In recent years, the rise in teen depression and suicide cases has become a growing concern for communities worldwide. With an increasing number of incidents occurring within schools, malls, and other public spaces, it has become crucial to address these issues and understand the underlying causes. To shed light on this important topic, Mariam Munir, a family coach, joined Momkast for a conversation on trauma-informed parenting and its role in supporting children’s mental well-being.
Trauma-informed parenting emphasizes teaching parents empathetic and gentle ways to communicate and connect with their children. It acknowledges that no parent intends to harm their child, but rather, they may resort to harmful behavior due to a lack of knowledge and coping mechanisms. By creating a safe environment, trauma-informed coaching guides parents on effective communication strategies, helping them break the cycle of harmful behaviors they may have experienced themselves.
During the discussion, Mariam Munir highlighted the misconception that depression is solely an issue for adults and explained that depression is not age-related but rather experience-related. Even young children as young as 2-3 years old can exhibit signs of depression, such as anhedonia or selective mutism. Mariam emphasized the importance of recognizing and validating children’s emotions and experiences, breaking the societal dismissal that undermines the impact of early childhood trauma.
The conversation went into the tragic incident of a 6th-grade girl who jumped from her school building, resulting in her suicide. Mariam shared her observations from the CCTV footage, pointing out that the people in the vicinity seemed unprepared and unaware of the severity of the situation. She expressed her concerns about society’s tendency to stigmatize and avoid discussions about mental health, urging for a shift in mindset to foster awareness and prevention.
The discussion also touched upon the challenges of diagnosing and understanding trauma. Mariam recounted her own experience seeking help for depression and the confusion caused by different diagnoses. She emphasized the importance of focusing on supporting individuals’ experiences rather than labeling them. Diagnoses should not define a person’s worth or restrict their healing journey.
Zainab, the host, shared her personal experiences with grief and the lasting impact it had on her mental well-being. She emphasized the need for open conversations about trauma and the importance of providing a safe space for children and teenagers to express their emotions and experiences without judgment.
In response to the question of whether parents can be friends with their children, Mariam highlighted the significance of setting boundaries while maintaining a supportive relationship. Building strong connections with children involves active listening, validating their emotions, and understanding their needs. It requires parents to reflect on their own childhood experiences and consider what they needed during challenging times.
Regarding the challenging phase of puberty, both Mariam and Zainab acknowledged its significance and the emotional struggles teenagers face. They discussed the importance of empathy, understanding, and open communication during this transformative period. By acknowledging the physical, emotional, and cognitive changes teenagers experience, parents can provide the necessary support and guidance to help them navigate this challenging phase.
As the conversation came to a close, Mariam emphasized the need for a compassionate and clinical approach when dealing with depression and extreme cases where a child may exhibit signs of suicide. It is essential to avoid moralizing depression and to seek professional help, such as play therapy, to support children’s mental health.
The discussion on trauma-informed parenting and its impact on addressing teen depression and suicide shed light on the need for increased awareness, open conversations, and support networks for children and teenagers. By adopting a trauma-informed approach, parents can play a vital role in promoting positive mental health outcomes for their children and fostering resilient individuals.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional or helpline in your country.