Mental health explained
Learn about common mental health terms and conditions and how to support your family’s well-being.
- Español
- English
👉 Follow us on WhatsApp Channels: UNICEF Parenting Hub to get daily tips.
You might also be interested in: Parenting | Food and nutrition | Early learning | Nurturing care | Health | Security and protection | Short masterclasses for parents and caregivers
Sadness, fear, frustration and other emotions are all a natural part of growing up. But if your child is experiencing intense negative emotions for prolonged periods of time, and it’s impacting their social, family and school life, it may mean they need support from a mental health professional.
Read on to learn more about some of the common mental health conditions and ways you can help your child to feel better.
What is mental health?
Mental health is fundamental to our ability to think, feel, learn, work, build meaningful relationships and contribute to the world. Mental health means more than just an absence of mental disorders. It is an important part and foundation of everyone’s overall health and well-being.
Throughout their lives, children and young people experience different levels of positive mental health and well-being. 1 in 10 of them will also experience a mental health condition. Sadly the majority never get the care they need.
Mental health conditions explained
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of fear and panic that we experience when we are worried, scared or nervous about something. Learn about anxiety in children and adolescents, signs to look out for and how you can support.
>> Learn more
What is depression?
Depression is an experience where you feel very “down” or low all the time. It often develops alongside anxiety. Learn about signs of depression in children and adolescents and ways you can help them feel better.
>> Learn more
What are panic attacks?
A panic attack is a sudden and intense feeling of fear and anxiety that can be overwhelming and scary. Learn about panic attacks in children and adolescents, signs to look out for and how you can help.
>> Learn more
What is stress?
Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with mental or emotional pressure. Learn how stress affects children, signs to watch out for and ways you can support your child.
>> Learn more
How to talk to your child about mental health
No one should have to deal with mental health challenges on their own. Make sure your child doesn’t. It starts with one moment, one conversation, one question: What’s on your mind?
