Teaching Children Psychohygiene Before They Break
“Mental health issues are on the rise in children and adolescents, making it crucial to prioritize psychohygiene education.”
– Dr. Jane M. Healy, Educational Psychologist
Source: Psychology Today
Understanding Psychohygiene
Psychohygiene, a term coined by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung in 1928, refers to practices and habits that promote good mental health. It emphasizes self-care for the mind as essential to overall wellbeing.
The Importance of Teaching Psychohygiene to Children
- Prevention: By teaching children psychohygiene, we aim to prevent mental health issues from developing in the first place.
- Resilience: Encouraging good mental health habits helps children build resilience and cope with the challenges of growing up.
- Improved Academic Performance: Mental wellbeing has a direct impact on academic success, making psychohygiene education essential for students.
“We must teach our children to cultivate their inner lives, as much as we teach them to read and write.”
– E. Merrill Root, Psychologist
Source: VeryWell Family
Practicing Psychohygiene with Children
Some practices to teach children include mindfulness exercises, positive self-talk, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and open communication about emotions. It’s essential to adapt these practices to the child’s age and developmental stage for optimal effectiveness.