Ways To Boost Your Child’s Wellbeing

During the pandemic, children’s mental health was high on the agenda for parents, as young people all over the world grappled with school closures and being isolated from friends and family.  

Incidences of mental ill health amongst the young rose significantly, with a UK study[i] identifying that one in six children and young people had a probable mental disorder in 2021, compared to one in nine in 2017.  

Whilst many children have now been reunited with their social circles and are back to the usual school routines, the fallout of the pandemic continues to linger. 

Perhaps it is no surprise then, that parents are investing in a range of treatments to help shore up their child’s wellbeing. According to research by Private Client by Bupa amongst high-net-worth individuals in the UK, this has included fitness and gym memberships, nutritionists, mindfulness coaching, personal training, counselling and even sleep consultancy[ii].

But boosting your child’s wellbeing needn’t be expensive. As a starting point, Dr Naomi Humber, Head of Mental Wellbeing at Bupa Health Clinics, recommends opening up the channels of communication.  

“How we communicate with children is the first step to helping them feel safe and maintaining their mental health. It may be easier to talk about specific worries while you’re doing something, like making dinner, so that your children don’t feel put on the spot.” says Dr Humber. “Though it may feel difficult at the time, children will benefit more from honest conversations in an understanding home environment.” 

Dr Humber also suggests establishing and sticking to a routine. “Even outside of the school day, having a routine can help reduce anxiety. By having clear plans, your child will know what’s expected of them, helping them remain focused and motivated.” 

Physical exercise is another great (and often free) way to promote good mental health, advises Humber.  “Regular exercise can really help to lift our mood. To engage children, make exercise fun, or for younger kids incorporate play. Exercising together will also help boost connection with your child.” 

If you have recognised signs of stress and anxiety in your child, early intervention is key.  

Humber says: “Find a neutral space, perhaps a walk out in nature, to open up the conversation. Be sure to let your child properly process the chat and let them know they can come back to you later on if needs be. It is, however, important to seek professional support if your child continues to feel in a low mood or anxious.” 

Private Client by Bupa is helping support individuals and their families feel their best and stay that way too. 

In one simple package with one single point of contact, Private Client by Bupa curates exceptional health and wellbeing services. From award-winning medical cover at home or abroad provided by Bupa Global; to rich, proactive, preventive wellbeing benefits; to a Global Virtual Care service giving access to video consultations in the comfort of your own home. 

For more information on Private Client by Bupa, visit  bupaprivateclient.com  or call  0371 346 0407.

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[i] NHS Digital Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2021, published September 2021. Key findings on first page - https://files.digital.nhs.uk/97/B09EF8/mhcyp_2021_rep.pdf

[ii] According to research conducted by Censuswide in July 2021 among 252 high net worth individuals with assets/ income of £1 million + (excluding main home).