As schools break for the August holidays marking an end to term two of the school calendar, a Murang’a based counselling psychologist has implored parents to watch out for any signs of distress in their children so as to arrest any mental health issues early.

Purity Gachukia observes that any sudden change in behavior in a child ought to alarm a parent as that is the only way to detect any mental health issues that ultimately impact the social, emotional, physical and cognitive well-being of a child and those around him or her.

‘We have heard cases of suicides in colleges and universities meaning the young people are going through challenges that can only be brought to light and tackled by first identifying the root cause,’ she notes adding that, ‘Despite the daily busy schedules, try to spend quality time with your children during the schools’ break’.

Gachukia observes that a parent should get concerned if a child who was previously active and upbeat suddenly becomes withdrawn and lacks energy and enthusi
asm in the activities that would previously interest him or her.

‘Create a rapport with them by ensuring your presence and home environment is a safe haven where they can open up without judgement as some may have gone through an unpleasant incident in schools that will damage their self-esteem if not dealt with early’ she notes.

For the younger school going children, the psychologist warns parents against overburdening them by giving them adult responsibilities.

‘Let the children be children, let them play with their peers but ensure their safety, give them enough room to explore their childhood’ she warns.

According to her, parents should closely monitor what the children are watching on the TV and how much time they are spending on the screen as outdoor activities are equally important.

‘As you give them smart phones and internet access, explain to them the dangers of unsupervised and uncontrolled social media usage in black and white, do not leave any grey areas as they would want to explore and find
out on their own’ she adds.

The psychologist reiterated the need to take the time to motivate, play, advice and listen to the children and not to forget to administer discipline but by first letting the child understand why they are being disciplined.

‘Teach and allow the children to speak up for themselves from an early age,’ she notes.

The Kenyan primary and secondary schools have closed for three weeks and will reopen on August 27 for the third and final term of the school calendar.

Source: Kenya News Agency