insideKENT Magazine Issue 96 - March 2020

IN ASSOCIATION WITH Recognising changes to behaviour: Whilst behaviours to look out for in early identification vary for each individual, some behaviour changes to look out for are: • Becoming withdrawn. • Being secretive. • Having a new friend group or withdrawing from friends. • Becoming more argumentative or emotional. • Changes in eating habits. • Changes in social habits. • Not communicating. • School refusal. • Behaviour changes at school/college/home. • Changes in appearance. • Isolating themselves. • Aggression. • Covering up areas of the body normally visible. • Not being truthful. • Lack of interest in anything or interest centred on a negative area. What to do when you recognise that something just isn't right: Be open and honest, approach your child/young person in a calm and supportive manner. Ask your child/young person if everything is OK, don’t make assumptions even if you feel you are right, wait for your child to explain or open up. “It should not be underestimated how powerful good communication can be in preventing our children and young people from developing more serious mental health issues.” West Kent Mind person seek advice, the first steps to take would be to speak to your child/young person’s GP or school/learning environment who can guide you to relevant organisations and begin your young person’s support journey. Try to: TOGETHER WE CAN TEACH OUR CHILDREN THE IMPORTANCE OF TALKING ABOUT HOW WE ARE FEELING. • Avoid confrontation and language that is challenging or blameful. If you feel you are unable or feel you cannot remain calm try again another time. • Take an interest in their lives. • Get to know who their social circle is. • Have clear values and expectations for home so your child/young person feels secure and safe. This will enable your child to feel more able to speak with you when they are ready. What to do next: For further advice and support please contact: www.daretodiffer.org or call 01843 609366 If you are worried or concerned there are next steps you can take to get support. There are many organisations that offer advice and support, it is important to remember that no parent is an expert in parenting or expected to be, there isn’t a ‘how to manual’ and quite often parenting comes from our own experiences. If you feel you would like to access support for your child/young www.westkentmind.org.uk or call 01732 744950 149

insideKENT Magazine Issue 96 - March 2020 | Page 149