Our self-concept plays a huge role in our mental health. When we don’t feel good about ourselves, we’re more likely to feel anxious, guilty, scared, or sad. We may worry more about past mistakes, feel like we’re unable to do the things we want to do, or struggle to believe that we are loved or lovable.
While the internet can bring many positive things to the lives of young people, it can also be dangerous, with a real risk of cyberbullying, sexual victimisation, and harassment. Despite the ubiquity of the internet in adolescents’ lives, young people are often unable to navigate the internet safely.
Social support can be especially meaningful between individuals who have shared experiences of grief and loss. When someone experiences a sudden and unexpected death, the grieving process can feel very different to when a death is expected, such as following a long illness. There may not be people they are close to who have had a similar experience, and this can feel isolating and lonely.
Timely intervention can prevent BPD traits from developing and intensifying and lead to earlier recovery. It also prevents much of the social and psychological harm that can result from BPD, such as the development of other mental health disorders or patterns of unstable and damaging relationships.
Like adults, children and young people also benefit from the restorative power of nature. Spending more time outdoors and in green spaces may help reduce mental health symptoms among an age group that’s particuarly vulnerable to mental health disorders.
Many children and adolescents have experienced some form of trauma. They may have experienced a death or loss in their family or among friends. Or they may have experienced attachment trauma when parents have been unable to meet their needs. Some children are exposed to violence in their community or in society, especially when countries experience instability and war.
One pattern of social media use that has drawn the attention of researchers is self-presentation and social comparison. Numerous studies have connected these behavioural patterns to negative mental health consequences, including perfectionism and eating disorders.
Like adolescents and adults with the disorder, young children also experience extreme mood swings with high and low episodes. However, these episodes can manifest in slightly different ways.
Like any person with an eating problem, children under 12 with early-onset eating disorders should receive professional support as soon as possible. Early interventions are associated with better outcomes, and treatment approaches have been adapted by researchers and professionals to effectively support young children.
Have any questions or want to get started with the admissions process? Contact our friendly care team – they’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have and will walk you through how to prepare for your child’s stay at The Wave.
