Dealing with Mental Health in Young People

Psychologist and positive psychotherapist Dr. Theo Cope, from International SOS in Beijing, launched Mental Health Week at Wellington College International Tianjin with two thoroughly informative presentations to both senior pupils and parents respectively.

With issues of mental health being so closely associated with peer interactions, pupils were introduced to the hugely damaging consequences of bullying from the perspective of health and well-being. Touching on modern issues of cyberbullying, Dr. Cope emphasized ways in which, as a young and maturing adult, a pupil might overcome pressures and challenges that have a negative effect on their attitude and development.

Parents from Wellington, as well as a number of guests from the wider community, were then introduced to the concept of dealing with any issues as a family. Offering valuable advice as to how a parent might identify any signs and subsequently further support their child should any mental health issues happen to arise, Dr. Cope introduced a range of symptoms to various issues that parents should always keep an eye out for in support of their child’s development.

Some of the tips for parents that Dr. Cope shared with the audience were as follows:

-    Be sensitive to any significant dietary changes and food habits
-    Seek to understand clothing choices & styles
-    Provide support for adjustments in school or intellectual interests
-    “Talk so children will listen and listen so children will talk.”  Be the model for your child
-    Explore the possible future and interests with your child
-    Make time for your child: Check in with them often
-    Keep the lines of communication open
-    Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns
-    Don’t blame, but seek to understand
-    Consult with a school teacher or counsellor
-    Seek professional assistance if needed

In support of the excellent Pastoral Care at Wellington College International Tianjin, the international school is currently hosting a Mental Health Week in order to further introduce pupils and parents to any issues associated with mental health.

Dr. Cope's recommended reading list for parents:

How to talk so kids will listen & listen so kids will talk
Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

How to talk so teens will listen & listen so teens will talk
Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Helping your anxious child: a step-by-step guide for parents
Ronald M. Rapee, et. al. - Second Edition

The teenage brain: a neuroscientists survival guide to raising adolescents and young adults
Frances E. Jensen MD

Age of opportunity: lessons from the new science of adolescence
Laurence Steinberg, PhD.

Brain rules for baby
John Medina

In order to better understand how Pastoral Care at Wellington College International Tianjin works.