By Maya Brownstein

For more than a decade, the Football Players Health Study at Harvard University (FPHS) has been conducting research on how a career in football impacts the long-term health and wellbeing of players and their families. The latest FPHS study, published Jan. 12 in the Journal of Neurotrauma, is on suicidality among National Football League (NFL) players, especially in the context of growing awareness of and attention on neurodegenerative disease and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The study found that NFL players faced increased risk of suicide compared to their basketball and baseball counterparts, likely due to multiple factors including “copycat” effects from high-profile suicides, increased fears around CTE, and high rates of medical conditions whose symptoms can mimic those of CTE.

Below, the study’s lead authors—Rachel Grashow, senior research scientist at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and director of epidemiological research initiatives for the FPHS, and Marc Weisskopf, Cecil K. and Philip Drinker Professor of Environmental Epidemiology and Physiology and director of epidemiological studies for the FPHS—talk about their findings and why they instill senses of both caution and hope.

Q: What did you examine in this study?

Weisskopf: Recent high-profile suicides among NFL players have raised serious concerns about player health, wellbeing, and safety. Our study asks whether professional football players are different from other professional athletes when it comes to suicide. We’ve known for some time that suicide rates among male professional athletes, including NFL players, are lower than that of the general male population—but since these groups differ in many ways, we decided to focus exclusively on elite athletes and compare NFL players to their Major League Baseball (MLB) and National Basketball Association (NBA) counterparts.

Grashow: We were also interested in how suicide rates among NFL players may have changed over time. In recent years, conversations around head injury and neurodegenerative disease have shaped a collective narrative around football and health. We believe 2011 was a pivotal year for that conversation, when the publication of scientific studies on brain injury, neurodegenerative disease, and football accelerated. In particular, CTE—a neuropathological condition that is determined only through autopsy, and that cannot yet be diagnosed or treated in living patients—gained attention in a series of highly publicized research articles. There were also a number of high-profile deaths by suicide among some NFL players after 2010 that were discussed publicly.

This study asked whether NFL suicide was more likely from 2011 onwards, since CTE wasn’t as widely discussed prior to that, and we know from our previous research that there is a link between CTE concerns and suicidality. One of our previous FPHS studies, which used data from our cohort of nearly 5,000 former NFL players, showed that players with CTE concerns were more likely to report frequent thoughts of self-harm or killing themselves.

Q: How did you conduct this study and what did it find?

Weisskopf: We used publicly available playing data on all professional baseball, basketball, and football players going back to 1920 that included their names and dates of birth. That information was submitted to the U.S. National Death Index, who returned a list of deceased players along with their date and cause of death. We flagged the deaths by suicide in this list to determine the suicide rate across all the years studied—1979, when the U.S. started maintaining electronic death records, through 2019—as well as broken into two eras: 1979-2010 and 2011-2019.

Grashow: Similar to other studies of suicide among professional athletes, when we pooled all the data from 1979 to 2019, we saw a comparable rate of death by suicide among NFL, MLB, and NBA players.

When we split the data at 2011, we found that prior to 2011, NFL, MLB, and NBA players also had the same rate of death by suicide. From 2011 to 2019, however, we saw an almost threefold increase in suicide among NFL players when compared to these other professional athletes.

Q: What might account for this increase?

Weisskopf: We can’t say for sure from this study, but there are many possible contributing factors. While we did not find any rule-, policy-, or equipment-based changes that could account for the increase, these and other biological or exposure-based causes can’t be ruled out. It’s also possible that deaths among NFL players that would not have been classified as suicides by medical examiners prior to 2011 may have been labeled a suicide after 2010, as a result of greater awareness of issues related to head trauma. Additionally, high profile suicides have been known to cause a “copycat” or contagion effect called the Werther effect. More research is needed to determine the individual contributions of each of these factors.

Grashow: Previous research may lend additional relevant context. Similar to prior FPHS findings linking CTE concerns with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, studies have shown that individuals who have been diagnosed or believe themselves to be at risk for neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, or Parkinson’s disease are at greater risk of suicide. Descriptions of these conditions as neurodegenerative diseases without cure—and, in the case of CTE, treatment—may be contributing to increased suicide rates, although, again, we cannot say for certain based on this study.

On a hopeful note, however, while some former players may indeed have the underlying brain changes associated with CTE, there are also other conditions commonly found in former NFL players that may result in symptoms frequently attributed to CTE, but that are treatable. A previous FPHS study showed that members of our cohort disproportionately report living with conditions that can cause cognitive symptoms—issues with memory, concentration, and impulsivity, for example—including sleep apnea, high blood pressure, low testosterone, chronic pain, depression, and opiate use. Players with these conditions and symptoms were more likely to think they had CTE. While these players may have the underlying brain pathology that characterizes CTE, some may not. We believe encouraging players to be proactive about their treatable conditions is worth emphasizing.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Q: What are the study’s key takeaways—for players, their families, and the institutions responsible for their health and safety?

Grashow: We hope our findings motivate collective action among players, families, the NFL, and other organizations who support current and former players to address what may be preventable deaths. First and foremost, the sudden onset of increased suicide risk among NFL players should motivate increased screening, surveillance, and programming for former players related to depression, thoughts of self-harm, and suicide. Further, it may be beneficial for players, families, PCPs and sports medicine physicians, and other organizations that support former players to increase screening for conditions that may mimic symptoms attributed to CTE. Treatments are available for many of these conditions, with the potential to improve quality and length of life and, in so doing, reduce feelings of despair. These investments are important and warranted regardless of whether or not the increased attention and concern about head injury and brain effects are among the contributors to the higher NFL suicide rate.

Weisskopf: There’s still a lot we don’t know about CTE, and specifically how it may relate to enhanced suicide risk. Research to identify treatments and diagnostics should be prioritized. And while this research is ongoing, we really want to emphasize that cognitive symptoms don’t automatically indicate neurodegenerative disease. Rather, cognitive symptoms should motivate thorough screenings for all treatable conditions known to commonly occur in football players, as well as, it’s worth noting, anyone at risk of repetitive head injury, including military service people and players of other contact sports. We encourage these individuals, their families, and their physicians to prioritize treating what’s treatable, and to have open conversations about risks for self-harm and suicidal ideation. https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=16352

James Donaldson on Mental Health - What to Do When Your Child Is Being Bullied — and Won’t Talk About It

Tips on signs to look for, when to intervene, and when not to

Writer: Juliann Garey

Clinical Experts: Megan Ice, PhD , Stephanie Ruggiero, PsyD

Key Takeaways

- Sudden changes in mood, sleep, or school habits can be early signs your child is being bullied — even if they say everything’s fine.
- Many kids stay silent about bullying because they’re scared, embarrassed, or worried that speaking up will only make things worse.
- Kids are more likely to open up when parents stay calm, listen, and validate their feelings, rather than jumping in to fix the problem right away
- Spotting signs of bullying when kids don’t talk
- Reasons your child might not want to talk
- Creating space for conversation
- What to do if they still won’t talk
- When to involve your child’s school — and when not to
- Tips for talking to the school
- Helping your child respond to bullying

Bullying is something we hope won’t happen to our kids — or if it does, that they’ll come to us right away. But sometimes kids don’t tell us. They may be embarrassed, afraid it will get worse if they “snitch,” or worried we’ll overreact and make things worse. Maybe your once-outgoing child suddenly wants to stay home from school or your teen seems anxious every time a notification buzzes on their phone. You know something’s going on, but they insist everything is fine.

Before acting, it helps to know what counts as bullying. Not every unkind moment between kids rises to that level. Stephanie Ruggiero, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, says bullying has three defining features: It’s intentional, it’s repeated, and there’s a power imbalance — meaning the child doing the bullying has more social, physical, or emotional power. (You can read more on what’s bullying and what’s not.)

Spotting signs of bullying when kids don’t talk

Parents are often the first to notice that something is wrong, even when their child insists everything is fine. Dr. Ruggiero says to watch for:

- Physical complaints: Stomachaches, headaches, or other ailments that pop up before school
- Avoidance: Refusing to go to school, skipping activities, or faking illness
- Changes in mood: Becoming irritable, withdrawn, or unusually anxious
- Sleep issues: Nightmares, bedwetting, or trouble falling asleep
- Missing or damaged belongings: Unexplained broken glasses, lost electronics, or ripped clothing

When bullying happens online, look for:

- Hiding phones or slamming laptops shut when you walk in the room
- Sudden deletion of social media accounts or creation of new ones
- Blocking numbers or removing friends
- Extreme emotional reactions — anger, tears, panic — after a notification
- Dramatic increases or decreases in screen time

“Those changes in behavior are your clues,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “If you notice patterns that aren’t typical for your child, trust your gut.” Imagine, for example, that your eighth grader suddenly starts asking to stay home from school and spends hours scrolling on their phone, only to come away in tears. These patterns can be unsettling, and they’re often the first clue something is happening beneath the surface.

Reasons your child might not want to talk

Megan Ice, PhD, a psychologist in the Mood Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, says that understanding why kids stay silent is often the key to helping them open up. “Before doing anything,” she says, “I try to clarify what’s actually happening — and help parents manage their own anxiety so they can just listen and validate, not jump into problem-solving right away. Sometimes that’s enough to give the child space to talk.”

Kids’ reasons for staying quiet vary widely:

- Fear the situation will get worse: Many kids have seen or experienced school interventions that backfired — for example, being labeled a “snitch,” or having their class schedule or lunch period changed in ways that make them feel singled out.
- Shame or embarrassment: Boys, Dr. Ice notes, often feel pressure to act like they don’t care. Kids teased about personal or private issues — like hygiene, bedwetting, or body image — may feel too humiliated to talk.
- Fear of consequences: Sometimes kids keep quiet because they’ve broken a rule. “If a child was bullied after sharing a nude photo or cheating on a test, they might fear punishment as much as the bullying itself,” Dr. Ice says.
- Worry about burdening parents: Some kids hesitate to bring problems home because they sense their parents are stressed. Others don’t want to make their parents feel guilty or upset.

“Identifying what’s keeping a child silent helps parents approach them with empathy,” Dr. Ice says.

Creating space for conversation

When you suspect something is wrong, your first instinct might be to press for answers — but pushing too hard can backfire. “The goal is to make it safe for your child to share,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “That starts with being calm, present, and curious.” Here are ways to encourage conversation with your child that may make them open up more easily:

- Use open-ended questions: Skip yes-or-no questions. Instead try, “If your teacher called me, what would they say about your day?”
- Validate feelings: Say things like, “That sounds really frustrating,” or “I can see why that made you sad.”
- Get creative: For younger kids, watch their play for clues. Pretend games can give hints of what’s happening at school. “If their dolls or action figures start acting out mean behavior,” Dr. Ice explains, “that can open the door for gentle questions like, ‘That sounded unkind — does that ever happen at school?’”
- Read together: Books can be a gentle way to help little kids understand and talk about bullying. The Child Mind Institute has a list of clinician-recommended books on bullying. Dr. Ruggiero also recommends checking out the American Psychological Association’s Magination Press, which publishes psychologist-written books for kids on a range of topics. You can search their site by topic and age group to find books that fit your child’s needs.
- Communicate through writing: Older kids who struggle with verbal expression might be more comfortable writing you a note, sending a text, or even using a simple emoji to show how they feel. 
- Take advantage of side-by-side moments: Talk in the car, while walking the dog, or during another low-pressure activity. This works especially well with tweens and teens who may be hesitant to let parents in.

Avoid overreacting, panicking, interrupting and/or rushing them, or minimizing their experience. “If parents stay calm, it shows kids they can handle hard news,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “That makes kids much more likely to come to you again.”

What to do if they still won’t talk

If your child continues to shut down despite your efforts, Dr. Ice says the next step depends on what you’re seeing. “If there’s concrete evidence — like hurtful messages, damaged belongings, or visible injuries — it’s worth bringing in support,” she says. “Often the school counselor is the best first call, because they know the teachers, the social dynamics, and can quietly monitor what’s happening day-to-day.”

If your child refuses to meet with a counselor at school — maybe because they’re worried about confidentiality or being seen in that office — an outside therapist can help. “Therapy gives kids a private space to process what’s happening,” Dr. Ice adds, “and can still include coordination with the school.”

With younger children, the classroom teacher might be the right starting point, since that teacher sees all of their interactions. In middle and high school, the counselor usually has the best overview of what’s happening across classes and social settings.

When to involve your child’s school — and when not to

Many parents might be surprised to hear that involving the school may not always be the best solution for their child. “I’m often cautious about contacting schools without the child’s explicit permission, especially for middle or high schoolers,” Dr. Ice says. “If they don’t feel part of the plan, it can make things worse.”

Dr. Ice says that sometimes the child is open to limited communication with the school — for instance, agreeing to ask for more supervision at recess or using a different bathroom if that’s where the bullying happens.

Dr. Ice adds that a good rule of thumb is to involve the school when there’s a clear safety risk, repeated targeting, or when the bullying affects your child’s functioning — but to proceed more cautiously when it’s a one-time social conflict or when your child strongly resists.

“It also helps to stay curious,” Dr. Ice explains. “Sometimes parents only hear one side, and it turns out their child is doing something — like humming or joking constantly — that’s irritating peers. The goal isn’t to blame them, but to understand the full picture so you can plan the right response.”

Tips for talking to the school

When you do contact the school, frame the conversation as collaborative: You’re working together to solve a problem, not pointing fingers. Share the facts you’ve gathered, bring any screenshots or documentation, and ask what steps they can take to keep your child safe.

“If the situation doesn’t improve, escalate gradually — from teacher, to counselor, to principal, to superintendent, if necessary,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “And know your school’s anti-bullying policy so you can reference it when you’re asking for help.” Remember that schools are still responsible for addressing bullying that happens off-campus if it affects a child’s ability to learn or feel safe at school.

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Helping your child respond to bullying

Parents often struggle to know when to step in and when to let kids handle things themselves. “If your child’s safety is at risk, if the bullying is persistent, or if they ask for help — you step in,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “For more typical social conflicts, you can coach from the sidelines, offering ideas and encouragement while letting them practice handling things on their own.”

When helping a child plan their own response to bullies, Dr. Ice suggests walking through real-life situations together. “If they’re worried about lunchtime, talk about where they’ll sit, who they can join, and what they’ll do if someone whispers or posts something unkind. Having that script in mind — even simple phrases like ‘I don’t want to talk about that’ — makes it easier to cope in real time.”

Shifting a child’s response can sometimes make a difference. “If we can help a child respond more neutrally instead of with tears or anger, it often takes away the payoff for the bully,” she explains. For example, if a child tends to cry or lash out, have them practice staying calm and asking for a bathroom break so they can regroup. “Or, she says, they can simply turn and walk away. It’s not about pretending not to care — it’s about learning to manage those big feelings in a private, safer space so the bully doesn’t get that reaction they’re looking for.”

Dr. Ice sums it up this way: “The best approach depends on your child’s readiness. The more we include them in decisions and problem-solving, the more empowered they feel — and that confidence is often what ultimately reduces the bullying.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my child is being bullied if they won’t talk about it?

Watch for changes that don’t fit your child’s usual patterns — like frequent stomachaches before school, damaged belongings, sleep issues, or mood shifts. Kids who are bullied online might hide their phones, delete social media accounts, or react emotionally to notifications. Trust your instincts if something feels off.

What are my options if the school ignores bullying reports?

How do I encourage my child to open up about bullying?

Can bullying affect a child long-term if it isn’t addressed?

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-what-to-do-when-your-child-is-being-bullied-and-wont-talk-about-it/

James Donaldson on Mental Health - What Is Social and Emotional Learning?

How SEL programs help kids succeed in school

Photo by Pragyan Bezbaruah on Pexels.com

Writer: Jessica Souza

Clinical Experts: LaKisha Hoffman, MSW , Caroline Mendel, PsyD

What You'll Learn

- What is SEL?
- What are the basic components of SEL?
- Why is SEL beneficial to children?
- Quick Read
- Full Article
- What are the basic social-emotional skills?
- Why is SEL beneficial for children?
- What does SEL look like in the classroom?
- How can parents support their child with SEL at home?
- What to do if you think your child needs additional SEL support

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

When children lack the skills to manage their emotions and make good decisions, they often get in trouble at school. That’s why many schools teach SEL. Studies show that SEL positively affects students’ success in school and life.

SEL has five main skills: self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, self-management, and relationship skills. Specific topics that schools often teach include identifying feelings, considering other people’s perspectives, and brainstorming solutions to problems.

SEL at school usually includes both lessons on these skills and lots of daily practice. For example, a teacher might lead a lesson on conflict resolution. Then, when a conflict between students comes up, the teacher coaches them through it using the skills from the lesson.

Parents can also help kids build SEL skills at home by helping kids identify their feelings and learn to manage them. If a child is struggling with social-emotional skills, individualized support at school can help. And if they have an underlying mental health challenge, professional treatment may be necessary.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

Social and emotional learning is often assumed to happen naturally in the course of a child’s development without being taught. But when children don’t master these skills, they often develop behavior problems that, in turn, can interfere with their functioning in school and their ability to learn.

That’s why programs that teach social and emotional skills are now taught in many schools, from pre-kindergarten all the way through high school.

“When kids don’t know math, we teach them math — we don’t punish them for not knowing how to do math,” explains LaKisha Hoffman, MSW, a social worker and a Senior Director of School and Community Programs at the Child Mind Institute. “But when kids don’t know how to regulate themselves, we punish them for misbehavior.”

Instead, she says, we want to teach kids the skills they’re missing — to fill those gaps so they’ll be able to manage their emotions, get along with other kids, and succeed in school.

“These are not things that humans naturally just know,” adds Caroline Mendel, PsyD, a clinical psychologist who works in schools. “They do need some explicit instruction and then ongoing reinforcement.”

What are the basic social-emotional skills?

One widely used framework for SEL is the CASEL framework, named for an organization that introduced the term SEL over two decades ago. (CASEL stands for the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning.) 

According to the CASEL framework, there are five interrelated areas of competence that make up SEL:

- Self-awareness: The ability to identify and recognize one’s own emotions and thoughts and understand how they impact behavior.
- Social awareness: Having empathy and respect for others and the ability to take on different perspectives.
- Responsible decision-making: The ability to make ethical, constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions. 
- Self-management: Being able to manage one’s emotions and impulses, manage stress, and set personal goals.
- Relationship skills: Having the capacity to establish and maintain healthy, supportive relationships.

Why is SEL beneficial for children?

It’s been shown that SEL can help children feel more confident and happy in the classroom and in life in general. Research shows that SEL consistently has positive effects on students’ success — from their academic performance and behavior to their ability to manage stress.

Other research has shown that these long-term benefits are consistent across demographic groups — meaning that SEL instruction can support the positive development of children from diverse backgrounds and geographies.

There is also evidence that SEL supports educational equity and classroom inclusivity.  “When I talk to parents and school leaders,” Hoffman adds, “it’s clear that another benefit they see from students engaging in SEL is a sense of belonging.”

What does SEL look like in the classroom?

Educators usually integrate SEL into their curricula through both explicit instruction on the competencies and, equally importantly, through ongoing reinforcement of these skills.

Explicit SEL instruction might include lessons on how to identify and label your feelings, build your emotional vocabulary, consider other people’s perspectives and experiences, and brainstorm solutions to problems.

But then, the key to effectively teaching SEL competencies is reinforcing these lessons every day in the classroom. “It’s not about a standalone activity,” explains Dr. Mendel. “It’s about having a school culture that’s committed to engaging in social-emotional learning — where it’s infused into every day, with repetition of the lessons and skills.”

For example, while teaching children a lesson on conflict resolution is important, so is coaching them through conflicts when they happen in real time — reinforcing those skills and giving them a place to practice them.

“It’s not always activity-based,” Hoffman says. “It’s thinking about what skills they need to know and how to engage in conversations about them. When they’re doing things that cause harm to other people, you’re practicing, ‘How did that make someone else feel?’ to build empathy. It’s taking the times that they don’t do things right as teaching moments.”

SEL programs in schools are often structured across three tiers based on children’s needs. Tier one is the standard program, taught to all students, with the aim of helping them develop the competencies and prevent behavioral or emotional problems from developing. Tier two is for children who haven’t responded to tier one and show some signs of risk, such as behavioral issues, social difficulties, or academic struggles. Tier three is for students who require more intensive support, potentially through individualized counseling or a behavior intervention plan.

For parents interested in learning more specifics about how evidence-based school programs are rooted in research, the CASEL website provides a lot of information on SEL in the classroom.

How can parents support their child with SEL at home?

Parents are their child’s first teachers, and how they model and reinforce SEL competencies at home is essential to kids’ social-emotional development. And if they work in partnership, families, and schools can learn from each other about what works best for each individual child.

“I think the partnership between parents and schools is really important,” Hoffman says. “There are skills that students are learning in school that they can apply at home, and there are things at home that are working really well for parents — that they may not even define as an SEL skill — that they can communicate with teachers.”

For example, a parent could share with the teacher that taking a moment to meditate or focus on deep breaths helps their child handle emotions at home and see if there’s a way to integrate that practice into the classroom when needed.

“We have to really value the expertise of the home, as well as the school,” concludes Hoffman.

For resources on supporting social-emotional development at home, the site Confident Parents Confident Kids has a lot of helpful books, games, and more.

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

What to do if you think your child needs additional SEL support

If you think your child is struggling with social-emotional competencies, the first step is to start a conversation with their teacher about evaluating their progress and considering if they need additional SEL support.

“It’s great for all kids to get SEL instruction — these are skills that will help them be successful in their lives,” explains Dr. Mendel. “But in terms of whether they might need more than what they’re getting, we’d look at how they’re functioning. How are they doing academically — is there a decline in their grades? How are they getting along socially with peers — are they getting into frequent conflict? Are they able to manage frustration, sadness, or anxiety in a way that doesn’t get in the way of their life?”

If they’re struggling with behavior or academics, getting counseling at school or setting up a behavior intervention plan may help. It’s also important to consider whether there are underlying issues affecting your child’s behavior, Dr. Mendel notes. For example, if a child is depressed and that’s making them irritable, they may lash out at other kids, and their behavior can be confused with simply lacking basic relationship skills. Or if they have ADHD, impulsivity may make it very challenging for them to manage their emotions. Getting treatment from a mental health professional for those challenges may be what your child needs to thrive.

What if you would like to see your child’s school give more priority to SEL overall? There are ways to advocate for it within your school.

“I think the best way to advocate for it in a school is to show the research and the link to improved academics,” advises Dr. Mendel. “Unfortunately, sometimes social-emotional needs can come in second because schools focus on how kids are doing academically. I think showing how the two really go hand in hand and how SEL can be effective in helping schools in the business of teaching — that’s a good way to do that advocacy.”

The CASEL website provides a great deal of additional support on how to make the case for SEL.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is social emotional learning in the classroom?

What is social and emotional learning?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

What happens when kids lack social and emotional learning?

How can parents help with social-emotional learning at home?

Photo by Pragyan Bezbaruah on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-what-is-social-and-emotional-learning/

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Art as a Tool for Processing Trauma

Art as a Tool for Processing Trauma

In a world where trauma can impact lives in profound ways, finding methods to process and heal is crucial. While traditional therapy techniques are widely recognized, art has emerged as a powerful tool in addressing and processing trauma. This blog post delves into the ways art can aid in healing, offering insights into its therapeutic benefits and practical applications.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Art Therapy

2. The Psychological Benefits of Art

3. How Art Therapy Works

4. Art Forms That Aid in Healing

5. Real-Life Stories: Art Transforming Trauma

6. Conclusion

7. FAQs

Introduction to Art Therapy

Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people resolve conflicts, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.

The Psychological Benefits of Art

Art can tap into our deepest emotions, providing a channel to express what might be difficult to communicate otherwise. Engaging in creative activities has been shown to decrease stress, lower anxiety, and improve mood. When individuals create art, they enter a state of flow, where the mind becomes focused and calm, providing a temporary escape from anxiety and stress.

How Art Therapy Works

Art therapy involves the creation and discussion of art facilitated by a trained therapist. It allows individuals to explore their emotions through imagery, colors, and forms. The process of creating art can help people express and process emotions such as anger, sadness, fear, and confusion. Moreover, discussing the artwork with a therapist can lead to greater self-awareness and understanding.

Art therapy is not about being a skilled artist; rather, it's about the process and expression. It provides a safe space where individuals can explore their feelings without judgment, offering a unique way to access emotions and experiences that might be difficult to articulate verbally.

Art Forms That Aid in Healing

Different art forms can be used in therapy, each offering unique benefits:

Painting and Drawing

These activities allow for free expression and can be particularly beneficial for those who find it hard to verbalize their trauma. The choice of colors and forms can often reflect subconscious feelings and thoughts.

Sculpture

Working with clay or other materials can be grounding and help individuals express complex emotions through tactile engagement.

Photography

Photography encourages individuals to view the world from different perspectives, which can be helpful in reframing traumatic experiences.

Writing and Poetry

These forms allow for the exploration of narrative, helping individuals to structure their experiences and make sense of their trauma through words.

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Real-Life Stories: Art Transforming Trauma

Many people have found healing through art. For instance, a veteran struggling with PTSD discovered relief in painting, using the medium to explore and express his wartime experiences. Similarly, a young woman dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic accident found solace in poetry, allowing her to articulate her journey of recovery and resilience.

These stories highlight the transformative power of art. By providing a voice to the voiceless parts of ourselves, art can bridge the gap between trauma and healing.

Conclusion

Art as a tool for processing trauma offers a unique and powerful avenue for healing. It transcends the barriers of traditional therapy, providing a safe, nonverbal way to explore and express deep-seated emotions. Whether through painting, sculpture, or writing, art therapy can play a critical role in helping individuals find peace and clarity.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy?

A: No, art therapy is about the process, not the product. You do not need any artistic skills to benefit from art therapy.

Q: Can art therapy be combined with other forms of therapy?

A: Yes, art therapy can complement other therapeutic approaches, providing a holistic approach to healing.

Q: How can I find an art therapist?

A: Look for certified art therapists through professional organizations or local mental health services. Ensure they have the appropriate credentials and experience in art therapy.

Art therapy offers a beacon of hope and healing for those navigating the difficult path of trauma, demonstrating that creativity can indeed be a powerful ally in the journey to recovery.

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/art-as-a-tool-for-processing-trauma/

How SEL programs help kids succeed in school

Photo by Pragyan Bezbaruah on Pexels.com

Writer: Jessica Souza

Clinical Experts: LaKisha Hoffman, MSW , Caroline Mendel, PsyD

What You'll Learn

- What is SEL?

- What are the basic components of SEL?

- Why is SEL beneficial to children?

- Quick Read

- Full Article

- What are the basic social-emotional skills?

- Why is SEL beneficial for children?

- What does SEL look like in the classroom?

- How can parents support their child with SEL at home?

- What to do if you think your child needs additional SEL support

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

When children lack the skills to manage their emotions and make good decisions, they often get in trouble at school. That’s why many schools teach SEL. Studies show that SEL positively affects students’ success in school and life.

SEL has five main skills: self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, self-management, and relationship skills. Specific topics that schools often teach include identifying feelings, considering other people’s perspectives, and brainstorming solutions to problems.

SEL at school usually includes both lessons on these skills and lots of daily practice. For example, a teacher might lead a lesson on conflict resolution. Then, when a conflict between students comes up, the teacher coaches them through it using the skills from the lesson.

Parents can also help kids build SEL skills at home by helping kids identify their feelings and learn to manage them. If a child is struggling with social-emotional skills, individualized support at school can help. And if they have an underlying mental health challenge, professional treatment may be necessary.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

Social and emotional learning is often assumed to happen naturally in the course of a child’s development without being taught. But when children don’t master these skills, they often develop behavior problems that, in turn, can interfere with their functioning in school and their ability to learn.

That’s why programs that teach social and emotional skills are now taught in many schools, from pre-kindergarten all the way through high school.

“When kids don’t know math, we teach them math — we don’t punish them for not knowing how to do math,” explains LaKisha Hoffman, MSW, a social worker and a Senior Director of School and Community Programs at the Child Mind Institute. “But when kids don’t know how to regulate themselves, we punish them for misbehavior.”

Instead, she says, we want to teach kids the skills they’re missing — to fill those gaps so they’ll be able to manage their emotions, get along with other kids, and succeed in school.

“These are not things that humans naturally just know,” adds Caroline Mendel, PsyD, a clinical psychologist who works in schools. “They do need some explicit instruction and then ongoing reinforcement.”

What are the basic social-emotional skills?

One widely used framework for SEL is the CASEL framework, named for an organization that introduced the term SEL over two decades ago. (CASEL stands for the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning.) 

According to the CASEL framework, there are five interrelated areas of competence that make up SEL:

- Self-awareness: The ability to identify and recognize one’s own emotions and thoughts and understand how they impact behavior.

- Social awareness: Having empathy and respect for others and the ability to take on different perspectives.

- Responsible decision-making: The ability to make ethical, constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions. 

- Self-management: Being able to manage one’s emotions and impulses, manage stress, and set personal goals.

- Relationship skills: Having the capacity to establish and maintain healthy, supportive relationships.

Why is SEL beneficial for children?

It’s been shown that SEL can help children feel more confident and happy in the classroom and in life in general. Research shows that SEL consistently has positive effects on students’ success — from their academic performance and behavior to their ability to manage stress.

Other research has shown that these long-term benefits are consistent across demographic groups — meaning that SEL instruction can support the positive development of children from diverse backgrounds and geographies.

There is also evidence that SEL supports educational equity and classroom inclusivity.  “When I talk to parents and school leaders,” Hoffman adds, “it’s clear that another benefit they see from students engaging in SEL is a sense of belonging.”

What does SEL look like in the classroom?

Educators usually integrate SEL into their curricula through both explicit instruction on the competencies and, equally importantly, through ongoing reinforcement of these skills.

Explicit SEL instruction might include lessons on how to identify and label your feelings, build your emotional vocabulary, consider other people’s perspectives and experiences, and brainstorm solutions to problems.

But then, the key to effectively teaching SEL competencies is reinforcing these lessons every day in the classroom. “It’s not about a standalone activity,” explains Dr. Mendel. “It’s about having a school culture that’s committed to engaging in social-emotional learning — where it’s infused into every day, with repetition of the lessons and skills.”

For example, while teaching children a lesson on conflict resolution is important, so is coaching them through conflicts when they happen in real time — reinforcing those skills and giving them a place to practice them.

“It’s not always activity-based,” Hoffman says. “It’s thinking about what skills they need to know and how to engage in conversations about them. When they’re doing things that cause harm to other people, you’re practicing, ‘How did that make someone else feel?’ to build empathy. It’s taking the times that they don’t do things right as teaching moments.”

SEL programs in schools are often structured across three tiers based on children’s needs. Tier one is the standard program, taught to all students, with the aim of helping them develop the competencies and prevent behavioral or emotional problems from developing. Tier two is for children who haven’t responded to tier one and show some signs of risk, such as behavioral issues, social difficulties, or academic struggles. Tier three is for students who require more intensive support, potentially through individualized counseling or a behavior intervention plan.

For parents interested in learning more specifics about how evidence-based school programs are rooted in research, the CASEL website provides a lot of information on SEL in the classroom.

How can parents support their child with SEL at home?

Parents are their child’s first teachers, and how they model and reinforce SEL competencies at home is essential to kids’ social-emotional development. And if they work in partnership, families, and schools can learn from each other about what works best for each individual child.

“I think the partnership between parents and schools is really important,” Hoffman says. “There are skills that students are learning in school that they can apply at home, and there are things at home that are working really well for parents — that they may not even define as an SEL skill — that they can communicate with teachers.”

For example, a parent could share with the teacher that taking a moment to meditate or focus on deep breaths helps their child handle emotions at home and see if there’s a way to integrate that practice into the classroom when needed.

“We have to really value the expertise of the home, as well as the school,” concludes Hoffman.

For resources on supporting social-emotional development at home, the site Confident Parents Confident Kids has a lot of helpful books, games, and more.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

What to do if you think your child needs additional SEL support

If you think your child is struggling with social-emotional competencies, the first step is to start a conversation with their teacher about evaluating their progress and considering if they need additional SEL support.

“It’s great for all kids to get SEL instruction — these are skills that will help them be successful in their lives,” explains Dr. Mendel. “But in terms of whether they might need more than what they’re getting, we’d look at how they’re functioning. How are they doing academically — is there a decline in their grades? How are they getting along socially with peers — are they getting into frequent conflict? Are they able to manage frustration, sadness, or anxiety in a way that doesn’t get in the way of their life?”

If they’re struggling with behavior or academics, getting counseling at school or setting up a behavior intervention plan may help. It’s also important to consider whether there are underlying issues affecting your child’s behavior, Dr. Mendel notes. For example, if a child is depressed and that’s making them irritable, they may lash out at other kids, and their behavior can be confused with simply lacking basic relationship skills. Or if they have ADHD, impulsivity may make it very challenging for them to manage their emotions. Getting treatment from a mental health professional for those challenges may be what your child needs to thrive.

What if you would like to see your child’s school give more priority to SEL overall? There are ways to advocate for it within your school.

“I think the best way to advocate for it in a school is to show the research and the link to improved academics,” advises Dr. Mendel. “Unfortunately, sometimes social-emotional needs can come in second because schools focus on how kids are doing academically. I think showing how the two really go hand in hand and how SEL can be effective in helping schools in the business of teaching — that’s a good way to do that advocacy.”

The CASEL website provides a great deal of additional support on how to make the case for SEL.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is social emotional learning in the classroom?

What is social and emotional learning?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a term for the way children acquire social and emotional skills. It includes things like managing difficult emotions, making responsible decisions, handling stress, setting goals, and building healthy relationships.

What happens when kids lack social and emotional learning?

How can parents help with social-emotional learning at home?

Photo by Pragyan Bezbaruah on Pexels.com https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=16349

James Donaldson on Mental Health - What to Do When Your Child Is Being Bullied — and Won’t Talk About It

Tips on signs to look for, when to intervene, and when not to

Writer: Juliann Garey

Clinical Experts: Megan Ice, PhD , Stephanie Ruggiero, PsyD

Key Takeaways

- Sudden changes in mood, sleep, or school habits can be early signs your child is being bullied — even if they say everything’s fine.
- Many kids stay silent about bullying because they’re scared, embarrassed, or worried that speaking up will only make things worse.
- Kids are more likely to open up when parents stay calm, listen, and validate their feelings, rather than jumping in to fix the problem right away
- Spotting signs of bullying when kids don’t talk
- Reasons your child might not want to talk
- Creating space for conversation
- What to do if they still won’t talk
- When to involve your child’s school — and when not to
- Tips for talking to the school
- Helping your child respond to bullying

Bullying is something we hope won’t happen to our kids — or if it does, that they’ll come to us right away. But sometimes kids don’t tell us. They may be embarrassed, afraid it will get worse if they “snitch,” or worried we’ll overreact and make things worse. Maybe your once-outgoing child suddenly wants to stay home from school or your teen seems anxious every time a notification buzzes on their phone. You know something’s going on, but they insist everything is fine.

Before acting, it helps to know what counts as bullying. Not every unkind moment between kids rises to that level. Stephanie Ruggiero, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, says bullying has three defining features: It’s intentional, it’s repeated, and there’s a power imbalance — meaning the child doing the bullying has more social, physical, or emotional power. (You can read more on what’s bullying and what’s not.)

Spotting signs of bullying when kids don’t talk

Parents are often the first to notice that something is wrong, even when their child insists everything is fine. Dr. Ruggiero says to watch for:

- Physical complaints: Stomachaches, headaches, or other ailments that pop up before school
- Avoidance: Refusing to go to school, skipping activities, or faking illness
- Changes in mood: Becoming irritable, withdrawn, or unusually anxious
- Sleep issues: Nightmares, bedwetting, or trouble falling asleep
- Missing or damaged belongings: Unexplained broken glasses, lost electronics, or ripped clothing

When bullying happens online, look for:

- Hiding phones or slamming laptops shut when you walk in the room
- Sudden deletion of social media accounts or creation of new ones
- Blocking numbers or removing friends
- Extreme emotional reactions — anger, tears, panic — after a notification
- Dramatic increases or decreases in screen time

“Those changes in behavior are your clues,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “If you notice patterns that aren’t typical for your child, trust your gut.” Imagine, for example, that your eighth grader suddenly starts asking to stay home from school and spends hours scrolling on their phone, only to come away in tears. These patterns can be unsettling, and they’re often the first clue something is happening beneath the surface.

Reasons your child might not want to talk

Megan Ice, PhD, a psychologist in the Mood Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, says that understanding why kids stay silent is often the key to helping them open up. “Before doing anything,” she says, “I try to clarify what’s actually happening — and help parents manage their own anxiety so they can just listen and validate, not jump into problem-solving right away. Sometimes that’s enough to give the child space to talk.”

Kids’ reasons for staying quiet vary widely:

- Fear the situation will get worse: Many kids have seen or experienced school interventions that backfired — for example, being labeled a “snitch,” or having their class schedule or lunch period changed in ways that make them feel singled out.
- Shame or embarrassment: Boys, Dr. Ice notes, often feel pressure to act like they don’t care. Kids teased about personal or private issues — like hygiene, bedwetting, or body image — may feel too humiliated to talk.
- Fear of consequences: Sometimes kids keep quiet because they’ve broken a rule. “If a child was bullied after sharing a nude photo or cheating on a test, they might fear punishment as much as the bullying itself,” Dr. Ice says.
- Worry about burdening parents: Some kids hesitate to bring problems home because they sense their parents are stressed. Others don’t want to make their parents feel guilty or upset.

“Identifying what’s keeping a child silent helps parents approach them with empathy,” Dr. Ice says.

Creating space for conversation

When you suspect something is wrong, your first instinct might be to press for answers — but pushing too hard can backfire. “The goal is to make it safe for your child to share,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “That starts with being calm, present, and curious.” Here are ways to encourage conversation with your child that may make them open up more easily:

- Use open-ended questions: Skip yes-or-no questions. Instead try, “If your teacher called me, what would they say about your day?”
- Validate feelings: Say things like, “That sounds really frustrating,” or “I can see why that made you sad.”
- Get creative: For younger kids, watch their play for clues. Pretend games can give hints of what’s happening at school. “If their dolls or action figures start acting out mean behavior,” Dr. Ice explains, “that can open the door for gentle questions like, ‘That sounded unkind — does that ever happen at school?’”
- Read together: Books can be a gentle way to help little kids understand and talk about bullying. The Child Mind Institute has a list of clinician-recommended books on bullying. Dr. Ruggiero also recommends checking out the American Psychological Association’s Magination Press, which publishes psychologist-written books for kids on a range of topics. You can search their site by topic and age group to find books that fit your child’s needs.
- Communicate through writing: Older kids who struggle with verbal expression might be more comfortable writing you a note, sending a text, or even using a simple emoji to show how they feel. 
- Take advantage of side-by-side moments: Talk in the car, while walking the dog, or during another low-pressure activity. This works especially well with tweens and teens who may be hesitant to let parents in.

Avoid overreacting, panicking, interrupting and/or rushing them, or minimizing their experience. “If parents stay calm, it shows kids they can handle hard news,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “That makes kids much more likely to come to you again.”

What to do if they still won’t talk

If your child continues to shut down despite your efforts, Dr. Ice says the next step depends on what you’re seeing. “If there’s concrete evidence — like hurtful messages, damaged belongings, or visible injuries — it’s worth bringing in support,” she says. “Often the school counselor is the best first call, because they know the teachers, the social dynamics, and can quietly monitor what’s happening day-to-day.”

If your child refuses to meet with a counselor at school — maybe because they’re worried about confidentiality or being seen in that office — an outside therapist can help. “Therapy gives kids a private space to process what’s happening,” Dr. Ice adds, “and can still include coordination with the school.”

With younger children, the classroom teacher might be the right starting point, since that teacher sees all of their interactions. In middle and high school, the counselor usually has the best overview of what’s happening across classes and social settings.

When to involve your child’s school — and when not to

Many parents might be surprised to hear that involving the school may not always be the best solution for their child. “I’m often cautious about contacting schools without the child’s explicit permission, especially for middle or high schoolers,” Dr. Ice says. “If they don’t feel part of the plan, it can make things worse.”

Dr. Ice says that sometimes the child is open to limited communication with the school — for instance, agreeing to ask for more supervision at recess or using a different bathroom if that’s where the bullying happens.

Dr. Ice adds that a good rule of thumb is to involve the school when there’s a clear safety risk, repeated targeting, or when the bullying affects your child’s functioning — but to proceed more cautiously when it’s a one-time social conflict or when your child strongly resists.

“It also helps to stay curious,” Dr. Ice explains. “Sometimes parents only hear one side, and it turns out their child is doing something — like humming or joking constantly — that’s irritating peers. The goal isn’t to blame them, but to understand the full picture so you can plan the right response.”

Tips for talking to the school

When you do contact the school, frame the conversation as collaborative: You’re working together to solve a problem, not pointing fingers. Share the facts you’ve gathered, bring any screenshots or documentation, and ask what steps they can take to keep your child safe.

“If the situation doesn’t improve, escalate gradually — from teacher, to counselor, to principal, to superintendent, if necessary,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “And know your school’s anti-bullying policy so you can reference it when you’re asking for help.” Remember that schools are still responsible for addressing bullying that happens off-campus if it affects a child’s ability to learn or feel safe at school.

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

Helping your child respond to bullying

Parents often struggle to know when to step in and when to let kids handle things themselves. “If your child’s safety is at risk, if the bullying is persistent, or if they ask for help — you step in,” Dr. Ruggiero says. “For more typical social conflicts, you can coach from the sidelines, offering ideas and encouragement while letting them practice handling things on their own.”

When helping a child plan their own response to bullies, Dr. Ice suggests walking through real-life situations together. “If they’re worried about lunchtime, talk about where they’ll sit, who they can join, and what they’ll do if someone whispers or posts something unkind. Having that script in mind — even simple phrases like ‘I don’t want to talk about that’ — makes it easier to cope in real time.”

Shifting a child’s response can sometimes make a difference. “If we can help a child respond more neutrally instead of with tears or anger, it often takes away the payoff for the bully,” she explains. For example, if a child tends to cry or lash out, have them practice staying calm and asking for a bathroom break so they can regroup. “Or, she says, they can simply turn and walk away. It’s not about pretending not to care — it’s about learning to manage those big feelings in a private, safer space so the bully doesn’t get that reaction they’re looking for.”

Dr. Ice sums it up this way: “The best approach depends on your child’s readiness. The more we include them in decisions and problem-solving, the more empowered they feel — and that confidence is often what ultimately reduces the bullying.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my child is being bullied if they won’t talk about it?

Watch for changes that don’t fit your child’s usual patterns — like frequent stomachaches before school, damaged belongings, sleep issues, or mood shifts. Kids who are bullied online might hide their phones, delete social media accounts, or react emotionally to notifications. Trust your instincts if something feels off.

What are my options if the school ignores bullying reports?

How do I encourage my child to open up about bullying?

Can bullying affect a child long-term if it isn’t addressed?

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/james-donaldson-on-mental-health-what-to-do-when-your-child-is-being-bullied-and-wont-talk-about-it/

James Donaldson on Mental Health - The Intersection of Technology and Mental Health: A Double-Edged Sword

In today's fast-paced world, technology has become an inseparable part of our lives. From smartphones to wearable devices, tech innovations are shaping how we live, work, and even manage our mental health. However, this relationship is complex and multifaceted, often described as a double-edged sword. On one side, technology offers unprecedented opportunities for mental health support and treatment. On the other, it poses new challenges and risks. Let's delve into this fascinating intersection and explore both the benefits and drawbacks of technology in the realm of mental health.

Table of Contents

- Introduction
- The Bright Side: How Technology Enhances Mental Health
- The Dark Side: Technology's Impact on Mental Health
- Striking a Balance: Tips for Healthy Tech Use
- Conclusion
- FAQs

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Click Here For More Information About James Donaldson

Click here to follow James Donaldson's Blog

The Bright Side: How Technology Enhances Mental Health

Technology has dramatically transformed the landscape of mental health care, offering numerous benefits that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Here are some ways technology is enhancing mental health:

Teletherapy and Online Counseling

One of the most significant advancements is the rise of teletherapy and online counseling services. Platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace have made therapy more accessible than ever, allowing individuals to connect with licensed professionals from the comfort of their homes. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those living in remote areas or with mobility challenges.

Mental Health Apps

There are now thousands of apps designed to support mental wellness. Apps like Headspace and Calm provide guided meditation and mindfulness exercises, while others like Moodfit and Happify offer tools for tracking mood and managing stress. These digital tools empower individuals to take control of their mental health daily.

Access to Information and Support Communities

The internet serves as a vast repository of mental health information. Websites, forums, and online support groups provide a platform for sharing experiences and advice. This access helps reduce the stigma around mental health issues and fosters a sense of community and understanding.

The Dark Side: Technology's Impact on Mental Health

Despite its many benefits, technology also presents several challenges that can negatively impact mental health. Let's explore some of these concerns:

Social Media and Comparison Culture

While social media connects us, it can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Constant exposure to carefully curated images and lifestyles can lead to unhealthy comparisons and pressure to live up to unrealistic standards.

Information Overload and Anxiety

The digital age has ushered in an era of information overload. Constant notifications, emails, and news updates can lead to stress and anxiety. The pressure to stay connected and responsive can be overwhelming, affecting mental well-being.

Screen Time and Sleep Disruption

Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can disrupt sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to insomnia and fatigue, which can exacerbate mental health issues.

Striking a Balance: Tips for Healthy Tech Use

Finding a balance between leveraging technology for mental health benefits and mitigating its risks is crucial. Here are some tips to help maintain a healthy relationship with technology:

Set Boundaries

Create tech-free zones and times in your day to disconnect and recharge. Consider implementing a digital detox routine where you limit screen time, especially in the evenings.

Be Mindful of Social Media Use

Curate your social media feeds to include positive and inspiring content. Unfollow accounts that trigger negative feelings and engage with communities that support your well-being.

Prioritize Real-Life Connections

While online interactions are valuable, nurturing face-to-face relationships is equally important. Make time for in-person activities and conversations to foster deeper connections.

Conclusion

The intersection of technology and mental health is indeed a double-edged sword. While technology offers valuable tools and resources that enhance mental health care and support, it also presents challenges that require mindful management. By understanding both sides of the coin and adopting healthy tech habits, we can harness the power of technology to improve our mental well-being without falling into its pitfalls.

FAQs

What are some popular mental health apps?

Popular mental health apps include Headspace, Calm, Moodfit, and Happify, among others. These apps offer various features like guided meditation, mood tracking, and stress management tools.

How can I limit the negative effects of social media on mental health?

To limit negative effects, be selective about the content you consume, set time limits on social media use, and engage with positive and supportive communities.

What is teletherapy, and how does it work?

Teletherapy involves receiving mental health counseling remotely through video calls, phone calls, or messaging. It provides a convenient and accessible way to receive therapy from licensed professionals.

https://standingabovethecrowd.com/the-intersection-of-technology-and-mental-health-a-double-edged-sword/