Supporting our children in managing the complexities and pressures of modern life is more important than ever. Figures released in the most recent Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) report showed that an increasing number of children in Scotland are waiting to be seen by mental health services.

Every child has the inherent potential to face and overcome obstacles. Resilience isn’t merely an innate trait some possess, and others lack; rather, it’s a dynamic skill that evolves with experience and age. In this article, Dr Michelle Muniz, the director of Purple House Clinic Glasgow, a private mental healthcare clinic, provides valuable advice on building mental resilience.

Quality time over quantity

Children flourish within the nurturing embrace of genuine relationships. Try to dedicate quality moments of time to your children. Setting aside your digital distractions and giving undivided attention to your child is crucial. When children feel that unwavering support, they are more inclined to reach out for guidance, share their fears, and confidently navigate the maze of life’s challenges. Such positive connections not only help them to vocalise their feelings but also to understand and process them, paving the way for emotional maturity and resilience.

Find learning opportunities

Avoid immediately resolving issues for your child. While certain situations may require immediate adult intervention, many instances serve as golden opportunities for children to grow. By allowing them to grapple with challenges, they not only learn to find solutions on their own but also develop critical problem-solving skills. This hands-on experience in handling difficulties bolsters their confidence and teaches them perseverance. In the long run, fostering this sense of independence and resourcefulness in children equips them to face life’s myriad challenges with resilience and tenacity.

Embrace imperfections

Fearing mistakes can stunt resilience and often correlates with heightened anxiety in children. When achievement is the sole focus, children become ensnared in a binary mindset of success or failure, pushing them to sidestep any risks. Recognising and embracing mistakes, not just in your children but as adults and guardians, fosters a culture of continuous learning and encourages a growth-oriented mindset. Encourage your child to have another go when things don’t work out the first time, and see what lessons you can learn.

Get outdoors

Exercise is not just beneficial for the body; it also fortifies the brain, enhancing its ability to combat stress and tackle adversities. Engaging in regular physical activity releases endorphins that boost brain health and help foster mental resilience. Problem-solving, teamwork, imagination, creativity, and a sense of autonomy are all qualities integral to helping build mental resilience. Sports and other similar activities help us with qualities that stretch far beyond winning and losing. They present unique opportunities to learn and grow, as well as being a great way to create new social connections.

How to navigate trauma and major life changes

Navigating trauma and major life changes such as bullying, illness or bereavement in children demands a compassionate, patient, and proactive approach. At the core of helping a child through such experiences is the establishment of a consistent, safe, and nurturing environment where they can express their feelings without judgment. Open communication is crucial: encourage them to discuss their emotions, but also give them the space and time they need to process events at their own pace. Seeking professional assistance, such as therapy or counselling, can provide tailored strategies to address the specific nature of the trauma.

In today’s rapidly changing world, children are confronted with unprecedented challenges, making it imperative to equip them with the tools they need to thrive. The recent surge in the number of children in Scotland awaiting mental health services underscores the urgency of this task. But by dedicating genuine moments of connection, teaching children to learn from their struggles, embracing imperfections, encouraging physical activity, and thoughtfully navigating traumatic experiences, we pave the way for our younger generation to grow into robust, resilient adults.