Family therapy may help child’s behaviour

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 1 in 10 US children suffers with a mental illness serious enough to affect daily life.

Now, experts are promoting the benefits of involving the whole family, particularly parents, in counselling and psychotherapy.

One example quoted is of a 10-year-old boy who became so anxious that he no longer wanted to play baseball, speak in class or sleep alone.

After 16 weeks of treatment including his parents—who have learnt to change some of their own behaviour patterns—he now sleeps on his own, is more confident at school and at sport.

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Studies show that children’s anxiety is influenced by the environment around them, including home life. Whilst not always the cause, family can worsen mental health issues.

Therapy that involves the parents can help them to understand what their child is going through, and to learn positive strategies for helping.

Read the full article: Family therapy may help with child’s behavior