08/10/2025

Supporting Your Child’s (and Your Own) Mental Health in Challenging Times

10th October marks World Mental Health Day; a gentle reminder for all of us to pause, reflect, and take care of our minds as much as our bodies.

As parents, especially working parents, we often carry a lot on our shoulders; trying to juggle work demands, family life, school runs, and everything in between. And while we all want our children to thrive, it’s easy to overlook the emotional wellbeing of both them and ourselves in the chaos of daily life.

This year’s theme “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” is a powerful reminder that protecting our mental wellbeing is just as important as safeguarding our physical health, especially during uncertain or stressful times.

From global events and financial instability to everyday pressures at home, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. And when the world feels unpredictable, both adults and children can absorb that sense of worry, even when we’re trying our best to shield them from it.

So, this World Mental Health Day, let’s take a moment to think about how we can help our children feel safe and supported in times of uncertainty and how we, as parents, can look after ourselves too.

💚 Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children are remarkably resilient, but they’re also sensitive to the moods, routines, and emotional signals around them. Even if they don’t fully understand what’s happening in the world, they pick up on how we respond.

Here are some practical ways to support their wellbeing when things feel unsettled:

1. Create calm and routine

In uncertain times, predictability helps children feel secure. Keeping regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and family rituals (like reading together or weekend walks) provides comfort and stability when the wider world feels shaky.

2. Be honest, but age-appropriate

Children can sense when something is wrong. Offer honest, simple explanations without overloading them with adult worries. For example: “Yes, some things are changing right now, but we’re safe, and we’ll get through this together.” This reassurance (that they are safe and loved) makes a huge difference.

3. Encourage expression through play and conversation

Play, drawing, and storytelling help children process emotions they might not yet have words for. Ask open questions like, “How are you feeling about that?” or “What would help you feel better today?”

4. Limit exposure to distressing news

It’s important for older children to understand what’s happening, but constant exposure to dramatic news can heighten anxiety. Watch or discuss world events together and talk about the helpers, the people working to make things better.

5. Teach simple coping tools

Even young children can learn grounding techniques like deep breathing or focusing on their senses. For example, “Let’s take three big breaths together,” or “Can you tell me five things you can see right now?” These simple exercises can calm the body and mind.

6. Reach out for professional support early

If your child seems persistently anxious, withdrawn, or upset, reach out to your GP, school counsellor, or local mental health service. Accessing help early can prevent small worries from growing into bigger challenges, and that’s exactly what this year’s theme is about: ensuring everyone can get the support they need, when they need it.

💛 Parents Need Support Too

When emergencies — global or personal — arise, parents often move straight into “holding it all together” mode. You focus on keeping everyone safe, reassured, and functioning. But in doing so, your own emotional needs can quietly slip to the bottom of the list.

Working parents, in particular, are balancing more than ever; professional responsibilities, childcare, financial stress, and the ongoing uncertainty of the world around us.

Here’s how to protect your mental health in the midst of it all:

1. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed

You don’t need to be endlessly strong or positive. Feeling stressed or anxious in uncertain times is a human response, not a personal failing. Give yourself permission to pause and feel.

2. Keep your circle of support close

Stay connected with people who lift you up; friends, family, or colleagues who you can be honest with. Talking openly reduces feelings of isolation and reminds you that you’re not facing things alone.

3. Focus on what you can control

When the world feels unstable, focus your energy on small, manageable things; preparing a family meal, tidying a space, or stepping outside for fresh air. These small actions can restore a sense of balance and calm.

4. Access help when you need it

There’s no shame in seeking professional support. Whether it’s counselling through work, speaking with your GP, or accessing online wellbeing services, help is there and you deserve it just as much as anyone else.

5. Be kind to yourself

Parenting through difficult times takes courage. Some days you’ll feel like you’re coping; other days, less so. That’s okay. Small acts of self-care like a cup of tea in peace, a short walk, or even an early night, can help you recharge emotionally.

🏕️ How Barracudas Camps Support Children’s and Parents’ Wellbeing

At Barracudas, we understand that supporting children’s mental and physical health goes hand-in-hand. Our camps are designed to help children feel confident, active, and happy, giving them space to explore, make friends, and thrive in a safe, positive environment.

We also know that school holidays can bring their own pressures for parents. From juggling work to managing routines and keeping children entertained. That’s why we’re committed to making your experience with us as easy and seamless as possible.

Our mission is simple: Peace of mind for parents, maximum fun for kids.

Through engaging activities, caring staff, and a focus on wellbeing, we aim to give children a place where they can shine, and parents the reassurance that their little ones are safe, supported, and smiling.

🌱 A Final Thought

In times of global instability, our greatest strength often comes from connection; with our families, our communities, and the support services that help us weather the storm.

By caring for our children’s mental wellbeing, we’re helping them build resilience that will last a lifetime. And by caring for our own, we’re showing them what self-compassion and courage really look like.

This World Mental Health Day, take a moment to reach out, check in, and remind yourself: support is out there — and you are not alone. 💛