in ages from 3-17. In an article out of Mindful Magazine suggests “encouraging more mindful, responsive parenting—and less harsh punishments or yelling—may indirectly help kids to avoid some of the at risk behavior of adolescence—like anxiety, depression, acting out, and drug use.”
What are some takeaways?
It’s not just about being more positive. It’s more important for a parent to be emotionally attuned to their child than to be either positive or negative in their interactions The research suggests the following three key factors to keep in mind about mindful parents.
- Noticing your own feelings when you’re in conflict with your child,
- Learning to pause before responding in anger,
- Listening carefully to a child’s viewpoint even when disagreeing with it.
Sounds like good advice for all of us to remember when in conflict. Children and teens can also learn these same skills.
Why Mindful Parenting?
Being more in tune with our feelings or reactions — pausing before overreacting — will make a difference in our health and happiness. Justin Parent, lead author of the study says, “To bring mindful attention and awareness into your interactions with your child really seems to set the stage for you to be a good parent.” The research also shows more mindful parenting engaged in more positive and less negative parenting behavior which then linked to more positive behavior in their kids. This tended to result in their children showing less anxiety, depression, and acting out.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
In honor of Mental Health Month in May, we are offering a 20% Special Discount for Inner Peace Time. A number of mindful breathing techniques and guided visualizations are geared for children and teens to do with parents on one side. Parents and Adults can enjoy their own 5 to 10 minutes of bliss on the other side of the app.
Wishing you the best!
Vicki
Vicki Atlas Israel is a Mindset and Meditation Coach, and the Amazon bestselling author of “Inner Power NOW.” The Foreword is written by #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Jack Canfield, co-creator of “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” High-achievers hire Vicki to improve their wellbeing to live their best life. Vicki is also passionate about bringing more inner peace to parents, children, and those who work with children.