Parental anxieties around children’s mental health
Parental anxieties around children’s mental health
Day-to-day arrangements for the children when parents separate
In today’s society there is certainly a better understanding of mental health including what factors can see a decline in the mental health of both children and adults. A relationship breakdown is a clear and obvious factor, especially for children’s mental health when watching their parents separate.
A recent survey conducted by the NSPCC has revealed that 75% of parents living in the UK who have children aged 5 and under are anxious about their child’s emotional and mental wellbeing. These parents are keen to receive information about infant mental health and support with early childhood development. The survey also found that 56% of parents of 6 to 11-year-olds said they were anxious about their child’s mental health and 47% of parents of children aged between 12 to 17 also expressed the same concern. Of the adults surveyed, more than twice as many parents think growing up is harder for girls than boys. Off the back of this survey, NSPCC has launched a new campaign and refreshed their advice for parents to help with many of the everyday challenges they face when raising children.
On a relationship breakdown, communication is key. Even if the parties themselves can no longer see eye to eye in their own relationship, the role of parent is a different one. If possible, parents should try to present a united front to the children, even if they are no longer united themselves as one family unit. Adopting a child focused approach should provide reassurance to the child that their parents will work hard to sort out the separation in as calm and amicable way possible.
There are many ways two separating parents can resolve their differences, not just around financial issues but also concerning the day-to-day arrangements for the children. Discussions around the impact on the child’s mental health and what can be done to mitigate any adverse effect are encouraged, either through the parent’s attending mediation or in their use of solicitors (who ideally will be members of Resolution) where there should be a willingness and commitment to resolving any conflict in the most straightforward, child focused way possible.
At Kerseys Solicitors, our experienced Family Law Solicitors are all Resolution members and we know the impact words and actions can have on the parties and the wider family members. If you are experiencing a relationship breakdown and you are worried about the impact on yourself or your children, speak to a member of our Family Law team today in confidence and we can discuss our initial consultation process with you.
Kerseys Solicitors in Ipswich at [email protected] or telephone 01473 213311, Kerseys Solicitors in Felixstowe at [email protected] on
01394 834557 or Kerseys Solicitors in Colchester at [email protected] on 01206 584584.
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