LETTER: We discuss topics ranging from diet, exercise routines and medical self-care openly. Unfortunately many cringe at the thought of discussing issues related to mental health even with the closest family members.
Ignorance and misconception has led mental health to be associated with mental illness, thus being the reason for hesitation to engage in open discussions.
Mental health refers to a person's condition with regards to his psychological and emotional well-being and has a huge impact on how one thinks, feels, acts, handles stress, relates to others, and makes choices in life.
It's unfortunate that this crucial component of health is not bestowed the much needed attention in the early stage of one's life. This could be the possible reason for the over 400, 000 children in Malaysia who are found to be grappling with mental health issues.
Though the staggering number of cases is a result of accumulative effects of various factors, communication is undoubtedly one of the major contributors. Communication is the foundation of human relationship, an essential skill which connects human beings and cements relationships.
Absence of communication and interaction especially among family members has a ripple effect which gradually leads to more severe damages.
A positive two-way communication is a boost to a child's self- esteem and mental development. Healthy communication which is regular and frequent is also crucial to gain our children's trust.
Parents need to ensure an honest and open communication in the family to create the environment where the children feel free and comfortable to approach, articulate and share their emotions.
It gives them the avenue to express their thoughts, emotions and expectations confidently. We need to ensure they are heard and understood and their views respected. It surely contributes in boosting their self -worth.
Listening actively and mindfully and responding genuinely is the first step to assist our children to open up. Children sense the degree of attentiveness we display and future communication is mainly decided by that.
It's our responsibility as parents to convince them of our (wholesome) physical and emotional presence during communication.
Quality communication with our children plays a crucial part in developing their communication skill which helps them to articulate clearly and confidently.
Social skills and interpersonal skills are naturally developed alongside communication skills and children armed with these skills are less likely to fall into the communication traps.
Repression, one of the major attributes of negative mental health is less obvious in children with these skills.
Developing effective communication is critical in creating successful family relationship and mentally healthy children who are ready to face the challenges thrown at them.
Let us nurture them with skills which are essential to assist them into becoming a physically, socially and mentally healthy generation. Let's drop the gadgets and bring back the good old 'human interaction' before it's too late.
SUGANDHI RAGHAVAN@SR2
TAMPIN
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times