Aug 15 2008
Children affected by a parent’s depression
In research I conducted for BACK FROM THE BRINK TOO (launched September 9) many parents expressed concern about how their partner’s depression was impacting on their children.
Children are very perceptive and you need to keep a close eye to see how they are coping. It is an area where it is very hard to find any advice and I had a researcher search the world to find great practical information. Believe it or not we found the best advice on our own doorstep. Northern Sydney Area Health put together a booklet put together by Northern Sydney Area Health called “Support for carers, family, and friends: Uncharted Waters”.
Whilst there is not enough time to fully outline all their recommendations, they stressed that children should be reassured of the following:
1. It’s not their fault – children often believe that they may have caused the illness and it is important that they be reassured of that point.
2. The illness is not catching – They may not bring it up but fear of catching the illness is very real for children. Explain that all causes are not known but it is definitely not contagious.
3. What will happen next – This may not be completely clear yet, but explain to them to the best of your understanding, who will take care of them and what will happen to the unwell person.
Signs to look out for
Some of the signs that a child may not be coping are:
· Inability to get along with other children
· Marked fall in the level of school work
· Change in usual sleeping and eating patterns
· Marked weight gain or loss
· Reluctance to go to school
· Fearfulness
· Restlessness
· Excessive disobedience
· Social withdrawal
If you are concerned about the safety and wellbeing of a child, or if symptoms are lasting more that a few weeks, seek professional help. A good place to start is your GP or the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (or equivalent) at you local area health service. Kids Helpline may also give you some guidance- 1800 55 800.
In BACK FROM THE BRINK TOO, we then provide individual advice for Pre School Aged and Younger Children, Primary School Aged Children, and Adolescents.
There is also an excellent guide and checklist by COMIC (Children of Mentally Ill Consumers/Parents)
http://www.nscchealth.nsw.gov.au/carersupport/fami/copmiresources/003747278.pdf
Best wishes and my love and support in taking care of this important group.
Kind Regards
Graeme
