A Strong Start: Supporting Mental Health at Every Stage of Childhood and Adolescence

Like planting seeds for a healthy tree, nurturing mental health early in life helps it grow into a strong, resilient foundation for the future. Each November, we celebrate Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month, a powerful reminder that it is never too early to nurture and prioritize a child’s mental health. In the article below, we explore the importance of building a strong mental health foundation from infancy through high school, with key strategies to support well-being at each developmental stage.

Infants and Toddlers

The first five years of life are a critical period for a child’s development—physically, mentally, and emotionally. During this time, a child’s brain undergoes rapid growth, forming new neural connections and pruning away those that aren’t used. This makes the brain highly adaptable, or “plastic,” shaping itself in response to the experiences and environment surrounding it. To support healthy brain development, proper nutrition is essential, as is prioritizing real-life interaction over screen time. Creating a safe and stable environment, free from abuse and neglect, is equally vital in protecting babies from the harmful effects of chronic stress, setting a strong foundation for their mental health. 

Elementary Schoolers

Elementary school is a pivotal time for mental health as kids begin to socialize, develop emotionally, and form a distinct sense of self. During this period of growth and discovery, it’s important to foster their creativity, which plays a crucial role in developing emotional regulation skills. Encouraging involvement in physical activities—such as dance, soccer, or other sports—not only supports physical health but also enhances brain function and reduces the risk of mental illness. Since children develop lasting habits by age nine, this is the ideal time to model and reinforce healthy habits, such as regular sleep, balanced nutrition, and healthy conflict resolution. 

Middle Schoolers 

As children enter middle school, they encounter new challenges and transitions, from navigating puberty and increased academic demands to managing social pressures. As they move away from their preteen years, it’s natural for them to seek greater autonomy, often pulling away from their parents to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and social connections. Creating an environment where middle schoolers feel seen, heard, and understood is essential while also providing them with the tools to confidently navigate challenges on their own. 

High Schoolers

High school is a whirlwind of social, emotional, and personal changes. All at once, teens navigate academics, extracurriculars, friendships, family commitments, drama, and planning for future goals. To minimize the effects of stress, it’s important to encourage teens to limit social media use, prioritize self-care, and build a strong support system. For high schoolers in particular, the effects of mental health challenges can be severe and, sometimes, life-altering. One in every five teens has seriously considered suicide, with stigma and fear often being one of the biggest barriers to seeking help. Today—and every day—I encourage you to start a conversation about mental health. Remember, sometimes,  just one person’s willingness to listen can make all the difference.